K-12 Bid Specialist

BROAD FUNCTION AND SCOPE OF POSITION:

The K-12 Bid Specialist manages, processes, and supports K-12 bid activity end-to-end, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant submissions. Reporting to the Bid Manager, this role plays a vital part in analyzing K12 bids and RFPs, communicating pricing and product information, assisting sales teams, and developing documentation to strengthen proposal quality and competitiveness.
This position contributes directly to sales growth and manufacturer success by ensuring data-driven, compliant, and strategically aligned bid submissions across multiple regions.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Review, analyze, and process K-12 bids and RFPs for accuracy and compliance within deadlines.
• Follow standardized bid principles and K-12 terminology to ensure consistent and accurate submissions.
• Collaborate with the sales team, manufacturers, and distributors to communicate pricing, specifications, and product information.
• Assist with bid coding, matching bid specifications to applicable items in our portfolio.
• Manage commodity reporting and coordinate monthly balance reports for commodity clients.
• Maintain current knowledge of K-12 foodservice trends and legislative updates to enhance bid alignment.
• Partner with sales teams to gather and analyze bid and competitive data, identify opportunities, and support new business generation.
• Support various production phases of proposals, ensuring formatting, proofing, and quality control for final submissions.
• Monitor proposal compliance and maintain consistent documentation throughout the bid cycle.
• Provide administrative and planning support for K-12 food shows and events.
• Contribute to the completion of team goals in a collaborative environment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong written and verbal communicator who can adapt across audiences.
• Highly detail-oriented with exceptional accuracy and follow-through.
• Critical thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Able to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Flexible, adaptable, and proactive in changing circumstances.
• Organized and capable of managing multiple priorities.
• Self-motivated and accountable with strong interpersonal skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office 365, SharePoint, and Adobe Acrobat.
• Experience in K-12 foodservice, bids, proposals, or estimating is strongly preferred.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or GED required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in bids, proposals, or K-12 industry roles highly desired.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

• Typical work schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.
• Office setting with hybrid model to work from home and office.
• Standard office physical demands (sitting for extended periods, repetitive hand motions); standing-desk options available.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Supplemental Coverage: Short- and long-term disability options.
• Retirement Planning: 401(k) plan
• Paid Time Off: Vacation, holidays, and personal time.
• Workplace Perks: Snacks, coffee, and sample tastings.

Who We Are

Your Bridge to Success | Why Our People Love Affinity Group

Affinity Group is one of the fastest-growing food sales and marketing agencies in North America. We drive market demand and penetration for our clients across the foodservice and retail fresh food verticals through a consultative, relationship-focused approach.

Founded in 2014, our diverse team of sales professionals, analysts, and marketers collaborates to innovate how food brokers connect clients with opportunities. We invest in our people — the core of our success — and value those who make things happen.

Our Culture

We are a forward-thinking, people-first organization committed to growth, collaboration, and innovation. At Affinity Group, we don’t wait for opportunities — we create them. We welcome individuals who bring new perspectives, diverse experiences, and a drive to elevate our clients and team alike.

The Affinity Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.