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Proposal Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Proposal Engineering * Review customer requests for proposals, technical specifications, and interconnection requirements. * Assist with the preparation of technical proposals, compliance matrices ...

Proposal Engineering * Review customer requests for proposals, technical specifications, and interconnection requirements. * Assist with the preparation of technical proposals, compliance matrices ...

Experience with proposal preparation in the architecture/engineering/construction management industry is preferred Compensation Range: $68,159.17 - $77,896.19 STV offers the following benefits Health ...

Position Description Cost/Proposal Estimator-Engineer Company Overview: DESTACO, a Stabilus Company, is a global leader in the design and manufacture of high-performance automation, workholding, and ...

We have an opening for a Proposal Manager, Justice+Civic . We operate within a hybrid work model ... developers. * Experience leading successful SF330s and RFQ/P responses for government and public ...

Sales Engineer Location : Northbrook, IL Hire Type : Direct Hire Compensation : $90-100K + Bonus ... Prepare sales proposals, project budgets, and customer presentations * Interpret User Requirement ...

Application Engineer

Bensenville, IL · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Applications Engineer Location : Bensenville, IL Hire Type : Direct Hire Salary : $80K-$95K based ... Analyze customer needs and develop technical specifications, performance requirements, proposals ...

... Engineer, coordinating multi-discipline engineering efforts and interfacing across diverse functional teams * Experience preparing and evaluating technical bid packages and EPC proposals * Strong ...

Showing results 21-40

Proposal Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$58.1K

$96.6K

$124.5K

How much do proposal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for proposal engineer in Illinois is $96,571.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,900.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a proposal engineer?

Proposal engineers develop and review contract bids for projects based on what the client needs. As a proposal engineer, you gather supporting documentation to make the proposal more competitive. You determine costs and timelines, and may outline a variety of factors that may increase or decrease them. Projects may range from large building construction to software development. Proposal engineers must have extensive knowledge of the industry in which they work; they collaborate with sales and design staff to ensure the contract proposal accurately reflects what the company can provide the client. Some proposal engineers work for a consulting firm and are hired by companies, while others work in the sales department of a company.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a proposal engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Proposal Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, project estimation, and proposal development, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with project management software, CAD applications, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems is often required. Exceptional attention to detail, effective communication, and strong organizational skills set standout professionals apart. These competencies ensure accurate proposals, clear client communication, and the ability to meet tight deadlines in a competitive bidding environment.

What are some common challenges proposal engineers face when collaborating with sales and technical teams, and how can these be managed effectively?

Proposal Engineers often act as a bridge between sales and technical teams, which can lead to challenges such as aligning technical feasibility with client expectations and tight deadlines. Effective communication and early involvement in project discussions help ensure that all requirements are clearly understood and realistic commitments are made. Building strong relationships with both teams and maintaining detailed documentation can help manage differing priorities and streamline the proposal development process.

What is the difference between Proposal Engineer vs Sales Engineer?

AspectProposal EngineerSales Engineer
Primary RolePrepares technical proposals and bids for projectsSells products/services by demonstrating technical features
Required SkillsTechnical writing, project understanding, proposal developmentTechnical knowledge, customer communication, sales skills
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, often collaborating with engineering teamsClient-facing, often traveling to customer sites
Industry UsageCommon in engineering, manufacturing, constructionCommon in technology, industrial equipment, manufacturing

While Proposal Engineers focus on creating detailed technical proposals to secure projects, Sales Engineers engage directly with clients to promote and sell technical products or services. Both roles require technical expertise, but Proposal Engineers are more involved in documentation and bid preparation, whereas Sales Engineers emphasize customer interaction and sales processes.

How much does a proposal engineer make?

A proposal engineer's salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior proposal engineers or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with bonuses or benefits. Strong communication and technical skills are important for success in this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Proposal Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Proposal Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What job categories do people searching Proposal Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Proposal Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Proposal Engineer jobs in IL?

For Proposal Engineer jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Proposal Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $96,571 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Marketing/Proposal Manager

Clark Construction Group

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Clark is looking for an experienced marketing professional to become part of our creative, collaborative, high-energy team. As an integral part of this team, you will lead teams in creating innovative proposals, presentations, and other materials that help Clark win projects.
This is an onsite position that can be based in either our McLean, VA or Chicago, IL office. Some travel is required.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and execute winning RFQ and RFP responses, actively leading and delivering at all stages of proposal development, including writing, editing, and visual communication.

