Inside Sales Associate

Gerken Companies; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits package

401(k) retirement plan with company match

Paid Time Off (PTO)

YMCA membership at no cost for employees

Company-paid life insurance

Job summary

Gerken Companies is seeking an Inside Sales Associate for their Akron, Ohio location. This full-time role requires providing construction product solutions, answering customer inquiries, and ensuring satisfaction through effective communication. Duties include entering orders, recommending products, and handling cash sales. A high school diploma and two years of sales or customer service experience are preferred. Competitive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a 401(k) retirement plan.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of inside sales, retail, or customer service experience preferred.
• Building materials or construction-related experience is a plus, but not required.

Responsibilities

• Answer customer questions and recommend appropriate products for their projects.
• Accurately enter customer orders into the company’s order-entry system.
• Provide customers with product preparation details, application rates, pricing, safety information, and delivery timelines.
• Handle cash sales and reconcile daily transactions.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Customer-focused mindset

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Kuhlman Corporation is part of The Gerken Companies, a family of businesses built on integrity, safety, and long‑term success.

Our values guide how we work every day:

• Integrity in every customer interaction and internal collaboration
• Safety as a shared responsibility across all locations
• Shared success that creates stable, rewarding careers
• Professional development through training and advancement opportunities
• Community support because we live where we work and care about the places we serve

If you enjoy working with customers, solving problems, and being part of a fast‑paced team, this could be the opportunity for you!

About the Role

We’re hiring an Inside Sales Associate to support customers at our Akron, Ohio location by providing construction product solutions related to concrete and masonry materials. This role is customer‑facing, detail‑oriented, and essential to daily sales operations.

This is a full‑time, year‑round position.

What You’ll Do

• Answer customer questions and recommend appropriate products for their projects
• Accurately enter customer orders into the company’s order‑entry system
• Work closely with outside sales representatives on order entry and product information
• Provide customers with product preparation details, application rates, pricing, safety information, and delivery timelines
• Communicate with customers regarding delays or order updates when necessary
• Handle cash sales and reconcile daily transactions
• Process credit card payments at the sales counter
• Follow up with customers after purchases to ensure satisfaction
• Process merchandise returns
• Prepare reports related to inventory, rentals, and special orders
• Replenish showroom shelves with building materials and promotional items
• Coordinate with the Credit Department regarding past‑due or on‑hold accounts
• Resolve customer concerns professionally and effectively
• Maintain regular in‑person attendance
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, or up to 100 pounds with assistance
• Prolonged periods of sitting and standing
• Ability to safely navigate the facility, including climbing ladders
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions when required
• Willingness to work outside normal business hours as needed

What You Bring

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum of two years of inside sales, retail, or customer service experience preferred
• Building materials or construction‑related experience is a plus, but not required
• Strong communication skills, both in person and over the phone
• Customer‑focused mindset with strong attention to detail
• Ability to represent The Gerken Companies in a professional manner

What We Offer

• Competitive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Paid Time Off (PTO), holidays, and additional leave options
• Company‑paid life insurance and disability coverage
• Employee Assistance Program and other wellness benefits
• YMCA membership at no cost for employees

If you enjoy helping customers succeed and want to build a long‑term career in inside sales, we encourage you to apply!

Kuhlman Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.