Proposal Engineer

Methods Machine Tools, Inc. supplies high-quality, high-precision machine tools and automation solutions, and designs integrated custom machining processes and systems. Headquartered in Sudbury, Mass., and in operation since 1958, Methods provides an end-to-end portfolio of best-in-class products, engineering, service, parts, training, and integration. The company has more than 300 employees, nine technology centers, one high-precision machining center, and has installed in excess of 45,000 machines throughout North America.

About the role

We are seeking a skilled and innovative Proposal Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will create automation proposals using systems such as 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 develop clearly defined, detailed, and documented proposals and cost budgets. 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 in a highly technical, fast-paced, and dynamic work environment.

Responsibilities

• Cost Estimating and Proposal Development
  • Work collaboratively to develop viable automation solutions with 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.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Prepare Technical and Commercial Proposals
  • 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.

Requirements

• 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.
• Education and Experience
  • Associate degree in mechanical engineering technology required; bachelor’s degree in engineering preferred.
  • 3-5 years of related experience required.

Benefits

• Excellent compensation
• Medical benefits
• 401(k)
• Vacation, sick, and holiday pay
• Tuition assistance
• A long history of stability and growth

Pay

$91,813.07 – $123,437.11 per year

Schedule

Travel up to 25%