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Industrial Automation & Data Sales Engineer

Direct Companies

Sioux Falls, SD

Posted/Updated: Today

Job Description

Join Our Team as an Industrial Automation & Data Sales Engineer!

Direct Companies is currently seeking an Industrial Automation & Data Sales Engineer to join our Automation team. This role is responsible for driving new business development and expanding existing client relationships by delivering innovative industrial automation and data management solutions. You will serve as a trusted advisor to industrial and manufacturing customers, helping them leverage automation, controls, and data-driven insights to improve operational performance.

As an Industrial Automation & Data Sales Engineer, you will play a critical role in connecting client challenges with scalable automation and digital solutions—guiding opportunities from initial discovery through proposal development and long-term account growth.


Position Summary

The Industrial Automation & Data Sales Engineer is responsible for executing the full sales and client pursuit process, including introduction, qualification, discovery, education, solution alignment, and issue resolution. This role requires a strong understanding of industrial automation systems, controls integration, and data management platforms, along with the ability to translate technical capabilities into business value.

You will collaborate closely with engineering, technical teams, and internal stakeholders to develop accurate scopes, resolve technical considerations, and deliver professional sales materials that support strategic growth. This position also plays a key role in strengthening client relationships, expanding automation and data services within existing accounts, and promoting Direct Companies in the marketplace.


Key Responsibilities

New Business Development & Sales Execution

  • Execute the full sales/client pursuit process from initial introduction through qualification, solution development, and close

  • Conduct discovery conversations to identify automation and data improvement opportunities

  • Leverage internal engineering and technical resources to develop accurate scopes and comprehensive sales deliverables

  • Identify, qualify, and expand opportunities within existing client accounts

  • Document and manage all leads and opportunities within the sales pipeline, maintaining accurate reporting

  • Proactively communicate client feedback, competitive insights, risks, and growth opportunities to Sales Management and internal stakeholders

Automation & Data Client Relationship Management

  • Maintain timely, professional written and verbal communication with clients in all situations

  • Accept, document, and drive resolution of client issues related to automation and data management services

  • Coordinate effectively with internal engineering and technical teams while maintaining ownership of client communication

  • Prepare and deliver accurate, complete, and professional proposals, presentations, and related sales materials

  • Strengthen long-term client relationships through strategic account development and value-based engagement

Brand Awareness & Industry Representation

  • Identify opportunities to promote Direct Companies’ automation and data services in the marketplace

  • Represent Direct Companies at trade shows, conferences, client events, and approved networking functions

  • Consistently communicate accurate, current, and effective messaging about our services, capabilities, and culture


Minimum Qualifications

  • High School diploma, GED, or equivalent

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation, system integration, or technical sales

  • Working knowledge of PLCs, DCS systems, SCADA platforms, industrial networking, and data integration concepts

  • Strong understanding of automation architecture and operational data environments

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

  • Ability to manage multiple opportunities and priorities simultaneously

  • Self-driven, relationship-oriented professional with strong organizational skills


Preferred Qualifications

  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Technology, or related field

  • Experience with industrial data platforms, reporting systems, or digital transformation initiatives

  • Previous experience in solution-based or consultative technical sales

  • Experience in manufacturing, water/wastewater, or industrial processing environments

  • Strong presentation and executive-level communication skills


Why Join Us?

At Direct Companies, you’ll join a collaborative, technically strong team delivering high-impact automation and data-driven solutions across diverse industries. If you enjoy combining technical expertise with relationship-building and strategic growth—and thrive at the intersection of automation and operational data—we’d love to hear from you.

Apply Today!

Direct Companies
2320 West 54th Street North
Sioux Falls, SD 57107