Sales Engineer - OEM

Phoenixcontact; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 112,000 - 152,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401k matching

16 weeks fully paid maternity leave

10 weeks fully paid paternity leave

Job summary

Phoenixcontact is seeking a Sales Engineer (OEM) based in Chicago to drive sales by combining technical knowledge with strong interpersonal skills. Responsibilities include building relationships, identifying customer needs, and ensuring satisfaction throughout the sales process.

This role requires a four-year degree and a minimum of 1-3 years in sales, with strong engagement with assigned accounts to uncover opportunities. Phoenixcontact offers a competitive salary of $112,000 to $152,000 with generous benefits.

Qualifications

• 1 to 3 years minimum sales experience in the electronics or industrial automation marketplace.
• Experience working with distribution preferred.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Comfortable conducting regular outreach and check-ins with assigned accounts.

Responsibilities

• Meet or exceed territory sales quotas.
• Generate new opportunities within assigned accounts.
• Support the preparation of proposals and presentations.
• Collaborate with the Phoenix Contact team to align efforts.

Skills

Sales experience in electronics or industrial automation

Technical knowledge

Communication skills

Customer relationship management

Self-motivated

Education

Four-year degree in a technical discipline

Tools

CRM systems

Sales tools

Job description

Job Summary

This is a hands‑on, activity-driven role ideal for someone who is eager to learn, contribute, and grow within a dynamic team responsible for driving sales of all Phoenix Contact products by combining engineering knowledge with strong interpersonal and business skills. The Sales Engineer (OEM) plays a key role in identifying growth opportunities, building relationships with potential and existing developing customers, and supporting the sales pipeline through consistent outreach and follow-up. This role involves identifying customer needs, recommending suitable products or solutions, and providing technical support throughout the sales process. The Sales Engineer (OEM) works closely with our Channel and Field Application Engineering teams to ensure customer satisfaction and achieve sales targets. This role focuses on deepening relationships within assigned accounts, driving growth opportunities, and expanding business engagement to maximize long‑term value.

The territory for this role is West Metro Chicago and Western IL.

Responsibilities

• Meet or exceed territory sales quotas as established by the RSM and/or Vice President—Field Sales.
• Be proficient in BASE selling skills and implement to build strong customer relationships.
• Generate new opportunities within assigned accounts through ongoing communication, relationship development, and collaboration with key stakeholders.
• Support the preparation of proposals, presentations, and sales materials.
• Maintain and update CRM systems with accurate client information. Fully utilize the CRM as a communication, reporting, measurement, and tracking tool to enhance productivity.
• Collaborate with the entire Phoenix Contact team to align efforts, effectively communicate both verbally and written.
• Track and report on business development activities and performance metrics.
• Differentiate Phoenix Contact from other component vendors by building partner relationships with customers.
• Focus on the customer by averaging a minimum of 16 to 20 sales calls per week.
• Be proficient in and drive the use of all sales tools provided to support local markets.
• Work closely with Harrisburg Product teams to aid in the development of field presentations and application notes.
• Proactively utilize all resources and sales tools to maximize productivity, responsiveness, and customer delight.
• Continue personal development through an effective skill‑building program as determined by the RSM, Director of Sales, and/or the Harrisburg Training Department.
• Demonstrate technical competence on all products/solutions within the area of focus.
• Provide forecasts and reports to RSM as required.
• Independently and/or in conjunction with regional management, develop and implement effective Mutual Action Plans with assigned customer locations.
• Deliver presentations and hands‑on demonstrations of Phoenix Contact products, applications, and technology for the purpose of product sales.
• Develop and maintain a working knowledge on all Phoenix Contact products/solutions.
• Qualify and follow up on all opportunities within the assigned account portfolio.
• Follow up on all quotations within the assigned account portfolio.

Qualifications

• Four‑year degree preferred.
• Technical discipline preferred and/or equivalent experience.
• 1 to 3 years minimum sales experience in the electronics or industrial automation & controls marketplace.
• Experience working with distribution preferred.
• Comfortable conducting regular outreach and check‑ins with assigned accounts to maintain engagement and uncover new opportunities.
• Self‑motivated with the ability to learn and adapt quickly.

Essential Job Functions

• Must be able to travel via airplane.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to travel via automobile for up to six hours at a time.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.
• Must be able to travel overnight 40% as dictated by assigned territory.
• Comply with company dress code guidelines.
• Punctuality is required.
• Regular and on‑time attendance.

Perks & Benefits

Phoenix Contact offers a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401k matching, bonus plan and a generous time off package. There are also a wide variety of additional benefits available including 16 weeks fully paid maternity leave and 10 weeks fully paid paternity leave, auto allowance, life insurance, short & long‑term disability, assistance, and more! Base salary: $112,000 - $152,000. Compensation information is made available in good faith. Phoenix Contact USA reserves the right to adjust ranges based on candidate’s experience, location and internal & external equity.

Phoenix Contact is committed to the diversity of our employees. We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.