Proposal Engineer (Product & Technical Services)

Det-Tronics (Detector Electronics, LLC); Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Generous paid time off (PTO)

Career development programs

Job summary

Det-Tronics (Detector Electronics, LLC) is seeking a Proposal Engineer in Minneapolis, MN, to lead proposal development for industrial fire and gas detection projects. In this visible role, you'll impact revenue growth by creating technically sound proposals. Ideal candidates have 3+ years in proposal engineering or technical sales, strong communication and analytical skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM tools. Join us to influence strategic decisions in a dynamic environment and enjoy a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in proposal engineering or technical sales support.
• Strong understanding of technical and commercial aspects of project proposals.
• Ability to manage multiple proposals simultaneously.

Responsibilities

• Review and interpret customer RFQs, specifications, and technical requirements.
• Develop detailed, accurate, and competitive proposals aligned to customer needs.
• Coordinate with vendors and suppliers to gather pricing, lead times, and technical inputs.

Skills

Proposal engineering

Technical sales support

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

CRM tools such as Salesforce

AutoCAD

Cost estimation tools

Job description

About Us

Det-Tronics is a $200M global technology leader in industrial life safety solutions, specializing in high-end flame and gas detection and automation control systems. As part of Spectrum Safety Solutions with 1,700 employees across 20+ countries we serve mission-critical environments in oil & gas, clean energy, marine, and infrastructure. Backed by Sentinel Capital Partners, we’re driving innovation and growth across our portfolio.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Proposal Engineer (Product & Technical Services) to play a critical role at the intersection of engineering, sales, and customer solutions. This individual will lead the development of high-quality, technically sound, and commercially competitive proposals for complex industrial fire and gas detection projects.

This is a highly visible role that directly impacts revenue growth, customer experience, and project success. You will collaborate cross-functionally to translate customer requirements into compelling, compliant, and winning proposals.

Key Responsibilities

• Proposal Development & Strategy: Review and interpret customer RFQs, specifications, and technical requirements
• Develop detailed, accurate, and competitive proposals aligned to customer needs
• Build cost estimates, pricing models, and scope definitions for engineered solutions

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Sales, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Legal to align on scope, pricing, and risk
• Engage with internal subject matter experts to ensure technical accuracy and feasibility
• Coordinate with vendors and suppliers to gather pricing, lead times, and technical inputs

• Technical & Commercial Excellence: Ensure proposals meet all technical specifications, commercial requirements, and regulatory standards
• Identify risks, gaps, and opportunities within project requirements
• Support bid reviews, internal approvals, and customer clarifications

• Project Handoff & Execution Support: Participate in project kick-off meetings to ensure seamless transition from proposal to execution
• Provide technical and commercial clarity to project teams as needed

What You Bring

Required Qualifications:

• 3+ years of experience in proposal engineering, application engineering, or technical sales support
• Strong understanding of technical and commercial aspects of project proposals
• Ability to manage multiple proposals simultaneously

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in industrial systems (fire & gas, oil & gas, automation, electrical, or similar) preferred
• Strong understanding of both technical requirements and commercial drivers in engineered solutions
• Experience developing cost estimates and structured proposals for complex projects
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple proposals and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and attention to detail
• Highly collaborative with the ability to influence across functions
• Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• CRM tools such as Salesforce
• AutoCAD, Bluebeam REV (or similar tools)
• Cost estimation and proposal development tools

Why Join Us?

• Work with a globally respected brand in life safety
• Influence strategic decisions at the executive level
• Drive innovation and transformation in a high-growth environment
• Enjoy development opportunities within a dynamic, private equity-backed company

Benefits

At Det-Tronics, we believe in taking care of our people. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with company contributions
• Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan with company match, life and disability insurance
• Time Off: Generous paid time off (PTO), holidays, and flexible scheduling options
• Professional Growth: Career development programs, training opportunities, and tuition reimbursement
• Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness resources, and global mobility support
• Ownership Culture: Participation in our Ownership Program, empowering employees to share in our success

Ready to shape the future of industrial safety? Apply now and join us in making every life safe and sound.