Industrial Automation Sales Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of Industry 4.0, the prominence of Industrial Automation Sales Engineers is undeniably high.

As industrial automation evolves, the demand for capable individuals who can navigate, enhance, and secure our advanced industrial systems grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from an Industrial Automation Sales Engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of industrial automation sales engineering,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a versatile Industrial Automation Sales Engineer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Industrial Automation Sales Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Industrial Automation Sales Engineers are responsible for selling automation solutions to industries.

They use technical expertise and understanding of the client’s requirements to propose suitable automation systems and equipment.

Their job involves frequent communication with customers, suppliers, and internal engineering teams.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Identifying prospective customers and understanding their automation needs
• Developing and delivering sales presentations and product demonstrations
• Creating detailed proposal documents and pricing quotations for prospective clients
• Providing technical assistance and product training to customers
• Maintaining accurate records of sales leads, customer accounts, and sales
• Coordinating with engineering teams to design and develop automation solutions that meet customer requirements
• Attending trade shows, conferences, and other marketing events to promote the company’s automation products and solutions
• Building and maintaining strong, long-lasting customer relationships
• Updating clients on new product launches and upgrades
• Working with customer service and engineering teams to address customer complaints and issues
• Forecasting sales targets and ensuring they are met

 

Industrial Automation Sales Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dynamic and experienced Industrial Automation Sales Engineer to join our team.

The Sales Engineer will be responsible for developing new business opportunities, maintaining relationships with existing clients, and selling industrial automation solutions.

The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in industrial automation, as well as excellent sales and negotiation skills.

The ability to understand customer needs and provide appropriate solutions is key for this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Identify potential clients and the decision makers within the client organization
• Develop a sales strategy to approach potential clients and obtain new business
• Provide technical and sales support for clients
• Prepare and deliver technical presentations explaining products or services to customers and prospective customers
• Collaborate with sales teams to understand customer requirements and provide sales support
• Coordinate sales projects
• Develop long-term relationships with clients
• Secure and renew orders and arrange delivery
• Help clients solve problems with installed equipment

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Sales Engineer in the field of Industrial Automation
• Solid technical background with understanding and/or hands-on experience with automation solutions
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to forge strong, long-lasting relationships with customers
• Ability to creatively explain and present complex concepts in an easy to understand manner
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects at a time while paying strict attention to detail
• Self-motivated with a results-driven approach
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Industrial Automation Sales Engineer
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent travel for client meetings and presentations. Remote work may be possible depending on location and travel requirements.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Sales Manager or Business Development Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $150,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Industrial Automation Sales Engineer Do?

An Industrial Automation Sales Engineer typically works for manufacturing or industrial automation companies.

They can also operate as independent consultants offering their expertise to various businesses.

These professionals are responsible for selling complex industrial automation systems and solutions to businesses, focusing on manufacturing and process industries.

They work closely with clients to understand their automation needs and suggest suitable solutions that can improve their operational efficiency and productivity.

They often work in tandem with other engineering teams to design and customize automation systems according to the client’s specific requirements.

They create and present proposals detailing the technical specifications, system capabilities, cost estimates, and potential benefits of the proposed automation solution.

An Industrial Automation Sales Engineer also liaises with the installation and service teams to ensure seamless implementation of the sold automation systems.

They provide after-sales support, helping with system updates, troubleshooting, and resolving any issues the client might face post-installation.

They also stay informed about the latest advancements in industrial automation technology, using this knowledge to address the evolving needs of clients and to identify new business opportunities.

Through regular client meetings, industry events, and technical presentations, they build strong relationships with potential and existing customers, aiming to achieve customer satisfaction and drive sales growth.

 

Industrial Automation Sales Engineer Qualifications and Skills

An Industrial Automation Sales Engineer must demonstrate a range of technical, sales and industry-specific skills to succeed in this role.

These include:

• Technical expertise in the field of industrial automation, with a strong understanding of various products, systems and solutions to accurately address client needs and requirements.
• Outstanding sales skills, including prospecting, negotiation, and closing deals to drive revenue growth and achieve sales targets.
• Effective communication skills to clearly explain complex technical concepts to customers, answer their queries and provide information about products and services.
• Strong problem-solving abilities to identify customer challenges and propose suitable automation solutions.
• Excellent customer service skills to foster long-term client relationships, and manage customer feedback and complaints professionally.
• Ability to work well in a team, collaborating effectively with product managers, engineers, and other sales professionals.
• Project management skills to oversee the successful implementation of automation solutions and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Attention to detail to understand customer requirements, prepare accurate sales proposals, and monitor sales performance.

