Company Overview
Fives Services Southern Africa, a key player in industrial engineering and service solutions, is seeking a dedicated Proposal Engineer to join its team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. With over 200 years of industrial innovation, Fives is committed to shaping a sustainable future by supporting customers in aluminium smelting and other heavy industrial sectors. Our South African operations serve both local and regional markets, including Mozambique, with a strong focus on project execution, engineering excellence, and parts sourcing.

Role Purpose
The Proposal Engineer will support the Key Account Managers by preparing detailed proposals and cost estimations for a range of industrial projects. These include new installations, equipment modernization, technical service offerings, and major equipment repairs. This position is ideal for an individual who combines technical expertise with commercial awareness and enjoys contributing to strategic sales planning.

Key Responsibilities

Proposal Development

• Receive, analyze, and interpret tender documents and RFQ specifications.
• Liaise with external suppliers to prepare scopes of work, submit RFQs, and review supplier responses.
• Ensure all proposal deadlines are met with high-quality submissions.
• Coordinate with the Fives global network to obtain engineering and material quotations.
• Draft project and commercial proposals in collaboration with the Key Account and Proposal Manager.
• Track and support the client evaluation process through to order placement.
• Prepare project handover documentation upon award confirmation.
• Attend project close-out meetings to ensure continual improvement in proposal quality and strategy.

Technical and Project Support

• Assist the repairs division with proposal reviews, scope of work definitions, and bills of material.
• Analyze technical documents including parts lists and manuals to accurately prepare proposals.
• Conduct site inspections when necessary to better understand project requirements.

Equipment Repairs

• Work with Key Account Managers to review and respond to equipment repair RFQs.
• Align customer requirements with technically sound and cost-effective repair strategies.
• Ensure timely preparation of repair cost estimates and assist with related sales planning.

Qualifications and Experience

• A minimum of Grade 12/Matric is required.
• A tertiary qualification (National Diploma or higher) in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering is essential.
• Proven experience in project costing or estimating is required.
• Exposure to supply chain or purchasing functions is beneficial.
• Familiarity with project management principles is advantageous.
• Knowledge of heavy industrial equipment and repair processes is an asset.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Microsoft Projects is necessary.
• Ability to interpret and apply technical knowledge in proposal preparation.

Candidate Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively across departments and with external stakeholders.
• Comfortable working independently and within a collaborative team environment.
• Willingness to travel for site inspections when required.

Location
Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Join us in demonstrating that industry can do it — sustainably, effectively, and innovatively.
Be part of a team committed to excellence and continuous development.

APPLY HERE