Application Engineer

IDEX; Whetstone; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

25 days annual leave

Pension scheme

Healthcare benefits

On-site facilities

Professional development

Job summary

CVI Infrared Optics, part of the IDEX MSS platform, is seeking an engineering professional to develop cost estimates and commercial proposals for complex optical projects. You will work with Commercial, Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing and Supply Chain teams to translate customer requirements into technically compliant, competitive solutions.

Ideal candidates have an engineering or STEM degree and proven experience preparing technical quotations in manufacturing.

Qualifications

• Degree qualified in Engineering or STEM.
• Experience preparing technical quotations, proposals or cost estimates within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Strong analytical, numerical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational and project management skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and ERP/MRP systems.

Responsibilities

• Review and interpret customer drawings, specifications and technical documentation to define project scope and technical requirements.
• Engage directly with customers and internal stakeholders to clarify requirements and eliminate ambiguity.
• Assess technical feasibility and determine compliance with customer specifications.
• Identify technical, commercial and supply chain risks during quotation and propose mitigations.
• Develop accurate cost estimates for products, services and projects.
• Lead complex quotation activities in collaboration with Commercial, Engineering, Purchasing and Supply Chain teams.
• Develop clear and compelling technical and commercial proposals with assumptions, costs and delivery considerations.
• Present proposal recommendations to internal stakeholders and customers as required.
• Ensure smooth transition from quotation to order fulfilment with Engineering and Manufacturing.
• Support continuous improvement to enhance quotation accuracy and win rates.

Skills

Technical quotations

Requirements interpretation

Analytical skills

Communication

Project management

Education

Engineering degree

STEM degree

Tools

ERP/MRP systems

SolidWorks

MS Office

Job description

“CVI Infrared Optics is a part of the IDEX Materials, Science and Solutions (MSS) platform. Besides our unique capabilities in manufacturing large optics from visible to longwave, we are backed by the combined capabilities of our platform. CVI offers a full spectrum of optical engineering, manufacturing, and assembly expertise. Together we can support all our customers with more engineering expertise, broader capabilities, and extensive manufacturing resources. Since 1982, CVI Infrared Optics has been manufacturing advanced optical components for high performance optronics systems. We have become the leading experts in manufacturing and integration of large optics from visible, and near infrared, to longwave infrared, that can continuously perform in extreme weather climates and harsh conditions.When you need robust optical components and assembly expertise for your mission critical application, we can provide world-class solutions.“About the Role12 month fixed term contractThis role is responsible for evaluating customer requirements, determining technical feasibility, and developing accurate cost estimates and commercial proposals that support profitable business growth and successful project delivery.Working closely with Commercial, Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing and Supply Chain teams, you will ensure customer requirements are fully understood and translated into technically compliant, commercially competitive solutions.This is an excellent opportunity for an engineering professional with strong analytical skills, commercial awareness, and a passion for solving complex technical challenges.Key ResponsibilitiesCustomer Requirements & Technical EvaluationReview and interpret customer drawings, specifications and technical documentation to define project scope and technical requirements.Engage directly with customers and internal stakeholders to clarify requirements and eliminate ambiguity.Assess technical feasibility and determine compliance with customer specifications.Identify technical, commercial and supply chain risks during the quotation process and recommend mitigation strategies.Estimating & Proposal DevelopmentDevelop accurate cost estimates for products, services and projects, including material, supplier and internal manufacturing costs.Lead complex quotation activities in collaboration with Commercial, Engineering, Purchasing and Supply Chain teams.Obtain and evaluate supplier quotations to support robust cost modelling.Develop clear and compelling technical and commercial proposals, communicating assumptions, risks, costs and delivery considerations.Present proposal recommendations to internal stakeholders and customers where required.Project Handover & Continuous ImprovementEnsure a smooth transition from quotation to order fulfilment through clear communication with Engineering and Manufacturing teams.Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance quotation accuracy, responsiveness and business win rates.Maintain accurate quotation records and supporting documentation.Market & Supplier EngagementDevelop and maintain knowledge of key customer products, applications and markets.Maintain awareness of supplier capabilities, pricing and performance.Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies and competitor activity.Attend customer visits, trade shows and industry events as required.Health, Safety & ComplianceFollow the site's comprehensive safety regulations, promptly report any risks, hazards or incidents, and ensure a safe workplace by adhering to all established protocols.Support company values, ethical conduct and integrity in all activities.Skills, Qualifications & ExperienceEssentialDegree qualified in an Engineering or STEM discipline.Experience preparing technical quotations, proposals or cost estimates within a manufacturing or engineering environment.Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.Strong analytical, numerical and problem-solving skills.Excellent written and verbal communication skills.Strong organisational and project management skills.Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple priorities.Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.Experience using ERP and/or MRP systems.DesirableDegree in Photonics, Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.Experience working with opto-mechanical components and assemblies.Knowledge of precision engineering, photonics, optics, aerospace, defence or advanced manufacturing environments.Experience using CAD software, including SolidWorks.Personal AttributesCollaborative team player with strong stakeholder management skills.Ability to influence and work effectively across cross-functional teams.Commercially aware with a focus on delivering customer value and business success.Proactive, adaptable and eager to learn new skills.Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.Willingness to travel internationally to visit customers and suppliers when required.What You'll ReceiveCompetitive salaryAnnual bonus scheme25 days annual leave plus Bank HolidaysCompany pension schemeHealthcare benefitsOn-site employee benefitsOpportunities for professional development and career progressionThis job position requires compliance with EU and/or UK Regulations. Therefore, all employees working in this capacity must meet EU and/or UK citizenship status