Proposal Engineer

Ingersoll Cutting Tools is one of the world's leading suppliers of metal cutting tooling systems and an integral member of the IMC Group of Companies, a distinguished corporate holding of Berkshire Hathaway, with over 130 subsidiaries in 60 countries around the world. Ingersoll's US operations are housed on our state-of-the-art manufacturing and marketing campus in Rockford, Illinois. We are currently accepting applications for a Proposal Engineer.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Prepare accurate Proposals/quotes for individual tools and tooling packages.

• Assist in designing custom tooling solutions, including indexable and solid carbide tools, under the guidance of senior proposal engineers.
• Review customer part drawings to identify basic geometric features and recommend standard or slightly modified cutting tool options.
• Select appropriate cutting tool grades and geometries using company product catalogs and digital tooling configurators for common workpiece materials.
• Develop basic 3D models and 2D manufacturing drawings of proposed tool assemblies and holders using CAD software (such as Creo or AutoCAD).
• Gather technical and pricing data required to compile comprehensive technical proposals and cost estimations for sales teams.
• Perform foundational machining calculations, including speeds, feeds, metal removal rates, and basic cycle time estimates under supervision.
• Support field sales engineers by clarifying technical product questions and preparing standardized engineering data sheets for customer presentations.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Degree: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a closely related discipline; OR an Associate degree in Mechanical Design Technology, Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD), or Precision Machining.
• Alternative Pathway: A high school diploma or equivalent, combined with a completed Machining Apprenticeship, Tool & Die Certification, or CNC Programming/Operation certification, plus 2-5 years of practical machine shop floor experience.
• Experience: 2 to 5 years of experience. Strong preference given to candidates with internship, co-op, or academic project experience within a manufacturing facility or machine shop environment.

Relevant experience in one or more of the following areas:

• CNC machine setup and operation
• Process planning in a machining environment
• Quality control and inspection of machined components
• CNC machine programming
• Product/Project management in an industrial setting
• Basic proficiency with 3D modeling and 2D drafting software (such as Creo preferred, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, or NX) to create simple tool assemblies and layouts.
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, including a foundational understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Comfort with fundamental manufacturing math, including formulas for calculating RPM, surface footage (SFM), feed rates (IPR/IPT), and metal removal rates (MRR).
• Familiarity with basic cutting tool types (e.g., drills, end mills, inserts) and general workpiece material groups (e.g., steel, aluminum, cast iron)

Successful candidates will demonstrate the ability to work well independently, as well as with others, in a team environment. Candidates should possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, possess a good work ethic, demonstrate reliable and punctual work habits, demonstrate safety consciousness, and always conduct themselves in a professional manner.

The Salary range for this position is $65-75K

Why our people love working for Ingersoll Cutting Tools:

Ingersoll Cuttings Tools offers a strong benefits package including affordable and robust health, vision, and dental insurance plans. Our employees also benefit from an excellent 401k match, wellness reimbursement policy, as well as holidays, vacation, and sick time. Ingersoll Cutting Tools often promote from within, offering employees the chance to grow their skill set and experience. What we pride ourselves most on is our culture - you can expect to find a collaborative, friendly, and inclusive environment here.

If you would like to be considered for this position, please e-mail your resume with a brief cover letter highlighting your unique qualifications to careers@ingersoll-imc.com.