Inside Specification Sales

Southern California Illumination Lighting Solutions; Irvine (CA); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare

401(k)

Flexible schedule

Competitive compensation package

Quarterly team events

Job summary

Southern California Illumination Lighting Solutions is seeking a design-focused Inside Specification Sales associate. This role supports architects, lighting designers, and electrical engineers in creating lighting specifications. You'll manage a project pipeline of $3–5M, ensuring alignment with design intent while providing exceptional client service. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree, 5+ years experience in the industry, and strong project management skills. The compensation package includes a salary between $60-$90K, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in lighting or design/construction industry.
• Strong understanding of design process and construction documentation.
• Background in visual communication highly valued.

Responsibilities

• Partner with architects and designers to refine specifications.
• Manage project documentation and client communication.
• Prepare quotes and project budgets to support decision-making.

Skills

Project management skills

Communication skills

Lighting industry knowledge

Organizational skills

Technical research skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in architecture, Interior Design, Lighting Design, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Bluebeam

CRM systems

Job description

We are seeking a design-focused Inside Specification Sales to join our team. This role supports architects, lighting designers, and electrical engineers in developing lighting and controls specifications from early design through construction. The associate partners with our sales team and manufacturer representatives to provide product solutions, technical support, and project coordination—ensuring every specification aligns with design intent, performance goals, and budget.This position requires independence in managing complex projects and clients, with responsibility for an annual project pipeline of $3–5M. Success depends on balancing multiple priorities while delivering outstanding service and maintaining attention to detail.At SCI, we foster a collaborative culture that values design thinking, innovation, and problem-solving. The ideal candidate is creative, competitive, detail-oriented, and passionate about design and construction. They are personable, organized, and able to work independently while thriving in a team environment. With strong familiarity in the lighting industry, they are confident managing a robust project pipeline and navigating complex requirements with accuracy and professionalism.

What You’ll Do in This Role:

• Partner with architects, lighting designers, and electrical engineers to refine lighting and controls specifications that meet project requirements.
• Manage project documentation, client communication, and deliverables while tracking multiple projects from concept through construction completion.
• Research and recommend products that balance performance, aesthetics, and budget.
• Coordinate with manufacturers to obtain pricing, technical data, samples, and availability information.
• Prepare clear, accurate quotes and project budgets to support client decision-making and financial planning.
• Maintain organized, up-to-date records in CRM and project management systems.
• Provide exceptional client service through proactive communication and follow-up.
• Support relationship management by contributing to marketing initiatives, inside sales efforts, and promotion of new products.
• Help achieve sales goals by driving engagement, supporting initiatives, and strengthening client partnerships.

What You’ll Bring to the Team:

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, Interior Design, Lighting Design, Engineering, or related field preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in lighting, architectural products, or the design/construction industry.
• Strong understanding of the design process and construction documentation across architectural, electrical, structural, and construction disciplines.
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple active projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present confidently to design professionals.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Teams, and Bluebeam; familiarity with CRM systems preferred.
• Solid knowledge of lighting and controls, with familiarity in architecture, engineering, or construction.
• Background in visual communication highly valued – experience creating product options, presentations, or deliverables using Adobe, Canva, Bluebeam, or similar tools.

Why Join SCI?

• Salary range: $60-$90K annually, depending on experience.
• Work creatively and independently with the support of SCI’s strong internal team and manufacturer partners.
• Join a collaborative culture that values design thinking, innovation, and professional growth.
• Contribute to high-profile projects across Southern California while building meaningful relationships with leading architects, lighting designers, and engineers.
• Access a competitive compensation package with base salary, commission, and bonus opportunities.
• Receive comprehensive benefits including healthcare, 401(k), and perks that support work-life balance.
• Enjoy a people-first environment with summer hours, quarterly team events, an annual summit, and team-building and philanthropic activities.
• Benefit from a hybrid schedule based in either Irvine or Los Angeles, with flexibility to attend client, industry, and educational events.