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Proposal Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The Proposal Engineer is the champion for the development of technical solutions and the cost estimates for those solutions. The Proposal Engineer must work effectively with the sales team, other ...

Senior Proposal Engineer

Utica, MI · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Senior Proposal Engineer Location: Shelby Township, MI Job Type: Direct Hire Wright Technical Services is supporting a leading global automation and manufacturing organization in their search for a ...

Senior Proposal Engineer

Utica, MI · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Senior Proposal Engineer Location: Shelby Township, MI Job Type: Direct Hire Wright Technical Services is supporting a leading global automation and manufacturing organization in their search for a ...

SUMMARY Responsible for applying product knowledge as well as technical and engineering knowledge ... proposals to customers. * Participates in Sales meetings. * Participates in Quality meetings ...

SUMMARY Responsible for applying product knowledge as well as technical and engineering knowledge ... proposals to customers. * Participates in Sales meetings. * Participates in Quality meetings ...

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Showing results 1-20

Proposal Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$52.3K

$86.9K

$112K

How much do proposal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for proposal engineer in Michigan is $86,861.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,900.00 and $99,400.00 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 popular job titles related to Proposal Engineer jobs in MI?

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

Infographic showing various Proposal Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 40% In-person, and 60% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,861 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Senior Proposal Engineer

Dürr AG

Southfield, MI • On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Your Tasks:
  • The Proposal Engineer is the champion for the development of technical solutions and the cost estimates for those solutions. The Proposal Engineer must work effectively with the sales team, other departments, and outside vendors to gather accurate information as needed to complete the estimation and proposal packages on time.
  • Applying engineering expertise, with focus on controls engineering, as well as mechanical engineering, integration of communication controls, and motion technology, needed to operate automation in coating / dispensing applications.
  • Develop application technical solutions as they apply to customer requests.
  • Support Sales and Project Management departments in customer meetings
  • Review customer specifications and be able to write clarifications regarding those specifications.
  • Create work scopes for contractor bidding and hold contractor bid meetings
  • Develop the proposals package (Calculation and Bid Text support Information related to hardware)
  • Develop general level 1 milestone schedules/time-lines, via MS Project, for the proposed solutions
  • Develop general manpower plans for internal labor costs required for the execution of the specific project coinciding with the Level 1 milestone schedule.
  • Conduct contractor site walk through’s as required to ensure proper contractor costs are captured for a specific proposal.
Your Skills:
  • BS in engineering is preferred, or a minimum of 5 years’ experience in automation with focus on controls concepts, mechanical concepts and robotics concepts within the automotive / Tier 1 coating industry, and cost estimation experience is a plus.
  • Experienced in working with installation contractors
  • SAP experience and / or German language skills an advantage, but not a must
  • Good working knowledge of MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, AutoCAD
  • Knowledge of robotic and machine automation used in the coating industry
  • Knowledge of electrical and mechanical engineering and control systems
  • Paint and robotic industry processes and best practices
  • Knowledge of automobile manufacturer specifications
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple proposals at one time
  • Ability to prioritize and manage your own workload
  • Negotiation skills, team oriented, self starter
  • Able to lead or follow, as appropriate for any situation
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