Senior Proposal Engineer

Job Description Senior Proposal EngineerLocation: Shelby Township, MIJob Type: Direct HireCompensation: $96,000-$130,000/yearWright Technical Services is supporting a leading global automation and manufacturing organization in their search for a Senior Proposal Engineer to join their Assembly Pre-Sales Applications team.This role is responsible for developing manufacturing and assembly automation concepts that evolve into fully operational production systems for major industrial customers. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in automation, manufacturing systems, proposal development, and engineering estimation, along with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally to deliver innovative and cost-effective solutions.This opportunity is ideal for someone who enjoys conceptual engineering, customer interaction, and helping shape complex automation systems from early-stage RFQs through final proposal submission.Job DescriptionReview and analyze customer RFQs, technical specifications, and project requirements to determine feasibility and alignment with internal capabilitiesDevelop conceptual manufacturing and assembly automation solutions for customer applicationsCreate detailed cost estimates, engineering proposals, conceptual layouts, and time studies for assigned opportunitiesSupport engineering change proposals and revisions throughout the quoting processPrepare technical and financial justifications for proposed solutions using internal cost modeling and vendor quotationsParticipate in customer meetings, technical reviews, and proposal presentations as neededCollaborate closely with engineering, sales, manufacturing, and project management teams to ensure alignment on scope, budget, and feasibilityDevelop innovative and cost-effective automation concepts within defined customer and project constraintsManage multiple active proposals simultaneously while maintaining deadlines and deliverable schedulesSupport sales and marketing efforts through technical presentations, customer engagement, and internal training activitiesStay current on emerging automation technologies, manufacturing trends, and industry advancements to improve proposal competitivenessRequirementsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical discipline10+ years of experience in engineering, proposal development, estimating, or automation system design within an industrial or manufacturing environmentStrong experience developing conceptual manufacturing or assembly system solutionsProven ability to lead proposal efforts from concept development through final submissionWorking knowledge of mechanical systems, controls engineering concepts, and industrial automation technologiesExperience creating project estimates, conceptual layouts, and technical proposals for manufacturing customersStrong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to interface directly with customers and cross-functional teamsAbility to manage multiple priorities and deadlines within a fast-paced environmentExperience supporting highly automated manufacturing systems and lean manufacturing environments is strongly preferredUnderstanding of controls hardware, automation equipment, and manufacturing technologies preferredPreferred BackgroundCandidates with experience in the following environments or technologies may be particularly well aligned:Industrial automation and system integrationAutomated assembly systemsRobotic manufacturing systemsAutomotive or heavy manufacturing environmentsManufacturing process developmentCapital equipment proposals and estimatingLean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives