Sales engineers
sell a variety of complex scientific
and technological products
or services to businesses—
including the latest information
technology systems…
manufacturing equipment…
and scientific instruments, among others.
Like most salespeople,
sales engineers try to interest clients
in their products or services,
negotiate prices, and complete sales.
But as trained engineers or scientists,
they also have extensive technical knowledge
of the products’ parts and functions
and understand the scientific processes
behind their products.
Sales engineers give technical presentations
where they describe the benefits
and competitive edge of their products,
and explain how their product
will solve a customer’s problem.
They may also work with clients
to modify or customize a product
to their needs.
Some work for the manufacturer
of a product…
while others work for
independent sales firms.
Most sales engineers travel…
whether locally within a small region…
for weeks at a time across several states…
or even internationally.
The job can be stressful
since income and job security
often depend directly on successful deals.
Engineers typically work full time
and many work over 40 hours a week
to meet client needs
and achieve sales goals.
Sales engineers typically need
a bachelor’s degree in engineering,
though a science or business degree
and technical knowledge may suffice.
For some positions, sales experience
along with technical experience
or training may be sufficient.