Automotive Robotics Bid & Proposal Lead

USTBC ABB Installation Products Inc.; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

ABB in Michigan is seeking an experienced Proposal Engineer to develop robot/Fn packages and automation system proposals from customer requirements through bid submission. You will interface with customers and internal teams to translate technical needs into complete automation solutions.

You will select/configure ABB robots for automotive applications, perform detailed cost estimates, and lead bid preparation, risk reviews, and contract evaluations across local and global projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgy, Automation Technology, Industrial Engineering or a related engineering field is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience developing proposals for industrial robots, automotive applications including performing cost estimates.
• Conducting Proposal Risk Reviews at Local & Global Levels; performing global and customer relations.
• Familiarity with industrial robot selection and configuration, robot controllers, software options, safety options and robot accessories, automotive robotics technology, material handling, dispense, machine tending, arc welding, assembly, spot welding and vision.
• Microsoft Excel proficiency with functions and prior experience using SAP is required.
• Ability to travel up to 25%, domestic and international travel.

Responsibilities

• Develop robot and function package proposals and develop robotic automation system proposals from customer requirements through final bid submission; strong understanding of robot configuration, application requirements, project risk assessment and commercial contract management.
• Serve as the primary interface between customers and internal teams, translating technical requirements into complete automation solutions.
• Select and configure ABB robots based on application requirements, including payload, reach, mounting, controller, software, safety, application options, dress packages, and other robot accessories. Create system concepts, layouts, process designs, and alternative technical solutions for automotive applications when required.
• Perform detailed cost estimating for robots, application equipment, engineering, mechanical, electrical, controls, and fluid power systems, including labor and material costs.
• Conduct target cost and target price analyses using historical robot and project data and market intelligence; lead bid preparation, documentation, risk reviews, and contract evaluations for both local and global projects.
• Establish competitive pricing strategies while ensuring profitability through gross margin and net margin analysis; review commercial terms including shipping, invoicing, payment schedules, warranties, taxation, and cross-border labor considerations.
• Understanding of industrial automation and robotic systems, particularly automotive manufacturing and assembly; drive continuous improvement of estimating, tendering, and proposal development processes.
• Cost estimating for robot products, function packages, mechanical, electrical, and fluid power systems; machine cycle time analysis and production throughput calculations; Performance metrics such as OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) and Gross/Net Jobs Per Hour (JPH).
• Experience with Industry 4.0 technologies; knowledge of machine learning applications in manufacturing.

Skills

Proposal development

Interpersonal communication

Analytical thinking

Project coordination

Education

Electrical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Automation Technology

Industrial Engineering

Tools

Excel

SAP

Job description

ABB in Michigan is seeking an experienced Proposal Engineer to develop robot/Fn packages and automation system proposals from customer requirements through bid submission. You will interface with customers and internal teams to translate technical needs into complete automation solutions.

You will select/configure ABB robots for automotive applications, perform detailed cost estimates, and lead bid preparation, risk reviews, and contract evaluations across local and global projects.