Associate Sales Manager

Kubota Engine America; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

PTO

401(k) plan

Job summary

Kubota Engine America is seeking an Associate Sales Manager based in Lincolnshire, IL with a hybrid schedule after 30 days. You will serve as the primary link for Mid/Small OEMs and Distributors, guiding orders through the sales cycle and providing technical support.

In this role you’ll build strong customer relationships, prepare quotes, coordinate with Engineering and BD teams, analyze data for forecasting, and represent Kubota at events to grow market share.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in business or engineering.
• 2+ years of sales experience with customer relationship focus.
• Basic understanding of engines and industrial markets; interest in expanding technical knowledge.
• Strong organizational, project management, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Build strong customer relationships by guiding on products, orders, schedules, and technical solutions.
• Prepare quotes, manage projects, and identify best engine solutions with customers.
• Collaborate with Business Development and Engineering to support opportunities.
• Analyze sales, inventory, and market data to track performance and forecast.
• Represent Kubota at trade shows and events to grow brand awareness.

Skills

Sales experience

Customer relationships

Communication

Project management

MS Office

Power BI

Analytical skills

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in business or engineering

Tools

Excel

Power BI

PowerPoint

Word

Job description

Kubota Engine America (KEA) is a global leader in industrial engine distribution, known for innovation, reliability, and exceptional customer support. The Associate Sales Manager position is responsible for providing excellent customer support to existing Mid/Small OEM and Distributor, managing customers’ orders through the sales order cycle and assisting with various sales matters. Developing plans to coincide with market trends, corporate goals, and objectives. This position is the “window” and direct link for all activity and communication including providing technical support to Mid/small OEMs and Distributor, Sales and other KEA Personnel.

This full‑time role is based in Lincolnshire, IL (north of Chicago) and transitions to a hybrid schedule after 30 days. KEA offers a comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, PTO, STD/LTD, and a 401(k) plan.

What You'll Do

• Build strong customer relationships by providing guidance on products, orders, delivery schedules, and technical solutions.
• Support the sales process by preparing quotes, managing projects, and partnering with customers to identify the best engine solutions for their needs.
• Collaborate with Business Development and Engineering teams to support new opportunities and drive customer success.
• Analyze sales, inventory, and market data to track performance, identify trends, and support forecasting activities.
• Represent Kubota at trade shows, customer events, and promotional activities while helping grow brand awareness and market share.
• Gain valuable cross-functional experience by working with teams across Sales, Marketing, Engineering, and global colleagues to support business growth.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in business or engineering
• 2+ years of sales experience with a passion for building customer relationships and driving results.
• Basic understanding of engines, off-road equipment, and industrial markets, with an interest in expanding technical knowledge.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to balance multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communicator and presenter with strong problem-solving, analytical, negotiation, and customer service skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, including Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Power BI.
• Willingness to travel up to 30%, including occasional overnight and international trips, to support customers and business growth.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Office‑based role with regular visits to engine labs, warehouses, and customer sites
• Exposure to noise, fumes, and mechanical equipment during site visits
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and travel by car and air