An engineering proposal is the main way that engineering companies and professionals secure new work. The proposal is usually written in response to an advertisement or request from a client, and is a description of how you propose to tackle a specific project.

Proposals are both a technical document and a marketing pitch. They must be technically accurate, but should also present your ideas in a positive way to show the client why you should be given the work.

Proposals can be written in various formats, and your company is likely to have a specific template to follow; however, an engineering proposal usually includes the following sections:

• Project scope. This sets out the project aim, brief description of the task and a list of deliverables. It sets the boundaries of what is included in the project, and will be important in case additional work is later required or requested by the client.
• Project work and schedule. This is the main body of the proposal. It describes your proposed approach and stages of work, along with a general timeline. It should also include any assumptions you have made in developing the proposal.
• Project team. This describes the key personnel who will be working on the project, and the skills and experience they have that are relevant to the work.
• Previous projects. This describes similar projects completed by your company or proposed team. If possible, these should include contact details of past clients who are willing to be referees.
• Project budget. This is usually presented as the costs for various categories of work or deliverables.
• Administrative and legal material. This includes proposed contract terms and proof of your relevant insurances.

Proposals can also include a summary section, which can help clients to see the key elements of your proposal at a glance.