Job Title: Proposal Engineer
Department: Methods Automation – Sales/Application Engineering
Methods Machine Tools was established in 1958 with three employees and a handful of refurbished machines. Since then, the company has become one of the largest privately owned machine tool importers in North America.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a skilled and innovative Proposal Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for the creation of automation proposals with systems using Fanuc Robotics, CNC machines, material handling and feeding solutions, parts cleaning, post process inspection and other automation components. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to create clearly defined, detailed and documented proposals and cost budgets utilizing systems and calculators. The ideal candidate will have an understanding of mechanical systems with strong abilities in scope review, technical writing and attention to detail. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to exciting engineering projects and make a tangible impact in a highly technical, fast paced and dynamic work environment.
Duties/Responsibilities:
Cost Estimating and Proposal Development
- Work in a collaborative team to develop real world viable solutions in conjunction with the mechanical & electrical design teams, robot programming and system build teams.
- Design automation solutions from a conceptual perspective for the machine tending automation sector.
- Approach all solutions with a holistic mindset to ensure proposals are well defined and properly allocated.
- Develop detailed capital equipment cost estimates.
- Analyze labor, materials, controls, robotics, tooling, and installation costs.
- Solicit and evaluate quotations from suppliers and strategic partners.
- Maintain proposal margins consistent with company objectives.
- Review customer requests for quotes and specifications to drive risk mitigation and compliance.
- Ensure designs meet customer’s specifications and Methods Automation specifications.
- Attend closed order analysis and postmortem meetings to ensure proposed content and allocations are accurate.
- Be a change agent in the relentless pursuit of continuous improvement.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Prepare technical and commercial proposals, including:
- Scope of supply
- Functional descriptions
- System layouts
- Project schedules
- Assumptions and exclusions
- Pricing summaries
- Return on investment calculations
Technical Sales Support
- Support sales teams in customer meetings and presentations.
- Communicate automation concepts and technical solutions to customers.
- Prepare business cases and ROI analyses.
- Answer technical questions during the quotation process.
- Contribute to proposal and customer design reviews.
Project Handoff and Continuous Improvement
- Support project kickoffs after contract award.
- Transfer proposal details to engineering and project management teams.
- Join lessons-learned sessions to improve future proposals.
- Maintain estimating databases, costing tools, and proposal templates.
- Track proposal win rates and support process improvements.
Required Skills:
Technical Skills
- Knowledge of robotic automation systems and machine tending applications.
- Understanding of CNC machining and manufacturing processes.
- Ability to develop automation concepts and layouts.
- Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or Inventor.
- Knowledge of industrial controls, PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and safety systems.
- Understanding of material handling and end-of-arm tooling design.
- Ability to perform cycle time and throughput analyses.
- Experience developing cost estimates and project budgets.
Computer Skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
- Experience with ERP and CRM systems.
- Familiarity with cost estimating software and quotation tools.
- Experience using CAD platforms and layout software.
Business Skills
- Strong commercial awareness and focus on profitability.
- Ability to complete ROI and payback analyses.
- Knowledge of project planning and scheduling.
- Understanding of contract terms and proposal documentation.
Minimum Education and Experience:
- Associate degree in mechanical engineering technology required; bachelor’s degree in engineering preferred.
- 3-5 years of related experience required.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
None.
Travel Requirements:
Up to 25% travel.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to sit for extended periods and work at a computer.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to access and inspect all areas of machinery.
Additional Information
This job description is designed to provide an overview of basic skills, experiences and education required to perform the job and is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee to perform the essential functions of the job. In instances where educational degrees are required, the company will take into consideration factors such as additional experience, training, or certifications in lieu of specific educational requirements.
Methods Machine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
