Lead Proposal Engineer

Bilfinger; Kuwait City; On-site; KWD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in Kuwait seeks a Lead Proposal Engineer to spearhead proposal development for maintenance and brownfield projects. This role requires strong technical expertise, team leadership, and client engagement to ensure high-quality proposals that meet client needs and profitability targets.

Qualifications

• 10-15 years of experience in Power & Utilities and Oil & Gas sectors.
• Experience with major clients in Kuwait.

Responsibilities

• Lead proposal development from client engagement to proposal submission.
• Manage a team of proposal/project engineers.
• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Technical Expertise

Project Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Project Management Tools

Job description

Job Purpose:

The Lead Proposal Engineer is responsible for leading the development and execution of proposals for maintenance and brownfield projects in production and downstream operations in Kuwait. The role involves coordinating proposal efforts, managing a team, and ensuring high-quality, competitive proposals that meet client needs while ensuring profitability.

Key Responsibilities:

Proposal Development:

• Lead the proposal development process from client engagement to the preparation of proposal documents, including scope definition, technical solution design, and cost estimation.

Technical Expertise:

• Provide technical leadership in assessing project requirements, identifying solutions, and addressing challenges to meet client specifications and industry standards.

Team Leadership:

• Manage a team of proposal/project engineers, setting clear KPIs, providing guidance, and ensuring optimal performance and timely submissions.

Risk Management:

• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments, identifying potential risks and developing mitigation strategies.

Client Engagement:

• Collaborate with sales and business development teams to understand client needs and align proposal strategies, participating in client presentations and negotiations as needed.

Cost Estimation:

• Develop accurate cost estimates considering materials, labor, equipment, subcontractors, and overhead costs, while maintaining profitability targets.

Proposal Review:

• Review proposal documents for accuracy, compliance with client requirements, and alignment with company standards.

Continuous Improvement:

• Identify opportunities for process improvements in proposal development, leveraging feedback, data analysis, and industry insights.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain detailed documentation of proposal activities and provide regular updates and reports to management.

Required Competencies:

Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; advanced degree preferred.

Experience:

• 10-15 years of experience, starting with site execution roles (e.g., project engineer, maintenance engineer, turnaround engineer) and progressing into proposal engineering in the Power & Utilities and Oil & Gas sectors, with direct experience in Kuwait.

Skills

• On-site execution experience in brownfield EPC projects.
• Strong technical expertise in maintenance and brownfield modifications.
• In-depth knowledge of Power & Utilities and Oil & Gas industry practices, technologies, and regulations in Kuwait.
• Direct experience with major clients in Kuwait (e.g., KOC, KNPC, KPC, PIC, EQUATE, Chevron, Boubyan).
• Experience with turnarounds and maintenance is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, electrical, and control systems interfaces.
• Proven leadership in proposal development and managing cross-functional teams.
• Results-oriented with a proven track record of successful proposals for major clients in Kuwait.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in project management tools and software.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Professional certifications (e.g., PMP, PE) are a plus.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a proactive team player.