Bid Engineer - Mechanical, Electrical & Automation

Job Overview

We are a leading system integration specialist for electrical and mechanical automation systems within the Food & Drink and Parcel Distribution sectors, delivering projects at client sites across the UK and internationally.

Reporting to the Project Manager / Head of Operations, you will be responsible for the technical development, costing, and preparation of commercially viable bids and quotations for Mechanical, Electrical, and Automation projects of varying size and complexity, in compliance with current legislation and company procedures.

You will lead the pre‑contract engineering effort, working closely with Sales, Design, Procurement, and Project Delivery teams to ensure accurate scope definition, robust cost models, and smooth transition from bid to project execution.

This role is primarily office‑based in Hinckley, Leicestershire, with occasional site visits to support surveys, clarification meetings, and client presentations.

You will have a strong engineering background in mechanical, electrical, and/or automation systems, with hands‑on experience in industrial environments. You may be an experienced Project Engineer, Design Engineer, or Senior Site Engineer looking to transition into a bid‑focused, pre‑construction role.

You will be commercially aware, methodical, and comfortable interpreting specifications, drawings, and client requirements, translating them into clear, costed technical solutions.

• Develop accurate, competitive, and compliant bids and quotations for Mechanical, Electrical & Automation projects
• Interpret client specifications, drawings, and tender documentation
• Define scope, assumptions, exclusions, and risk allowances
• Liaise with Design, Procurement, Manufacturing, and Installation teams during bid development
• Support Sales with technical input for client meetings and presentations
• Conduct site surveys and technical clarification visits where required
• Prepare handover documentation to Project Delivery teams upon contract award
• Work within Elmleigh QMS, Health & Safety, and Brand Values

• Hinckley, Leicestershire
• Occasional UK client site visits

• 5+ years’ experience in industrial mechanical, electrical, or automation engineering
• Experience with in Food & Beverage, Logistics, or Distribution environments desirable
• Prior exposure to estimating, scope definition, or pre‑contract engineering advantageous

• Strong technical literacy and commercial awareness
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Methodical, organised, and detail‑focused
• Confident working with multidisciplinary engineering teams

• NVQ Level 3, HNC/HND, or equivalent in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (Required)
• SSSTS (Desirable)
• Electrical qualifications (18th Edition, AM2, I&T) advantageous but not essential