The IT hardware Sales Associate is an entry-level sales and purchasing position designed for individuals interested in building a career in enterprise IT hardware sales. During an initial training period, the Product Trader will learn IT enterprise products, pricing strategies, sourcing techniques, inventory management, and customer relationship development while working alongside experienced Product Managers.
As knowledge and experience grow, the Product Trader will progressively assume responsibility for purchasing inventory, developing customer accounts, negotiating transactions, and generating profitable sales.
Success in this role requires curiosity, strong communication skills, a competitive mindset, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment.
Training & Development
During the first 6–12 months, the Sales Associate will receive structured training that includes:
- Server, storage, networking, and workstation product knowledge
- Understanding enterprise IT hardware markets
- Sales and negotiation techniques
- Inventory sourcing and purchasing strategies
- Pricing and market analysis
- CRM and sales process training
- Customer relationship management
- Quote preparation and order management
- Working with Technical, Receiving, Customer Service, and Shipping teams
- Company systems, policies, and industry best practices
As proficiency increases, responsibilities will expand based on demonstrated performance.
Primary Responsibilities:
Sales Development
- Prospect for new customers through phone, email, LinkedIn, referrals, and networking.
- Learn how to qualify sales opportunities and identify customer needs.
- Prepare quotes under the guidance of senior Product Managers.
- Follow up on leads and maintain regular customer communication.
- Build long-term relationships that generate repeat business.
Inventory Sourcing
- Learn how to identify profitable purchasing opportunities.
- Research pricing and market trends.
- Develop relationships with brokers, distributors, leasing companies, ITADs, VARs, and end users.
- Assist in purchasing IT enterprise equipment.
- Support inventory management by helping maintain healthy inventory levels.
Product Knowledge
Develop working knowledge of:
- Servers
- Storage Solutions
- Networking Equipment
- Enterprise Components and Options
- Learn how to recommend the right solutions based on customer requirements.
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with Product Managers, Technical staff, Customer Service, Receiving, Purchasing, and Shipping.
- Assist with customer projects and special requests.
- Participate in sales meetings and ongoing product training.
- Share market information and contribute ideas that improve sales and operations.
Customer Service
- Respond professionally to customer inquiries.
- Provide accurate and timely communication throughout the sales process.
- Assist in resolving customer concerns while delivering an outstanding customer experience.
Performance Expectations
During the training period, performance will be evaluated on:
- Product knowledge development
- Initiative and willingness to learn
- Communication skills
- Customer responsiveness
- Prospecting activity
- Accuracy of work
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Professionalism
- Achievement of training milestones
After successful completion of training, additional performance metrics will include:
- Gross margin generated
- Sales revenue
- Inventory purchases
- New customer acquisition
- Repeat business
- Quote conversion rate
- Inventory turns
Qualifications:
Required
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Strong interest in sales, technology, or business development
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to learn technical products quickly
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic computer applications
- Self-motivated with a positive attitude and strong work ethic
Preferred
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or related field
- Sales, retail, customer service, or technology experience
- Interest in enterprise IT hardware and infrastructure
Career Path
This position is designed to develop future Product Managers
Successful Product Traders who consistently demonstrate strong product knowledge, sales ability, sourcing skills, and customer relationship management may advance into an independent Product Manager role with increased earning potential and responsibility.
Compensation: $40,000-$60,000 (depending on experience) +Incentive pay(performance-based)
Pay: $40,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person