Graduate / Junior / Trainee Mechanical Proposal Engineer
Richard Alan is a leading provider of metal tanks, vessels, silos, pipework and structural steelwork, with an enviable customer base expanding across the UK. With over 50 years of experience, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative engineering solutions that drive efficiency and sustainability for our clients. We are currently expanding our commercial engineering team and are looking for a motivated individual to join us as a Trainee/Junior Mechanical Proposal Engineer. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a mechanical background who wants to bridge the gap between technical engineering and commercial business development.
Job Description
The Role
As a Trainee Mechanical Proposal Engineer, you will play a key role in winning new business. You will work closely with our Senior Engineers and Sales Team to interpret client requirements, design initial concepts, and prepare accurate cost estimates and technical proposals.
No prior proposal experience is required; we are looking for potential and a mechanical mindset. You will receive full training on our systems, estimation software, and tendering processes.
Key Responsibilities
- Quotation Analysis: Review client enquiries, specifications, and drawings to understand project requirements.
- Design & Calculations: Assist in selecting appropriate mechanical equipment and perform basic calculations to ensure compliance with design specifications.
- Cost Estimation: Compile Bills of Quantities (BoQ), source prices from suppliers, and calculate labour and material costs.
- Proposal Writing: Help produce professional technical submissions and tender documents within strict deadlines.
- Collaboration: Liaise with suppliers, subcontractors, and internal departments to refine solutions.
- Handover: Assist in handing over won projects to the operations/installation team.
Who We Are Looking For
- Education: A background in Mechanical Engineering is essential. This could be a Degree, HNC/HND, or relevant Apprenticeship. Recent graduates are encouraged to apply.
- Technical Aptitude: A good understanding of mechanical principles (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics). Familiarity with CAD (AutoCAD/Revit) is an advantage but not essential.
- Numeracy: Strong mathematical skills with the ability to analyse data and costs.
- Communication: Excellent written and verbal English skills; you must be able to write clearly and professionally.
- IT Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
- Attitude: Highly organised, detail-oriented, and eager to learn. You must be able to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
