Location: Rosemont, IL
Classification: Exempt
Work Schedule: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Work Arrangement: Hybrid — 3 days in the office and 2 days remote per week
Industry: International Trading / Automotive Components
An international trading company is seeking a Junior Sales Representative with knowledge of automotive parts and components and prior sales experience in the automotive components industry.
This role focuses on building and maintaining strong relationships with existing U.S. automotive customers, including Ford and GM, while supporting day-to-day sales and commercial operations. The position does not involve acquiring new customers.
Key Responsibilities
- Build and maintain strong relationships with existing customers, including Ford and GM, through timely, professional communication and reliable follow-through.
- Support existing automotive component programs through supplier coordination, pricing administration, and internal follow-up.
- Coordinate requests for quotation (RFQs), prepare proposals, and support opportunities to expand business with existing customers.
- Track customer and supplier inquiries, coordinate responses, and escalate issues as needed.
- Maintain pricing records, review invoices for accuracy, resolve discrepancies, and follow up on accounts receivable.
- Support purchase orders, sales contracts, supply agreements, and invoice processing using SAP or a similar ERP system.
- Prepare sales reports, forecasts, business analyses, and updates for customer meetings and internal reviews.
- Maintain customer and supplier portals, including specifications, drawings, RFQs, and quality documentation.
- Coordinate quality-related communication and track corrective actions between customers and suppliers.
- Collaborate with sales, logistics, accounting, and operations teams to support daily business activities and improve internal processes.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
- A minimum of 1–3 years of relevant experience, including sales experience in the automotive parts or components industry.
- Knowledge of automotive parts and components.
- A background in mechanical engineering, particularly in automotive applications, is preferred.
- Experience working with OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, or manufacturing customers is a plus.
- Experience with engine components, casting, or forging is a plus.
- Excellent English proficiency, with the ability to communicate fluently, naturally, and accurately and build strong relationships with U.S. customers.
- Japanese language skills are a plus but are not required.
- Strong communication, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- High attention to detail, reliability, and follow-through.
- Ability to coordinate with internal and external stakeholders in a multicultural business environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, AI tools, and other business IT systems.
- Willingness and ability to travel up to approximately 25% for customer and supplier visits.
Work Environment
This role involves prolonged computer and desk work, use of standard office equipment, and occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable law.
