Location: On-site, Loanhead, Edinburgh
Hours: Full-Time
Flexible Working Options - 4- or 5-day week
Join Our Engineering Team: Project Engineer (Bids)
We are seeking a motivated and technically strong Project Engineer (Bids) to join MacTaggart Scott (MTS), reporting to the Principal Bid Engineer within our Engineering Design department.
This role will support the Business Development and Bids & Proposals teams by leading engineering responses to customer enquiries and developing costed, compliant technical proposals. You will coordinate engineering input across disciplines to ensure high-quality submissions are delivered on time and within budget.
Initially working under moderate supervision, you will receive guidance from the Principal Bid Engineer and wider Engineering team, with increasing autonomy as experience and confidence develop.
About Us
MacTaggart Scott primarily supports the Naval Defence industry, delivering complete engineered solutions from concept and design through manufacture, commissioning, and through life support. Established in 1898, we combine a proud heritage with a forward-looking approach, driven by innovation, continuous improvement, and engineering excellence.
Our Engineering Design team plays a critical role in shaping future projects by transforming customer requirements into robust, technically sound, and commercially competitive proposals.
What Is the Job About?
As Project Engineer (Bids), you will support and coordinate the Engineering Design department's response to a wide range of technical enquiries and tender opportunities.
Success in this role will be measured by the delivery of compliant, high quality proposals within agreed timescales and budgets, alongside strong collaboration, customer focus, and contribution to continuous improvement initiatives.
You will:
Interface with Business Development and Bids & Proposals teams to understand customer requirements
Produce clear, concise, and technically robust proposal documentation
Review customer specifications and develop procurement specifications where required
Coordinate multi-disciplinary engineering resources to deliver bid inputs
Compile detailed work breakdown structures and estimates of engineering effort
Attend customer meetings, deliver technical presentations, and contribute to engineering and commercial discussions
Support the development of standardised proposal documentation and trend analysis to inform future product development
Key Responsibilities
Key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
Leading the engineering input for assigned bids and enquiries
Liaising with internal stakeholders and suppliers to ensure accurate technical and cost information
Reviewing and checking engineering drawings and documentation
Supporting financial awareness by ensuring engineering effort and cost estimates align with profitability objectives
Contributing to departmental continuous improvement initiatives
Maintaining professionalism and security awareness when working within military and naval environments
Complying with company Health & Safety policies and procedures at all times
About You
You will be a proactive and collaborative engineer who:
Has experience working with multi-disciplinary teams
Is confident producing specification documents and engaging with suppliers
Demonstrates strong problem-solving ability and an innovative mindset
Takes a flexible approach to work and is comfortable managing multiple priorities
Communicates effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
Understands the importance of accuracy, cost control, and customer service in bid environments
Requirements
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Essential
BSc or BEng in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, or a relevant Apprenticeship with HNC
Experience interfacing with multi-discipline engineering teams
Experience creating specification documents and liaising with suppliers
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Desirable
Knowledge of hydraulic systems and electrical/control systems
Experience in systems engineering and requirements management software
Experience using solid modelling tools; structural analysis and finite element modelling advantageous
Awareness of military environmental requirements (Shock, Noise & Vibration, hazardous areas)
Experience within defence or highly regulated industries
Current Security Clearance
Benefits
Benefits
Your future And What We Offer:
Flexible Working: Choose a 4- or 5-day week with flexible hours (Mon-Thurs 07:00-19:15 with core hours 09:30-15:30, Friday 07:00 - 16:00 with core hours 09:30 - 12:00), allowing you to fit work around your life
Leave Entitlements: Inclusive annual leave, paid parental leave, military reservist leave, annual leave buy and sell, and more
Career Development: Supportive environment with a dedicated Learning & Development team and clear pathways to grow your career
Wellbeing Support: Access to our comprehensive wellbeing programme, Employee Assistance Programme, onsite nurse, and life insurance
Health & Protection: Sick pay, free flu vaccinations, and comprehensive health & wellbeing initiatives
Onsite Facilities: Canteen, free parking, and cycle-to-work scheme for convenience
Financial Benefits: Generous company pension plan and exclusive employee discounts