Automation Sales Specialist

Sonepar Canada, Inc.; Irving (TX); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

401(k) retirement savings with company match

Professional development programs

Job summary

Sonepar Canada, Inc. is looking for an Automation Sales Specialist – OEM to drive growth in industrial controls and automation solutions. This role focuses on building relationships with OEMs and leading the sales process in automation opportunities.

The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in industrial automation sales, a strong understanding of relevant technologies, and proven consultative selling skills. We offer benefits such as paid time off, retirement savings match, and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in industrial automation sales or OEM business development.
• Experience with machine builders or OEM customers preferred.
• Working knowledge of industrial automation technologies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and expand relationships with OEM customers.
• Lead the commercial sales process for automation opportunities.
• Position solutions within OEM machine architectures.

Skills

Consultative selling

Relationship-building

Industrial automation knowledge

Technical sales experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or related field

Tools

PLCs

HMIs

VFDs

Motion control

Industrial communications

Job description

Position: Automation Sales Specialist – OEM

Location: Irving, TX

Position Summary

The Automation Sales Specialist – OEM is responsible for driving growth of industrial controls and automation solutions with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). This role focuses on early engagement in the machine design lifecycle to influence platform selection, standardization, and long‑term solution adoption. The specialist partners closely with Automation Application Engineers and the broader sales team to deliver scalable, repeatable automation solutions.

Duties & Responsibilities

• OEM Account Development & Growth: develop and expand relationships with OEM customers by identifying design‑in opportunities, platform standardization initiatives, and long‑term automation strategies.
• Solution‑Based Sales Leadership: lead the commercial sales process for automation opportunities, coordinating technical support from Automation Application Engineers while maintaining ownership of opportunity strategy, pricing, and closure.
• Platform Positioning & Design‑In: position industrial controls and automation solutions—including PLCs, HMIs, drives, motion, safety, and industrial networking—within OEM machine architectures to support scalable and repeatable designs.
• Sales Team Partnership & OEM Support: partner with existing sales team members to support established OEM customers by providing automation expertise, assisting with design‑in efforts, and identifying expansion opportunities while respecting existing account ownership.
• Market & Competitive Awareness: maintain awareness of OEM market trends, machine standards, and competitive automation platforms to strengthen solution positioning and customer value.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or related field (or equivalent relevant experience).
• Experience: 5+ years in industrial automation sales, OEM business development, or technical sales. Experience working with machine builders or OEM customers preferred.
• Technical Knowledge: working knowledge of industrial automation technologies including PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, motion control, and industrial communications. Familiarity with leading automation platforms and competitive solutions.
• Professional Skills: strong consultative selling and relationship‑building skills with the ability to manage long sales cycles and influence early design decisions. Effective communication with both technical and commercial stakeholders.

Benefits

• Paid time off
• Paid parental leave
• 401(k) retirement savings with company match
• Professional and personal development programs
• Opportunity to become a shareholder
• Employer‑paid short‑ and long‑term disability
• Employer‑paid life insurance for spouse and dependents
• Robust wellness program
• Gym reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

We’re proud to be a military‑friendly company, and our many employee resource groups (ERGs) help you make connections and feel supported.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Sonepar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, marital status, family responsibilities, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, protection status, protected veteran or military status, or any other categories protected by federal, state or local law.

Sonepar and our family of brands are committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with our commitment, we will take the steps to assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. Accordingly, if a reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the position, or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please call 843-745-2420 or email [e-mail].

Applicants and employees are protected under Federal law from discrimination. To learn more.

Pay Transparency Non‑Discrimination Provision: Sonepar follows Executive Order 11246, including the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision. To learn more.