Concept and Quotation Engineer

ATC Automation is seeking an experienced Concept & Quotation Engineer to join our growing engineering team. This role is responsible for developing conceptual machine designs, preparing accurate cost estimates, and creating comprehensive proposals for custom automation systems that meet customer requirements.

Location: This position may be remote for highly experienced candidates, with periodic travel required to ATC Automation's headquarters in Cookeville, TN.

Please Note: This is not an IT position. We encourage all applicants to carefully review the qualifications and responsibilities to ensure their experience aligns with this engineering opportunity.

Working closely with customers, engineering, sales, and leadership, you will evaluate project specifications, production requirements, and technical drawings to develop innovative automation solutions that are both technically sound and cost-effective. This position plays a critical role in supporting new business opportunities by transforming customer concepts into compelling proposal packages that drive project success.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience in custom automation and machine design, strong conceptual engineering abilities, and a solid understanding of manufacturing processes. You will leverage SolidWorks and other engineering tools to develop machine concepts, 3D renderings, and technical documentation that support customer presentations and proposal development.

About ATC Automation

Since 1977, ATC Automation has been a trusted leader in designing and building custom automation solutions. From concept to commissioning, we partner with some of the world's top brands to deliver precision-engineered machinery that improves efficiency, reliability, and performance. Our expertise spans industries that shape the way we live and move-Life Sciences, Transportation, Consumer Products, and General Industry.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and comprehensive compensation package.
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, and 401(k).
• Opportunities for professional development, technical training, and career advancement.
• Collaborative engineering environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
• The opportunity to work on unique, custom-designed automation systems across a variety of industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop conceptual machine layouts and tooling designs for custom automation and manufacturing systems.
• Review customer drawings, specifications, production goals, cycle time requirements, and tolerances to determine project feasibility.
• Collaborate with customers, sales, engineering, and leadership to define and refine automation solutions that meet technical and commercial objectives.
• Develop preliminary and final cost estimates using Excel and company estimating tools.
• Calculate estimated operator task times and manufacturing cycle times for proposed assembly processes.
• Prepare detailed technical proposals, quotations, and supporting documentation using Microsoft Word, SolidWorks, and related software.
• Design conceptual assembly machines, automation equipment, and testing systems that balance innovation, manufacturability, and cost.
• Research emerging technologies, components, and manufacturing processes to improve proposed machine concepts.
• Create high-quality 3D renderings, concept drawings, and presentation materials to support customer proposals.
• Present technical concepts and quotation packages to customers and internal stakeholders while addressing technical questions and feedback.
• Manage multiple quotation opportunities simultaneously while meeting customer deadlines and sales objectives.
• Travel periodically to customer facilities to support sales meetings, project reviews, and technical discussions.
• Maintain a valid driver's license and the ability to travel as required.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in custom automation, machine building, special machinery, or a related engineering environment.
• Experience developing quotations, cost estimates, and technical proposals for custom automation projects is strongly preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Advanced proficiency using SolidWorks for conceptual machine design and 3D modeling.
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, machine design, GD&T, and interpretation of technical drawings.
• Working knowledge of mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical systems utilized in automated equipment.
• General understanding of industrial electrical controls and pneumatic control systems.
• Familiarity with machining and fabrication processes including milling, turning, boring, welding, and assembly.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a cross-functional team environment.

Preferred Skills

• Experience designing equipment for custom automation, assembly systems, or special machinery.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate multiple design approaches.
• Ability to balance technical requirements, manufacturability, project risk, and cost when developing equipment concepts.
• Experience supporting sales teams through customer presentations and technical discussions.
• Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational and time management skills.

Interpersonal Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to confidently present technical information to customers, suppliers, and internal teams.
• Strong collaboration skills with engineering, manufacturing, project management, and sales.
• Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Professional customer-focused approach with a commitment to delivering high-quality solutions.

Success Metrics

• Accuracy and competitiveness of project quotations.
• Timely completion of proposal packages and customer deliverables.
• Win rate of quoted automation projects.
• Quality and completeness of conceptual machine designs.
• Customer satisfaction throughout the quotation process.
• Ability to meet proposal deadlines while managing multiple opportunities.
• Collaboration and support provided to engineering and sales teams.

Disclaimer:

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position. This job description is subject to change but will remain in effect until superseded or canceled in writing by Human Resources.

ATC Automation is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

ATC Automation is the Automation segment of TASI Group. The TASI Group of Companies is comprised of four technologically advanced Strategic Business Segments commonly linked by a disciplined focus on Product Integrity, Package Integrity, and Automation. Each TASI company delivers world-class products and services, focusing on our global customer needs in diverse market segments. TASI has served several thousand global customers over the years and enjoys a very high rate of repeat customers, many of which are Blue Chip Global Companies. Major Markets include: Automotive, Medical Devices, Life Science, Pharmaceutical, Packaging, Oil & Gas, Food & Beverage, Consumer Goods and General Industrial Equipment.