Application Engineer

is responsible for evaluating customer requirements, determining technical feasibility, and developing accurate cost estimates and commercial proposals that support profitable business growth and successful project delivery. Working closely with Commercial, Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing and Supply Chain teams, you will ensure customer requirements are fully understood and translated into technically compliant, commercially competitive solutions. This is an excellent opportunity for an engineering professional with strong analytical skills, commercial awareness, and a passion for solving complex technical challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and interpret customer drawings, specifications and technical documentation to define project scope and technical requirements.
• Engage directly with customers and internal stakeholders to clarify requirements and eliminate ambiguity.
• Assess technical feasibility and determine compliance with customer specifications.
• Identify technical, commercial and supply chain risks during the quotation process and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Develop accurate cost estimates for products, services and projects, including material, supplier and internal manufacturing costs.
• Lead complex quotation activities in collaboration with Commercial, Engineering, Purchasing and Supply Chain teams.
• Obtain and evaluate supplier quotations to support robust cost modelling.
• Develop clear and compelling technical and commercial proposals, communicating assumptions, risks, costs and delivery considerations.
• Present proposal recommendations to internal stakeholders and customers where required.
• Ensure a smooth transition from quotation to order fulfilment through clear communication with Engineering and Manufacturing teams.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance quotation accuracy, responsiveness and business win rates.
• Maintain accurate quotation records and supporting documentation.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of key customer products, applications and markets.
• Maintain awareness of supplier capabilities, pricing and performance.
• Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies and competitor activity.
• Attend customer visits, trade shows and industry events as required.
• Follow the site's comprehensive safety regulations, promptly report any risks, hazards or incidents, and ensure a safe workplace by adhering to all established protocols.
• Support company values, ethical conduct and integrity in all activities.

Skills, Qualifications & Experience

• Essential Degree qualified in an Engineering or STEM discipline.
• Experience preparing technical quotations, proposals or cost estimates within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications.
• Strong analytical, numerical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational and project management skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience using ERP and/or MRP systems.
• Desirable Degree in Photonics, Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Experience working with opto-mechanical components and assemblies.
• Knowledge of precision engineering, photonics, optics, aerospace, defence or advanced manufacturing environments.
• Experience using CAD software, including SolidWorks.
• Collaborative team player with strong stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to influence and work effectively across cross-functional teams.
• Commercially aware with a focus on delivering customer value and business success.
• Proactive, adaptable and eager to learn new skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Willingness to travel internationally to visit customers and suppliers when required.

What You’ll Receive

• Competitive salary
• Annual bonus scheme
• 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays
• Company pension scheme
• Healthcare benefits
• On-site employee benefits
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression

This job position requires compliance with EU and/or UK Regulations. Therefore, all employees working in this capacity must meet EU and/or UK citizenship status.

Job Family: Engineering Business Unit: CVI #J-18808-Ljbffr

About the Role 12 month fixed term contract This role

CVI Infrared Optics is a part of the IDEX Materials, Science and Solutions (MSS) platform. Besides our unique capabilities in manufacturing large optics from visible to longwave, we are backed by the combined capabilities of our platform. CVI offers a full spectrum of optical engineering, manufacturing, and assembly expertise. Together we can support all our customers with more engineering expertise, broader capabilities, and extensive manufacturing resources. Since 1982, CVI Infrared Optics has been manufacturing advanced optical components for high performance optronics systems. We have become the leading experts in manufacturing and integration of large optics from visible, and near infrared, to longwave infrared, that can continuously perform in extreme weather climates and harsh conditions. When you need robust optical components and assembly expertise for your mission critical application, we can provide world-class solutions.

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