Proposal Engineer - Bids and Estimations

Title: Proposal Engineer - Bids & Estimation Pay Rate: Flexible and Dependent on Experience Hours: 4/10 Workweek Location: Greater Portland Oregon Area Type: Full Time Direct Hire About Our Client Our client is an established manufacturer within the aerospace and defense industry, supporting complex programs through advanced engineering and precision manufacturing solutions. With a strong focus on quality, innovation, and operational excellence, they provide critical components and systems for highly regulated environments. Their team-driven culture and commitment to continuous improvement have made them a trusted partner across the industry. About the Role As a Proposal Engineer - Bids & Estimating, you will support aerospace and defense business development efforts by preparing technically accurate estimates, proposals, and bid packages. You will collaborate with engineering, operations, suppliers, and customers to analyze RFQs, evaluate manufacturing requirements, and develop detailed cost and pricing models for advanced composite manufacturing programs. What you will be doing:Review and analyze customer RFQs, engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.Develop cost estimates using pricing models, labor analysis, and manufacturing data.Prepare technically accurate proposal packages, response letters, and bid documentation.Support internal pricing reviews and present estimates to stakeholders.Communicate with customers and suppliers to clarify technical and manufacturing requirements.Track proposal status from submission through award decision.Capture proposal feedback, pricing trends, and competitive intelligence to support continuous improvement.Collaborate with Marketing Engineering, Program Management, Operations, and Engineering teams.Maintain high standards of quality, accuracy, and regulatory compliance throughout the proposal process. About You You are a technically driven engineering professional with strong analytical and estimating skills. You excel at interpreting technical documentation, supporting proposal development, and collaborating across teams to deliver accurate and competitive aerospace manufacturing proposals. Required Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Engineering.Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints.Knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and cost-estimating methodologies.Strong technical writing and communication skills.Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and project documentation tools.Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.Collaborative approach with strong attention to detail and quality. Preferred Qualifications:Experience with CAD software such as SolidWorks, CATIA, AutoCAD, or Creo.Experience supporting aerospace, defense, or advanced composite manufacturing programs.Familiarity with composite manufacturing processes and aerospace-grade materials.Experience supporting proposal development or estimating within regulated manufacturing environments. Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the US. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment Visas. About Cinder Cinder is a people-first staffing and recruiting company committed to creating workplaces where employees feel valued, supported, and engaged. Our mission is to leverage our power as a recruiting and consulting company to build workplaces where people thrive. Backed by our ISO 9001 certification, we deliver high-quality staffing solutions, and our clients have rated us over 100% for multiple quarters. Join us and be part of a team that makes a real impact!