Sales Academy Trainee / Sales Representative

SMC Automation Canada, LTD; Rochester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A multinational automation company is seeking Sales Academy Trainees for an interactive training program leading to a full-time sales role. Based in Rochester, NY, this unique 12-week training covers sales skills, corporate strategies, and product knowledge, preparing candidates for a successful career in outside sales. Trainees will gain hands-on experience throughout various departments and participate in simulated customer interactions. Ideal for individuals looking to start their sales careers, this program emphasizes growth and sustainability in automation.

Benefits

401(k) Match

Company Provided Essentials

Career Growth

Employee Benefits

Company Culture

Tuition Reimbursement

Qualifications

• Good communication skills essential for engaging with customers and team members.
• Ability to learn new programs and tools.
• Preferred background includes technical education or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

• Participate in learning activities that demonstrate sales operations.
• Complete training in corporate culture and supply chain policies.
• Engage in simulated selling scenarios with leadership.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Proficiency in computer use

Curiosity and willingness to learn

Education

Two-year technical degree or equivalent work experience

Four-year degree

Job description

# Sales Academy Trainee / Sales RepresentativeRochester, NY---**PURPOSE** The SMC Sales Academy is a sales development program designed to provide training on our extensive product line, proficiency in our corporate sales strategies, familiarity with our manufacturing methods, and competency in our internal support processes. This is a full-time training role that will transition to a full-time sales position upon completion of the Sales Academy. It is an entry-level outside sales role and is perfect for candidates who are looking to start a career in sales or who are interested in making a career pivot. As SMC continues to expand, so do the opportunities for career growth across the Sales Division and beyond. The training is both classroom-based and hands-on, accommodating the varied learning styles of trainees. Unlike other sales training programs, the SMC Sales Academy provides training at our corporate headquarters in Noblesville, IN for 12 weeks. During this time, SMC provides housing at an onsite residence. Trainees learn through work experience; spending time with each of SMC’s departments working and building relationships throughout the twelve weeks at headquarters. These cross-departmental relationships and knowledge will prove invaluable within the industry. The SMC Sales Academy exists to prepare a person for a career in outside sales with SMC Corporation of America—we welcome interested individuals with all levels of experience and backgrounds to apply. The SMC Sales Academy is a great opportunity for those looking to gain an understanding of automation in manufacturing, regardless of their prior education or work experience. We are looking for curious-minded individuals who want to join a company dedicated to sustainable automation. **ESSENTIAL DUTIES** The Sales Academy Trainee will receive training ranging from sales skills development and corporate culture to SMC’s applications, product line, and target industries. They will learn about sales strategy, marketing and manufacturing production, and order fulfillment. Specifically, the trainee will be required to participate in the following training activities: • Actively participate in learning activities that demonstrate sales operations and supply chain functionality • Complete written and practical training in supply chain policy and procedures • Actively participate in learning the activities of a technical support role • Complete basic pneumatics training and other technical training as directed by SMC sales management • Review product catalogs & manuals to gain a basic understanding of SMC product • Work with our internal support team to learn how to demonstrate “best in class” customer support • Partner with experienced SMC sales professionals on customer & distributor visits • Collaboration with cohort members to present a customer pitch to SMC leadership • Complete short-term work assignments in all functional areas of the business (such as production, warehouse, customer service, etc.) • Participate in simulated selling scenarios onsite with Sales Division leadership and SMC’s successful sales team members • Cross-departmental and internal collaboration between teams to build strong relationships at headquarters that will be key to success in the field Available Branches for assignment after graduating from the SMC Sales Academy: • Atlanta, GA • Austin, TX • Birmingham, AL\* • Boston, MA • Chicago, IL • Cincinnati, OH • Cleveland, OH • Dallas, TX • Denver, CO\* • Des Moines, IA • Detroit, MI • El Paso, TX • Grand Rapids • Kansas City, MO • Knoxville, TN • Los Angeles, CA • Milwaukee, WI • Minneapolis, MN • Nashville, TN • New Jersey (multiple locations) • Philadelphia, PA • Phoenix, AZ • Portland, OR • Richmond, VA • Rochester, NY • San Jose, CA • St. Louis, MO • Some of the listed branches are satellite branches and are hiring trainees on an as-needed basis **PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT** • Fast-paced environment (includes both office and fieldwork) • Physically capable of lifting SMC products and displays up to 50 lbs. **MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS** • A two-year technical degree or equivalent work experience, or a four (4) year degree, is preferred. • Excellent communication skills. • Proficient in the use of computers and ability to learn new programs and tools as required The Sales Academy has two cohorts per year: Each training period is about 12 weeks We are currently recruiting for the January 2026 cohort.401(k) MatchCompany Provided EssentialsCareer GrowthEmployee BenefitsCompany CultureTuition Reimbursement