  • Organize and lead proposal teams in coordination with our operational leaders and the company'snational marketing team.

  • Build collaborative relationships with project staff to facilitate team synergy, creativity, and effectiveness.

  • Write and/or edit compelling proposal content that directly responds to questions in the RFQ orRFP.

  • Participate actively in developing RFQ or RFP responses, including writing, editing, visualcommunication, graphics, and interactive media.

  • Develop and edit presentation material for interviews. Initiate presentation preparation and critique public speaking skills.

  • Maintain company information, materials, and associated marketing databases.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree with a major in Communications, English, Business, Marketing, or other relevantfocus of study in writing, communication, and critical analysis.

  • 7+ years of relevant and successful marketing and proposal management experience with aminimum of 2 years of experience in the architecture, engineering, and/or construction (AEC) industry.

  • Proficiency using Adobe Creative Suite (primarily InDesign and Illustrator) for professional document design, layout, and production.

  • Proven experience coordinating and managing large-scale and complicated proposal efforts.

  • Strong organizational, planning, and project management skills and the ability to coordinate the activities of various team members when faced with multiple deadlines.

  • Demonstrated ability to write and communicate in a clear and compelling manner, with a strong command of English grammar and editing, as well as attention to detail.

  • A good eye for visualization, layout, and/or graphic design skills to facilitate appealing and effective communication, with experience using Adobe Creative Suite required.

  • Creativity and resourcefulness, with the ability to execute ideas effectively.

  • Confident personality with the ability to think strategically and help teams develop sound marketing, pursuit, and proposal strategies.

  • Strong work ethic and problem-solving skills with a "hands-on" and team-oriented attitude.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree.

  • Technical or professional writing background.

  • Experience managing direct reports.

The work environment and requirements described below are representative of those necessary for an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this role.

The Physical Side of the Role: Given that a good portion of your day will be spent at a desk, you should be comfortable with prolonged periods of focused work, whether it's collaborating with colleagues, analyzing data, or developing strategies. The role demands effective communication and sharp visual acuity for reviewing complex documents and performing detailed computer work. While there are times for quiet concentration, you'll also be expected to move actively throughout the office and travel occasionally to various locations, including dynamic construction sites, utilizing different modes of transportation. The ability to lift and move objects up to 10 pounds regularly, and up to 25 pounds on occasion (think a box of files or small office equipment), is also required.

Your Work Environment: Your primary workspace will be in our professional office, which has a typical, quiet-to-moderate noise and light levels. As part of your work, you may also be required to visit active construction sites. These environments are naturally more dynamic and can include exposure to outdoor weather conditions, louder noise, and moving equipment. Your safety is our top priority, and you'll be expected to follow Clark Construction's safety policies and procedures, and all applicable laws, at all locations.

Our High-Performing Culture: This is a demanding, high-performance environment. We are looking for candidates who are energized by challenge, thrive under pressure, and are prepared to do what it takes to achieve exceptional results. Success in this role requires significant commitment, including flexibility to work extended hours, especially during critical project phases or client deadlines. Beyond regular working hours, there will be occasions where business needs require your attention, particularly for time-sensitive matters or emergencies. You are expected to monitor and respond to communications (phone calls, emails, text messages) as required to address these situations effectively. Your ability to manage these expectations and be responsive when critical issues arise is key to your success in this role and our collective success as a team.

A Drug Free Workplace: Clark promotes a drug free workplace. A pre-employment drug "fitness for duty" screening is required, and the company conducts random quarterly drug "fitness for duty" tests.

Clark offers a total compensation package that includes base salary, bonus potential, and a comprehensive benefits package including health/dental/vision benefits, paid time off, retirement/401k, and Company Contribution plan. Additional benefits include life insurance, commuter benefit, short & long term disability, fitness reimbursement, FSA, tuition reimbursement, back-up daycare, tutoring & family support benefits, EAP/Work-Life assistance, and a holiday contribution program. For this role the base salary range is $90,000 - $110,000. Compensation may vary outside of this range depending on a number of factors, including a candidate's education, experience, skills, and geographic location. Base pay is one part of the Total Compensation Package that is provided to compensate and recognize employees for their work. https://www.clarkconstruction.com/careers/clark-experience