Job Title: Proposals Engineer

Location: Woodmead

Primary Purpose (Role):

To fully understand the client’s position and requirements, and respond with a robust solution delivered promptly as a technically compliant and commercially competitive proposal. The proposal must include a responsible contract position and highlight unique selling points. The ultimate objective is to secure contractual closure of new business for DRA.

Situated within the Business Development Department, the Proposals Engineer reports directly to the Proposals Manager. The department provides functional support services—including marketing, proposals, and new business development—across the Group to all business units, as well as regional office support where required.

Key Performance Areas (Responsibilities)

Operational

• Compile comprehensive proposal documentation in response to client enquiries, pre-qualifications, and expressions of interest.
• Ensure all proposals undergo thorough scrutiny via a risk analysis process (RAC) and secure approval to proceed from the Proposals Director.
• Coordinate a diverse team comprising various divisions, departments, partners, and subcontractors to deliver technically compliant and commercially competitive proposals.
• Review commercial conditions for projects and communicate the responsible position effectively to the client.
• Adhere to all processes and procedures as outlined in the Proposal Management Plan.
• Obtain proposal reviews and approvals from the Proposals Manager or Proposals Director.
• Conduct technical evaluations of enquiry documents, identify potential issues and deviations, and clarify these with client representatives to prevent delays.
• Facilitate the initial design and engineering of mineral processing, mining, electrical, mechanical, infrastructure, and operational solution systems in line with tender specifications and statutory requirements.
• Interpret the client’s position considering various risks and financial constraints to deliver a “fit for purpose” solution.
• Collaborate with other managers to ensure client requirements are achievable.
• Negotiate contract terms with support from the Proposals Manager, Commercial Manager, and General Manager.
• Handover project requirements and contract terms to the Divisional Manager and relevant engineers.
• Provide ongoing support to the project team during and after project award.
• Offer technical and commercial assistance to other proposal team members as needed.
• Support Department Management in achieving targets.
• Ensure regular follow-up on submitted proposals.
• Manage stakeholder relationships effectively.
• Assist with on-the-job training and development of trainee team members.

Database & Systems

• Maintain up-to-date records saved in accordance with proposal procedures, including timely submission of IT sheets.
• Handover all relevant tender documentation to Projects/Study teams following contract award.
• Engage administrative personnel and peers as per prescribed proposal processes to finalise proposal documents, including formatting and audit functions.
• Manage the proposals database efficiently.

Quality & Time

• Ensure proposals incorporate the most cost-effective, industry best-practise, and innovative solutions.
• Make certain that technical and commercial project specifications are available to all personnel involved in the proposed project.
• Maintain technical awareness of emerging technologies and provide advice to proposal engineers and other departments as required.
• Produce professional write-ups, keeping bid narratives and supporting data current.

Client Relations

• Establish and nurture positive working relationships with clients and joint venture partners.
• Adopt a customer-focused approach in all interactions.
• Demonstrate respectful written and verbal communication etiquette with clients.
• Keep clients informed and updated on the status of various matters.

Personal Capabilities

• Proactively seek opportunities for growth and capability improvement.
• Take ownership of personal development.
• Value innovation and diversity of ideas.
• Exhibit high integrity and remain focused on meeting obligations.

Qualifications

• Relevant Degree or Diploma in Engineering – Essential

Experience

• Related proposals experience: 4 – 7 years – Essential
• Experience in mining, infrastructure, commercial and business development: 5 – 10 years – Advantageous
• Industry-related project implementation and studies: 5 – 10 years – Essential

Knowledge Areas

• Engineering – Essential
• Procurement – Advantageous
• Construction Management – Advantageous
• Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) – Advantageous
• Risk Management – Essential
• Commercial (Contractual & Financial) – Advantageous
• Logistics and Expediting – Advantageous

Contact information

Yolanda Swart