Technical Sales Engineer

Job Title: Technical Sales Engineer

Location: Wheeling, IL (On-site) - Travel required for customer meetings

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Salary: $75,000 - $95,000 per year

Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and technically skilled professional to drive cost estimation, quoting, and process improvement initiatives in a manufacturing environment. This role partners closely with Sales, Engineering, and Operations to ensure accurate cost modeling, manufacturability, and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

Estimation & Quoting (Primary Focus)

• Analyze RFQs for machining, tooling, and secondary operations (casting knowledge is a plus).
• Develop comprehensive cost estimates, including cycle times, tooling amortization, materials, and logistics.
• Build and maintain robust cost models and quoting templates.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Operations to validate assumptions and manufacturability.
• Deliver formal quotation packages to Sales and leadership teams.

Sales Support & Customer Engagement

• Act as a technical liaison between Sales and Engineering.
• Provide technical backup during customer meetings and presentations.
• Travel to customer sites as needed for program kickoffs, reviews, and presentations.
• Translate technical and cost data into clear, commercial messaging for customers.

Lean & Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement shop floor efficiency projects, including time studies, workflow optimization, and waste reduction.
• Apply lean manufacturing and industrial engineering methods to improve quoting accuracy and cost competitiveness.
• Provide feedback from estimation to production to continuously refine cost models.

Program Support (Value-Add)

• Assist with program management tasks such as tooling kickoffs, PPAPs, and launch tracking.
• Ensure RFQ assumptions align with real-world launch execution.
• Support customer communications during critical program phases.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong machining knowledge and ability to analyze cycle times and processes (required)
• Understanding of aluminum die casting, tooling, and foundry processes (preferred).
• Experience with lean manufacturing and efficiency improvement projects.
• Excellent communication skills for internal collaboration and customer interaction.
• Proficiency in Excel/quoting tools, ERP/MRP systems; project management software a plus.
• Ability to travel to customer sites as needed.

Ideal Background

• 3–7 years in machining cost estimating, quoting, or industrial/lean engineering.
• Hands-on manufacturing experience in machining environments; casting knowledge is a plus.
• Exposure to customer-facing roles or sales engineering support.
• Program management or launch coordination experience is desirable.
• Engineering, manufacturing, or other technical degrees preferred but not required.

To be considered for this opportunity, please reach out to Trova Advisory Group by sending an email to msosnowska@gotrova.com with your resume, the position you are applying for, and a brief introduction.

When contacting us, please ask for the hiring team to ensure your application is directed to the right person. We look forward to hearing from you!

About Trova Advisory Group

Trova Advisory Group specializes in delivering a comprehensive array of staffing solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses across various sectors. Our expertise spans clerical, administrative, financial, and professional roles, offered through flexible arrangements including temporary placements, temp-to-hire options, and direct hire services. With a keen understanding of the dynamic demands of today's workforce landscape, we pride ourselves on providing top-tier talent solutions that empower organizations to thrive and succeed in a competitive market environment.

Trova Advisory Group is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or group status.

We are committed to creating a culturally diverse and inclusive workplace where individuals of all abilities are welcomed and supported. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact us at trova@gotrova.com. Include the nature of your request and your contact information, and we will be happy to assist you.

Trova Advisory Group offers a comprehensive benefits package offering Medical, and Dental benefit options to all eligible employees.