How to Write a Civil Engineering Proposal

As civil engineers, we have written hundreds of proposals during our consulting days. Some of us love the challenges and problem solving that goes into writing proposals, while others would just rather not. Regardless of if you enjoy them or not, a Civil Engineering Proposal is one of those things that every civil engineer needs to know how to create. They are crucial for securing work and keeping your team busy and billable. The concept of a proposal is simple: create a document outlining how you will perform the proposed work and why your team should be selected. However, the actual execution of composing a proposal is quite challenging.

In this post we will help you navigate through some of those challenges. We will go over:

  • what a civil engineering proposal actually is and who creates them;
  • the critical sections that should be included in a civil engineering proposal; and
  • key tips for creating winning engineering proposals.

What is a Civil Engineering Proposal

A civil engineering proposal is a formal document created by a civil engineering firm or professional engineer in response to a request for proposal (RFP). The proposal aims to inform potential clients about the engineering services that they can offer and convince them to choose the proposing firm for the project. It outlines a proposed project, its objectives, scope, methodology, timeline, and estimated costs.

Civil Engineering Proposal Cover Page

Civil Engineering Proposal Cover Page Example

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Critical Sections of a Civil Engineering Proposal

When reading an RFP, often the sections that need to be included in the civil engineering proposal will be outlined. Below are some of the key sections that will be required in every civil engineering proposal. These are generic titles and the RFP may call them something slightly different. It is recommended that you use the wording outlined in the RFP to allow the client to easily review your proposal.

1. Project Understanding

This section demonstrates your comprehensive understanding of the client’s requirements outlined in the RFP. It highlights your ability to identify and effectively address the issues presented and those that may present themselves throughout the process.

2. Project Methodology or Scope

This is similar to a procedures section of a science report. The explanation to the client will detail the approach for addressing the problem and fulfilling the requirements specified in the RFP document. You may also define the precise boundaries of the project and outline elements that fall outside its scope.

3. Project Team

In this section, you will present detailed profiles of each project team member, including their role, qualifications, and professional resume (or CV). The project team can be presented in various formats, such as text, tables, or graphics, such as an organizational (org) chart. Resumes are typically included as part of an appendix. Key team members include a Project Manager, Lead Engineer, Technical Support Staff, and Quality Control Manager or Reviewer.

4. Team Qualifications and Past Experience

This section shows that your team has the proper skills and knowledge required to complete the proposed work. Past projects can be listed in the proposal document and project sheets can be included as part of an appendix.

5. Project Schedule

A project schedule can be presented as text, in a table or in a GANTT chart. This section informs your potential client of how long each task will take and the ultimate project completion date.

6. Project Budget

The project budget can be presented in the technical proposal or in a separate financial proposal, depending on the RFP requirements. This section outlines the expected expenses for the project. It is divided into tasks to give a detailed breakdown and ends with the total cost of the project.

The length of each of these key sections will vary and depend on how many points are assigned to each in the evaluation criteria, outlined in the RFP. The more points assigned to a section, the more time and effort should be spent on that section and therefore the longer it should be.

In addition to each of these sections, all proposals also require a cover letter and a title page at the beginning of the document.

Need an example of how to put a proposal together? Check out our Free Civil Engineering Proposal Template.

Key Tips for a Winning Proposal

Although some of these tips may sound like common sense, they are often overlooked when project teams are rushing to finish proposals. Make sure you follow each of the tips below for a winning proposal:

  • Use clear and concise language – most proposals are restricted to a certain number of words or pages. Ensure that you use precise technical language and eliminate unnecessary words from your proposal to enhance its effectiveness.
  • Provide examples – demonstrate that you know how to address the client’s needs through previous project examples
  • Make it client specific – tailor your proposal to the client by focusing on their needs, values, and issues. This will demonstrate that you truly understand and are interested in working with them.
  • Proofread for grammar and spelling mistakes
  • Have consistent formatting and style throughout – a consistent and well laid out proposal shows that you are professional and pay attention to detail, two things the client values when hiring an engineering consultant.
  • Use a consistent voice and narrative throughout

For more tips and tricks, check out our previous post titled Top 12 Winning Engineering Proposal Tips. There is also a full list of things to look for when completing a review of grammar, spelling, style, and formatting in our Free Civil Engineering Proposal Checklist. Additionally, if you are looking for some of those keywords that you should be using in your proposal, check out Key Phrases for Winning Proposals.

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