 

Industrial Automation Sales Engineer Experience Requirements

For entry-level Industrial Automation Sales Engineer positions, candidates typically require at least 1-2 years of experience in sales or a related field, often gained through internships, part-time roles, or even through relevant coursework.

This initial experience provides foundational knowledge in customer service and basic technical understanding of industrial automation products.

Candidates with 3-5 years of experience likely have more advanced skills, having worked in industrial automation sales or a closely related role.

They often have experience in building relationships with customers, understanding customer needs, and successfully selling industrial automation products or solutions.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are often considered for senior or managerial positions.

These professionals typically have a deep understanding of the industrial automation market, experience in leading sales teams, and a proven track record of achieving sales targets.

They might also have experience in strategizing and implementing sales plans, as well as managing major accounts or territories.

Regardless of the level, strong technical knowledge in automation technology, excellent communication skills, and problem-solving abilities are crucial for success in this role.

 

Industrial Automation Sales Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Industrial Automation Sales Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, or a related field.

They need a strong technical background in industrial automation technologies such as PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, and conveyor systems.

Since this role combines engineering and sales, it is also beneficial to have coursework or experience in business, marketing or sales.

Some positions may require Industrial Automation Sales Engineers to have a master’s degree in industrial engineering or a related discipline, or an MBA with a focus on sales or marketing.

Furthermore, certain employers might prefer candidates with certifications in industrial automation technologies from recognized institutions or technology providers.

Some Industrial Automation Sales Engineers also pursue professional sales certification programs to enhance their selling techniques and negotiation skills.

These educational and training achievements demonstrate a candidate’s technical expertise, sales acumen, and commitment to continual learning and professional growth.

 

Industrial Automation Sales Engineer Salary Expectations

An Industrial Automation Sales Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $93,679 (USD) per year.

The actual compensation can significantly vary depending on factors such as years of experience, technical expertise, the size and industry of the employing company, and the geographical location.

 

Industrial Automation Sales Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Industrial Automation Sales Engineer need?

Industrial Automation Sales Engineers should have a deep understanding of engineering principles and industrial automation products and systems.

They should possess excellent sales and negotiation skills, strong communication and presentation abilities, and the capacity to build and maintain client relationships.

An aptitude for problem-solving and the ability to work under pressure are also important.

 

Do Industrial Automation Sales Engineers need a degree?

Yes, Industrial Automation Sales Engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, preferably in electrical, mechanical, or industrial engineering.

Some roles may require a master’s degree or a MBA.

A background in sales can be beneficial but is not always necessary as on-the-job training is usually provided.

 

What should you look for in an Industrial Automation Sales Engineer’s resume?

Look for a degree in engineering and any additional qualifications related to industrial automation.

Experience in industrial automation sales, or at least in a technical sales environment, is often a must.

It’s also important to look for evidence of strong communication skills, project management experience, and a track record of meeting sales targets.

 

What qualities make a good Industrial Automation Sales Engineer?

A good Industrial Automation Sales Engineer should have a deep technical knowledge, and the ability to communicate complex ideas in a way that customers can understand.

They should be proactive, have excellent problem-solving skills, and be comfortable working under pressure.

Good interpersonal skills are important for building relationships with clients, and they should be motivated by meeting sales targets.

 

Is it difficult to hire Industrial Automation Sales Engineers?

Hiring Industrial Automation Sales Engineers can be challenging because it requires finding candidates with a unique blend of technical knowledge and sales abilities.

They need to understand complex systems and be able to explain them to customers in a clear and convincing way.

Furthermore, the high demand for professionals in this field often leads to a competitive job market.

 

Conclusion

And so we arrive at the end.

Today, we’ve unpacked the intricate role of an industrial automation sales engineer.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about selling products.

It’s about fueling the progress of the industrial world, one automation solution at a time.

With our comprehensive industrial automation sales engineer job description template and real-world instances, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop at readiness?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to absolute brilliance.

Remember:

Every automation solution sold is a step towards a more efficient industrial future.

Let’s drive that progress. Together.

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