We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly motivated Proposals Engineer to support our growing technology solutions company specializing in Audio-Visual (AV), Fire Alarm & Life Safety, Security Systems, Structured Cabling, Access Control, and Intrusion Detection systems.
The primary role of this position is to develop accurate, competitive, and comprehensive technical proposals and cost estimates in response to customer requirements, RFPs, and design specifications. The ideal candidate will bridge the gap between engineering, sales, and operations to ensure winning bids and successful project execution.
Key Responsibilities
Proposal Development
- Prepare detailed and professional technical proposals, quotations, and bid packages
- Review project plans, specifications, and bid documents to determine scope and requirements
- Develop Bill of Materials (BOMs), system designs, and cost estimates
- Interpret customer requirements and translate them into compliant technical solutions
System Design & Engineering Support
- Design integrated low-voltage systems including:
- Audio-Visual (AV systems)
- Fire Alarm & Life Safety systems
- Electronic Security Systems (CCTV, Intrusion Detection)
- Access Control Systems
- Structured Cabling (copper & fiber)
- Ensure designs comply with industry standards (NFPA, NEC, UL, local AHJ requirements, etc.)
- Provide value engineering options to improve cost-effectiveness and system performance
Cost Estimation & Vendor Coordination
- Solicit pricing from vendors, subcontractors, and manufacturers
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of product pricing and availability
- Analyze costs including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor services
- Ensure proposals meet company margin and profitability targets
Collaboration & Customer Support
- Work closely with Sales, Project Management, and Engineering teams
- Participate in pre-bid meetings, site walks, and customer consultations
- Provide technical clarification to customers during bidding process
- Support post-award handoff to project execution teams
Documentation & Compliance
- Ensure all proposals are complete, accurate, and submitted on time
- Maintain proposal documentation, templates, and historical data
- Follow company procedures for bid tracking and approvals
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelorโs degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Telecommunications, or related field
(Equivalent experience will also be considered)
Experience
- 3โ7+ years of experience in low voltage systems, systems integration, or proposal engineering
- Experience preparing proposals for AV, security, fire alarm, or structured cabling projects
Technical Skills
- Strong understanding of:
- AV systems design
- Fire Alarm systems (NFPA knowledge preferred)
- Access Control and CCTV systems
- Structured cabling standards (TIA/EIA, BICSI)
- Familiarity with estimating tools, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, or similar software
- Ability to read and interpret drawings, schematics, and specifications
Soft Skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- High attention to detail and organizational skills
- Ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines simultaneously
Preferred Qualifications
- NICET certification (Fire Alarm) or similar industry certifications
- BICSI certification or knowledge of cabling infrastructure
- Experience with ERP/CRM systems
- Previous experience in a system integrator or technology contractor environment
Key Competencies
- Proposal Strategy & Competitive Positioning
- Cost Analysis & Estimation
- Technical System Design
- Cross-functional Collaboration
- Time Management & Deadline Adherence
Work Environment
- Office-based
- Fast-paced environment with deadline-driven workload
- Opportunity to work on diverse, cutting-edge technology projects
Success Metrics
- Proposal accuracy and completeness
- Bid win rate
- Margin performance on awarded projects
- Timeliness of submissions