Tender Operations Specialist

Job Description

About Us SKYTEX is a cutting-edge startup revolutionizing aerial technology with innovative drone solutions. Founded in 2016, we specialize in developing smarter, faster, and more versatile Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) that transform industries and enhance lives. Our portfolio includes advanced surveillance and combat drones such as high-altitude multi-rotor drones, high-endurance VTOL, and fixed-wing UAVs. At SKYTEX, people are our greatest strength. We are a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative organization where every employees unique perspective contributes to our success. We foster a culture of ownership, entrepreneurial thinking, and innovation, enabling team members to grow and excel while helping us push the boundaries of drone technology. Role Objective We are seeking a strategic and experienced Tender Operations Specialist with expertise in handling defense tenders and UAV projects. This role involves managing end-to-end tender processes for defense and government projects, ensuring compliance with requirements, timely submissions, and maximizing opportunities for growth in the defense sector. The ideal candidate will play a pivotal role in tendering, cost estimation, and pre-award coordination for large-scale projects. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate costing and timely submission of bids while ensuring compliance with commercial and technical requirements. Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities Tender Management Identify, analyze, and evaluate tender opportunities from GeM Portal, MoD platforms, and other procurement channels. Analyze tender documents to identify and assess key commercial and technical requirements. Prepare a bid synopsis for internal review. Manage prequalification for new projects. Prepare, compile, and submit tender documentation, adhering to defense procurement standards and deadlines. Maintain and manage the company s GeM portal and defense procurement accounts, ensuring up-to-date registration and compliance. Respond promptly to RFPs, RFIs, and other tender-related queries, ensuring thorough documentation and communication. Cost Estimation BOQ Preparation Perform costing and estimation activities. Calculate BOQ quantities from client price schedules for supplier inquiries and price comparison. Solicit quotes from suppliers and prepare techno-commercial comparisons for review. Bid Compilation Submission Compile comprehensive bid packages, including overheads, direct and indirect costs. Prepare the loading sheet and ensure timely bid submission. Attend Pre bid meetings, bid openings and manage post-bid follow-ups and clarifications. Arrange bank guarantees and other documentation required for project execution. Collaboration Coordination Work closely with engineering, finance, legal, and other internal teams to gather technical, financial, and compliance inputs / data required for tenders and techno-commercial bid requirements. Collaborate with external stakeholders, including defense officials and clients, to address tender-specific queries and requirements. Coordinate with certification bodies and regulatory authorities to ensure approvals and licenses are valid and updated. Strategic Insights Monitor and track defense procurement trends, competitor strategies, and emerging technologies for UAVs. Conduct market research to identify opportunities and gaps, providing actionable recommendations for improving tender strategies. Develop and present reports on tender outcomes, success metrics, and areas for improvement to senior management. Process Enhancement Design and implement streamlined tendering processes to improve efficiency and success rates. Proactively identify potential risks in tender submissions and develop mitigation strategies. Ensure compliance with international defense tendering standards and offset policies when applicable. Additional Responsibilities Assist in drafting strategic partnerships with suppliers, vendors, and government entities to support tendering objectives. Organize workshops and training sessions to educate team members about defense procurement policies and procedures. Represent SKYTEX at defense exhibitions, forums, and events to promote the company s expertise and expand its network. Support post-tender processes, including contract negotiations, project handover, and client onboarding. Qualifications and Skills Educational Background : Bachelor s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field; advanced degrees are a plus. Experience : 3-7 years of proven expertise in defense and UAV tenders. Technical Knowledge : Strong understanding of UAV technologies, defense procurement platforms, and offset policies. Skills : Strong understanding of commercial and technical bid requirements. Expertise in BOQ preparation and costing. Excellent coordination skills with internal teams and external stakeholders. Ability to analyze and interpret tender documents. Knowledge of post-bid follow-ups and bank guarantees. Exceptional communication, organizational, and negotiation abilities with high attention to detail. Tools : Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, estimation tools/software and project management software. Advantageous Skills : Familiarity with international tendering processes and knowledge of defense systems. Working Conditions This is a full-time position based in Bangalore or Delhi. Salary and Benefits Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Health insurance and wellness programs. Paid time off, holidays, and flexible working options. Access to professional development programs, certifications, and growth opportunities. Application Process To apply, submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience for this role via the careers page here .