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Sales Development Trainee/ Account Representative

SMC Corporation of America
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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 from the SMC Sales Academy:

  • Atlanta, GA
  • Austin, TX
  • Birmingham, AL*
  • Boston, MA
  • Chicago, IL
  • Cincinnati, OH
  • Cleveland, OH
  • Dallas, TX
  • Denver, CO*
  • Des Moines, IA
  • Detroit, MI
  • El Paso, TX
  • Grand Rapids
  • Kansas City, MO
  • Knoxville, TN
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Milwaukee, WI
  • Minneapolis, MN
  • Nashville, TN
  • New Jersey (multiple locations)
  • Philadelphia, PA
  • Phoenix, AZ
  • Portland, OR
  • Richmond, VA
  • Rochester, NY
  • San Jose, CA
  • St. Louis, MO
  • Some of the listed branches are satellite branches and are hiring trainees on an as-needed 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 
  • The Sales Academy has two cohorts per year: Each training period is about 12 weeks 
    We are currently recruiting for the July 2026 cohort. 

 

Training at the branch

Once training at headquarters is completed, trainees return to work at the branch (identified during the interview process). Sales Development graduates receive a company vehicle at the branch and begin working as a Sales Associate. During this time, you will apply the knowledge gained in the academy in the field--building customer relationships with your branch's strong support and guidance.

From this point forward, graduates will have the ability and opportunity to grow within the company and expand their experience and sales knowledge. SMC is rapidly expanding our capabilities and has opportunities for growth at all sales division levels. We look forward to speaking with you soon!