Bid Writer job description

This page details everything you need to know about the Bid Writer role. Here you'll find the job description, salary information and how to approach bid recruitment.

What does a Bid Writer do?

Bid Writers complete PQQs (pre-qualification questionnaires), research and prepare high-quality tenders. 

Working closely with Bid and Proposals Managers, Directors and Designers, they play a crucial part in the tendering process. Writers are key to securing funding, resource or the right to provide services.

Key responsibilities

While the job description might change depending on the business and industry, the day-to-day responsibilities include:

  • Work closely with the bid management team to ensure aligned messaging across the business
  • Review questions and create a plan for answers to ensure the creation of winning bids
  • Complete pre-qualification questionnaires
  • Write content for public and private sector bids, ensuring they comply with the specification
  • Review, edit and write supplementary documents for the bidding process
  • Maintain and expand the knowledge base, including design templates, bid evidence, case studies, team member CVs


Skills and requirements

The ideal candidate will have the following skill sets and experiences on their CV:

  • Experience within a relevant sector
  • Track record in bid writing and understanding of the tendering process
  • Excellent communication and writing abilities
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy
  • Proven experience working with external stakeholders
  • Organised individual with the ability to prioritise tasks and work to deadlines
Salary expectations

What is a Bid Writer paid?

While pay can vary based on location, business and industry, the average Bid Writer can expect a salary of £40,000 - £55,000.

  • London: £45,000 - £60,000
  • Manchester: £35,000 - £50,000
Bar chart comparing lower salary and day rate figures, with salary reaching £55K and day rate up to £500.

Career path & progression

A variety of exciting businesses employ Bid Writers. You will find opportunities in the real estate and construction, professional services, and business services sectors are often present. There has also been a rise in bid consultancies searching for more Bid Writers to support their clients.

Looking beyond the Bid Writer job title, explore some of the career progression opportunities.

After some time in the company, your entry-level Bid Writer role might develop into a Senior role. You’ll demonstrate that you have gained enough experience, skills and knowledge of the company to progress. The role includes additional responsibilities such as editing, proofing, and managing how proposals are written. You will work with the business development team to make sure they know the client's main priorities and concerns.

With your experience in the bidding sector, you can adapt your skills and experience to a more senior role, such as a Bid Manager. In this role, you will be responsible for conducting audits and researching resources. The job title ensures that the type of proposals and bids produced are high quality and effective. You'll also gain exposure to team management.