Sales Specialist

Company Overview

A North America–based business unit within a global manufacturing organization is seeking a bilingual Sales & Purchasing Support Specialist. This role supports both sales and purchasing teams by handling administrative tasks, customer communication, data entry, and coordination between U.S. staff and Japan-based counterparts. This is an entry-level, non-exempt role ideal for individuals with strong motivation, basic PC skills, and the ability to communicate in both English and Japanese.

Position Summary

This role provides operational, administrative, and coordination support for the Sales and Purchasing Department. Responsibilities include handling purchase orders, communication with customers and internal teams, maintaining system data, assisting with prototyping activities, and supporting day-to-day departmental tasks. Some written/oral Japanese–English translation support will be required.

Key Responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities (Approx. 80%)

• Maintain positive communication with customers and internal teams.
• Provide administrative support for new model and minor model activities.
• Manage purchase orders and serve as contact for assigned customer accounts.
• Maintain, update, and audit information in internal systems (e.g., Plex).
• Support communication with customer R&D teams, including prototyping coordination.

Additional Responsibilities (Approx. 20%)

• Issue internal communication notices as needed.
• Track and control sales activity related to prototyping.
• Set up parts and data in ERP systems.
• Support approval of BOM activations.
• Assist with IMDS-related tasks.
• Assist with annual budgeting activities for Sales & Purchasing.
• Provide general support to the Sales & Purchasing Manager.

Qualifications

Required:

• English and Japanese bilingual ability (expert reading/writing preferred; simultaneous interpretation not required).
• Strong computer skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and maintain accuracy under varying conditions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work on-site; must be eligible to work in the U.S.
• Ability to sit, use a computer, and communicate frequently as part of daily functions.

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in business or related field, or prior experience in sales, purchasing, or administrative support.
• Experience in manufacturing or automotive-related industries.
• Ability to read basic part drawings.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel occasionally.

Other Details

This position frequently interacts with local team members, Japan-based staff, and customers. Some Japanese–English translation/interpretation will occur but does not require professional-level interpreting skills.

To apply, please email your resume to dpentony@pasona.com and include the Job Title and Number.