Senior Proposals Engineer in Rochdale

Department: Sales

Location: Rochdale

Compensation: £50,000 - £55,000

About Salt Separation Services:

Salt Separation Services have been leading in desalination technology for over 35 years; specialising in the engineering, commissioning and servicing of reverse osmosis (RO) plants that provide drinkable water solutions across a variety of industries. Our systems are used in sectors including naval, oil, cruise ships, and more. We’re committed to designing reliable, high-quality RO and water filtration solutions that meet the unique demands of each industry and customer we serve.

Position Summary:

The Proposals Specialist is responsible for delivering a professional, technical, and customer‑focused proposals service across new build and refurbishment projects. The role works independently to design and prepare complex proposals, ensuring accuracy, commercial viability, and alignment with company capabilities. With significant input into technical design, tooling options, and implementation strategies, the postholder supports the Sales function by generating high‑quality quotations, nurturing customer relationships, and identifying growth opportunities within the market. The role also contributes to continuous improvement, supports internal reporting, and maintains high standards across documentation and communication.

Key Responsibilities

• Proposal Development & Technical Input
  • Compile detailed and accurate proposals for new plant and refurbishment enquiries.
  • Provide significant input on technical design choices, tooling requirements, and implementation strategies.
  • Prepare and/or oversee the preparation of quotations that reflect customer requirements and company capabilities.
  • Handle technical enquiries, ensuring clear, professional resolutions for customers.
• Customer & Market Engagement
  • Maintain and develop strong relationships with existing customers via meetings, calls and email communication.
  • Arrange meetings with potential customers to generate new business.
  • Act as the primary point of contact between the company and its existing/prospective markets.
  • Actively listen to customer requirements and present solutions appropriately.
  • Negotiate commercial terms and support the closing of sales.
  • Gain a strong understanding of customers’ operations, challenges, and future requirements.
• Sales & Growth Strategy
  • Support the development of external communication strategies.
  • Assist with setting sales budgets and performance targets.
  • Achieve assigned sales targets consistently.
  • Assist in preparing accurate sales forecasts.
  • Work with the Head of Sales and management team to develop growth strategies and action plans.
• Market Awareness
  • Maintain detailed knowledge of the company’s products and services.
  • Monitor competitor activity and market trends to inform business decisions.
  • Gather market and customer insights to support sales and marketing initiatives.
• Quality & Values
  • Ensure compliance with Quality Assurance Systems and procedures.
  • Maintain and actively promote company culture and core values.
  • Undertake any additional reasonable tasks aligned with the needs of the business.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Technical & Professional Expertise
  • Strong understanding of engineering principles relevant to water treatment/plant equipment (or relevant sector specifics).
  • Ability to design, develop, and articulate complex technical proposals.
  • Competent in analysing technical data to create accurate quotations and recommendations.
  • Knowledge of company products, services, and capabilities.
  • Understanding of competitor products and wider market trends.
• Sales & Commercial Skills
  • Proven ability to manage customer relationships and build rapport.
  • Confident in prospecting, presenting, negotiating, and closing sales.
  • Skilled in developing and executing sales strategies.
  • Ability to contribute to accurate forecasting and sales planning.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills
  • Clear and professional written and verbal communication.
  • Ability to explain technical concepts in an accessible way to different audiences.
  • Strong stakeholder management and cross‑functional collaboration.
• Analytical & Decision-Making Skills
  • Ability to work independently on complex tasks with minimal supervision.
  • Strong problem-solving and critical thinking.
  • Comfortable providing significant input into design and delivery decisions.
  • Ability to review own performance and adapt to meet or exceed targets.
• Organisation & Process Improvement
  • Highly organised, able to handle multiple enquiries and priorities.
  • Strong attention to detail in documentation and technical accuracy.
  • Ability to document processes, develop SOPs, and contribute to continuous improvements.
• Values & Behaviours
  • Demonstrates professionalism and integrity in all customer interactions.
  • Acts in line with company core values and promotes positive culture.
  • Takes accountability for high-quality standards and outcomes.

Benefits:

• Competitive employer matched pension scheme (Aviva)
• Company Bonus Scheme
• Employee Referral Scheme
• Free Employee Assistance Services; giving counselling, GP access, financial and wellbeing advice.
• Life insurance
• Income protection (after 5 yrs service)
• Early finish Friday (finishing at 1pm)
• Plenty of training and development
• Holiday buy-back
• Excellent team building, social and company events

At Salt Separation Services, you’ll have the opportunity to work on impactful projects in a dynamic environment, as part of a small family-owned business. We have some big goals on our horizon, we take pride in supporting our employees' own growth and provide a culture that values quality, communication, integrity, health and safety and family.

We'd love to hear from you! Apply now...

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their CV and cover letter detailing relevant experience and qualifications.

The next steps

• Our team will help look into your application
• If successful, we'll arrange a quick chat
• Initial Interview, will be with the hiring manager and there will be an element of demonstrating your skills.
• Final stage, a peer interview to meet some of the people you'll be working alongside.
• Offer, and hopefully, acceptance!

Salt Separation Services is committed to creating an inclusive environment where diversity is valued, we encourage all candidates from all backgrounds, and are very happy to facilitate any adjustment you might need.