Applications Engineer (Sheffield)

Inspec Solutions Ltd; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Inspec Solutions Ltd in the United Kingdom is seeking an Applications Engineer / Proposals Specialist to produce detailed technical solutions and proposals for PLC and SCADA systems, and turnkey projects.

You will work with customers and sales to capture requirements, prepare quotations, cost sheets, and tenders, and coordinate with engineering teams. A background in automation and systems integration, plus strong communication, will help you succeed and advance within the team.

Qualifications

• Engineering background or experience in systems integration.
• Good understanding of PLC and SCADA systems.
• Knowledge of MIS/MES beneficial.
• Control systems and automation experience desirable.
• Strong commercial awareness and contracts.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Effective time management and planning.
• Proactive, solution-focused mindset.
• Experience with sales, proposals or CRM systems is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Produce technical proposals for PLC/SCADA, upgrades and turnkey solutions.
• Develop initial engineering concepts and accurate estimates.
• Prepare detailed quotations, tenders and supporting docs.
• Create cost spreadsheets covering hardware, software and engineering.
• Collaborate with customers, sales and engineering teams.
• Obtain supplier pricing and confirm timescales and resources.
• Support internal approvals with project managers and directors.
• Travel to customer sites for site visits when required.
• Respond to customer requirements and build strong relationships.
• Develop practical, commercially viable solutions.

Skills

Engineering background

PLC & SCADA knowledge

Proposal writing

Commercial awareness

Written & verbal communication

Cost estimation & tendering

CRM / Salesforce familiarity

Project coordination

Education

Engineering degree

Tools

Salesforce

Job description

Reporting to the Senior Proposals Manager, you will be responsible for producing detailed technical solutions and proposals, ranging from PLC and SCADA systems through to complete turnkey solutions.

You will work closely with customers and sales teams to understand project requirements and develop high-quality proposals that meet and exceed expectations. The role requires strong attention to detail, commercial awareness and excellent written communication skills.

You will also manage quotation cost spreadsheets, obtain supplier pricing and liaise with specialist engineering teams to ensure that accurate costs, timescales and engineering requirements are included within each tender.

This role would ideally suit someone with an engineering background or experience working for a systems integrator who is looking to transition into an applications engineering or solution architect position.

What you’ll be doing:

• Producing technical proposals for PLC and SCADA systems, system upgrades, training, Service Level Agreements, digital solutions, Management Information Systems, manpower support projects and full turnkey solutions
• Developing initial engineering concepts and accurately estimating proposed solutions
• Preparing detailed quotations, tenders and supporting technical documentation
• Creating quotation cost spreadsheets covering hardware, software and engineering components
• Working closely with customers and sales teams to gain a comprehensive understanding of project requirements
• Obtaining pricing from suppliers and liaising with engineering departments to confirm accurate timescales and resource requirements
• Supporting the internal approval process with Project Managers, the Head of Operations and Company Directors
• Travelling to customer sites to undertake technical site visits where required
• Responding promptly to customer requirements and maintaining strong, professional relationships
• Developing practical, commercially viable solutions that meet and exceed client expectations

What we’re looking for:

• A background in engineering, automation, process control systems or systems integration
• A good understanding of PLC and SCADA systems
• Knowledge of Management Information Systems or Manufacturing Execution Systems would be beneficial
• Control systems and automation experience is highly desirable
• Strong commercial awareness and an understanding of commercial contracts
• Excellent attention to detail and a high level of accuracy
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Effective time management, organisation and planning abilities
• A proactive, self-motivated approach and a positive “can do” attitude
• A commitment to solution selling and meeting client requirements
• Experience working within regulated industries is highly desirable
• Previous experience in sales, proposals or CRM systems such as Salesforce would be advantageous, but is not essential
• Flexibility and a willingness to develop new skills
• Opportunity to work on varied, technically challenging projects
• Be part of a close knit and collaborative team of engineers
• A chance to make a tangible difference and be part of our exciting future
• We have a very supportive leadership team who promote career progression
• Competitive salary and benefits package

The Inspec Solutions Team has experience across all our sectors and many electrical installations. Get in touch with one of the team to see how Inspec Solutions can assist you with your project requirements.