Proposal Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Company Description

For over 50 years, DN Solutions has built machine tools that shape the world around us, including the cars we drive, the planes we fly, and the medical devices that save lives. We develop smart machines and customized solutions that advance these essential industries. 

Are you looking to make a large impact in an evolving company?

We need your help. Apply to join our dynamic and global team that is modernizing the manufacturing industry

Job Description

The Proposal Engineer develops comprehensive technical proposals and engineered solutions that support the sale of CNC machine tools, turnkey manufacturing systems, and automation solutions. Working closely with Sales, Application Engineering, Product Management, and external suppliers, this role evaluates customer manufacturing requirements and creates technically accurate, competitive proposals that align with customer objectives and company capabilities.

The Proposal Engineer serves as a technical resource throughout the sales process by developing machining concepts, estimating project scope, coordinating supplier quotations, and preparing professional proposal documentation that supports successful business development.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop technical proposals for CNC turning centers, machining centers, turnkey manufacturing systems, and automation solutions.
• Review customer specifications, part drawings, GD&T requirements, and manufacturing processes to recommend appropriate machining solutions.
• Create machining concepts including workholding, cutting tool, fixturing, automation, and process recommendations.
• Coordinate with internal engineering teams, sales personnel, and external suppliers to obtain technical information and project quotations.
• Prepare detailed proposal documentation including technical descriptions, scope of supply, option pricing, drawings, layouts, and commercial support documents.
• Develop and maintain standardized proposal templates, option libraries, pricing tools, and technical documentation.
• Create proposal drawings, machine layouts, and concept designs using AutoCAD and other CAD software.
• Support field sales teams through customer presentations, technical discussions, webinars, and proposal reviews.
• Ensure proposals are technically accurate, commercially competitive, and delivered within established deadlines.
• Maintain current knowledge of CNC machine technology, automation solutions, tooling, workholding, and manufacturing trends.
• Collaborate with Application Engineering during project handoff to ensure proposal intent is accurately communicated through project execution.
• Assist with continuous improvement initiatives related to proposal development processes, documentation standards, and technical resources.

Job Requirements

• Associate’s degree in Machine Tool Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience.
• 5-10 years of experience in machine tool applications engineering, proposal engineering, manufacturing engineering, or related technical sales support.
• Experience developing proposals for CNC machine tools, turnkey manufacturing systems, or industrial automation solutions.
• Experience interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and customer manufacturing requirements.

Preferred Skills

• Strong understanding of CNC turning and machining center technology.
• Knowledge of machining processes, tooling, workholding, fixturing, and automation systems.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T specifications.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD; experience with SolidWorks or other 3D CAD software preferred.
• Advanced Microsoft Office skills, particularly Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong technical writing and proposal development skills.
• Excellent organizational and project management abilities with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple proposals and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong communication and presentation skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across engineering, sales, product management, and supplier organizations.
• Korean language proficiency is beneficial but not required.

Company Benefits

We offer competitive pay based on experience.

• 401(k)
• Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability
• Paid Time-Off including vacation, sick time, and Holidays.
• Employee Referral Program

Our success is driven by our team of talented, dedicated individuals working closely together to meet or exceed customer expectations. Take the next step in your career and become part of our fast-growing company.

DN Solutions America is an equal-opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, religion, or veteran status.