At a Glance
- Tasks: Transform customer needs into competitive manufacturing proposals for composite parts.
- Company: Join iCOMAT, a leader in lightweight manufacturing innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private healthcare, stock options, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid role with dynamic teams and a culture of innovation.
- Why this job: Make a global impact in aerospace and automotive industries with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Strong understanding of composite manufacturing; experience in engineering roles preferred.
The predicted salary is between 34200 - 41800 £ per year.
Join ICOMAT – Revolutionising the Future of Lightweight Manufacturing! iCOMAT is an advanced manufacturing company that invented Rapid Tow Shearing (RTS) - the only proven technology for producing defect-free curved-fiber composite parts at industrial scale. We deliver the lightest structures possible for aerospace, automotive, defense, and space, at a rate and cost efficiency that far exceeds existing composite production processes.
We build and operate automated factories for composite materials, delivering components to Tier 1 suppliers and OEMs. The business has three main divisions: development of automated production machines, development of software design and production tools, and operation of the factory. We work with 25+ customers and completed the largest ever Series A in composites manufacturing to fuel a significant scale-up, with growth plans that will see the business multiply in size over the next two to three years and expand operations into the UK, Europe and the US.
The business has currently more than 130,000 sqm of production capacity with manufacturing facilities in the UK (Gloucester and Swindon) and the US (Dayton, Ohio); a Hardware R&D Centre in Bristol, UK; and a Software R&D Centre in Athens, Greece.
The role involves turning customer requirements into credible, competitive manufacturing proposals. This isn’t a traditional sales role. We need someone who understands how composite parts are actually made and can use that knowledge to work out:
- How we would manufacture a part or assembly
- What materials, tooling, labour and processes are required
- What the job is likely to cost
- What assumptions and risks need to be considered
- How to turn that into a clear customer quotation or proposal
You won’t be expected to solve every technical problem yourself, but you should have enough composites manufacturing knowledge to develop a strong first-pass solution and know when specialist engineering input is needed.
What will you be doing?
- Reviewing RFQs, drawings and customer requirements
- Developing manufacturing approaches for composite parts and assemblies
- Building estimates for material, labour, tooling, machining, assembly and bought-out items
- Developing NRE and recurring production costs
- Working with Engineering, Manufacturing and Supply Chain to validate assumptions
- Identifying manufacturing, technical and commercial risks
- Preparing quotations and technical-commercial proposals
- Supporting customer discussions and clarifying requirements
- Improving our costing tools, estimating processes and proposal templates
What do we need from you?
The most important thing is a good understanding of composite manufacturing. You may already be working as a Composites Manufacturing Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Production Engineer, Estimating Engineer, Project Engineer, NPI Engineer or experienced composites manufacturing professional.
Experience across some of the following would be particularly useful:
- Prepreg and/or dry-fibre composites
- Hand lay-up and laminating
- Autoclave or oven processing
- Composite tooling
- Bonding and assembly
- CNC trimming and machining
- Manufacturing routings and BoMs
- Labour and material estimating
- Low-rate or series production
Previous Business Development or proposal experience is useful, but it isn’t essential. We’re more interested in someone with strong manufacturing judgement who can develop the commercial and proposal side of their career.
Working conditions: This is a hybrid role, not a fully remote position. Regular time at our Gloucester and Swindon facilities is important, as the role involves working closely with the teams actually developing and manufacturing the products we quote.
For someone coming from a manufacturing or engineering background, this is a great opportunity to move closer to customers, commercial decision-making and business development while staying connected to the technical side of advanced composites.
Our Values: Uncompromising Excellence, Discipline over excuses. We commit. We follow through. We hold ourselves and each other to the highest standard, especially when the pressure is on. Push the edge. iCOMAT was built on a refusal to accept that curved fiber could not be manufactured at scale. We innovate where others hesitate. Aligned and accountable. Everyone owns their lane, communicates openly, and delivers without being chased. No silos. No ambiguity.
Why iCOMAT?
- Competitive Salary & Benefits: We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including private healthcare, pension scheme.
- Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the company’s success.
- Career Growth Opportunities: Join us at a pivotal time as we scale up, offering unmatched professional growth opportunities in the rapidly advancing field of composite materials.
- Innovation-Focused Culture: We pride ourselves on our inclusive, forward-thinking work environment. Recognized by Bloomberg as a 'UK Startup to Watch,' iCOMAT celebrates diversity and encourages all applicants, regardless of background, to apply.
- Global Impact: Be a part of our mission to redefine lightweight structures for the automotive, aerospace, and space industries, working with some of the most influential companies worldwide.
Ready to be part of something big? Apply now to learn more and join us on our exciting journey!
Composites Proposal & Estimating Engineer in Gloucester employer: iCOMAT
At iCOMAT, we are not just revolutionising lightweight manufacturing; we are creating a dynamic and inclusive work environment that fosters innovation and professional growth. As the Head of Project Management based in Gloucester, you will have the unique opportunity to build and lead a project management function from the ground up, while enjoying competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and stock options that align your success with the company's growth. Join us at this pivotal moment as we expand our operations globally and redefine the future of composite materials.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Composites Proposal & Estimating Engineer in Gloucester
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
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While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like iCOMAT, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Composites Proposal & Estimating Engineer in Gloucester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to iCOMAT specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at iCOMAT
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with iCOMAT, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like iCOMAT value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
