PURPOSE
The SMC Sales Development Program is a sales development program designed to provide training on our extensive product line, proficiency of our corporate sales strategies, familiarity of our manufacturing methods, and competency of our internal support processes. This is an entry- level outside sales position at SMC, with ample opportunity for growth once at the branch.
The SMC Sales Development Program training is both classroom-based and hands-on, accommodating the varied learning styles of trainees. Unlike other sales training programs, the SMC Sales Development Program provides training through work-experience; you will spend time with each of SMC’s departments working and building relationships throughout your time at headquarters. These cross-departmental relationships and knowledge will make you invaluable to customers while in the field.
The SMC Sales Development Program exists to prepare a person for a career in outside sales with SMC Corporation of America—we welcome interested individuals with all levels of experience and backgrounds to apply. The SMC Sales Development Program is a great opportunity for those looking to gain an understanding of automation in manufacturing, regardless of their prior education or work experience. We are looking for curious-minded individuals who are looking to join a company dedicated to sustainable automation.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
The Sales trainee will receive training that ranges from sales skills development and corporate culture to SMC’s applications, product line, and target industries served. They will learn about sales strategy, marketing and manufacturing production and order fulfillment. Specifically, the trainee will be required to participate in the following training activities:
During the 12 weeks in training, participants develop selling skills, learn SMC target industries, the SMC product line and its applications, and beyond. Importantly, there is extensive training on our product line and its applications in the manufacturing environment.
- Actively participate in learning activities which demonstrate sales operations and supply chain functionality
- Complete written and practical training in supply chain policy and procedures
- Actively participate in learning the activities of a technical support role
- Complete basic pneumatics training and other technical training as directed by SMC sales management
- Review product catalogs & manuals to gain a basic understanding of SMC product
- Work with our internal support team to learn how to demonstrate “best in class” customer support
- Partner with experienced SMC sales professionals on customer & distributor visits
- Collaboration with cohort members to present a customer pitch to SMC leadership
- Complete short-term work assignments in all functional areas of the business (such as production, warehouse, customer service, etc.)
- Participate in simulated selling scenarios onsite with Sales Division leadership and SMC’s successful sales team members
- Cross-departmental and internal collaboration between teams to build strong relationships at headquarters that will be key to success in the field
Available Branches for assignment after graduating the Sales Academy:
- Atlanta, GA
- Austin, TX
- Birmingham, AL*
- Boston, MA
- Charlotte, NC
- Chicago, IL
- Cincinnati, OH
- Cleveland, OH
- Dallas, TX
- Denver, CO*
- Indianapolis, IN
- Kansas City, MO*
- Knoxville, TN*
- Los Angeles, CA
- Milwaukee, WI
- Minneapolis, MN
- Nashville, TN
- New Jersey
- Phoenix, AZ
- Portland, OR
- Richmond, VA*
- Rochester, NY
- San Jose, CA
- St. Louis, MO
- Tampa, FL
*Some of the listed branches are satellite branches and will be hiring trainees on a case by case basis
PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Fast paced environment (includes both office and field work)
- Occasional travel in a team training environment may be required
- Physically capable of lifting SMC products and displays up to 50 lbs.
- Varying work hours
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- Two (2) year Technical degree or equivalent work experience, four (4) year degree preferred
- Excellent communication skills
- Proficient in the use of computers and ability to learn new programs and tools as required
Compensation & Benefits
The expected starting pay for this position is $19.00 per hour during the Sales Development Program. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, skills, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors.
Upon successful completion of the Sales Development Program, participants may transition into an outside sales role with SMC and will be eligible for the compensation and benefits associated with their assigned position.
SMC offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) retirement savings; paid time off and paid holidays; life and disability insurance; and other employee benefits and programs.
For Internal Use only: SalesAcad001, Sales001
Skills Required
- Two-year technical degree or equivalent work experience
- Excellent communication skills
- Computer proficiency and ability to learn new programs and tools
- Ability to participate in occasional team training travel
- Ability to lift SMC products and displays up to 50 pounds
- Four-year degree
What We Do
SMC Corporation of America is the North American arm of SMC Corporation, a global manufacturer of pneumatic, control, and process components used in industrial automation. Its product portfolio includes air cylinders and solenoid valves, while its sales and engineering organization supports automation, controls, and process applications. The company serves industrial customers through manufacturing, technical expertise, and sales operations across the United States and Canada.
