Outside Sales Representative - Material Handling Systems at Cogent Analytics – Chicago, Illinois

The Sales Representative is responsible for generating new business opportunities, developing customer relationships, and converting qualified opportunities into profitable, well-executed projects. Reporting to the General Manager or Owner, this role owns front-end sales activity, opportunity qualification, and customer engagement while working closely with Internal Sales, Project Management, and Operations. The Sales Representative plays a critical role in ensuring the company grows intentionally and profitably.

• Execute consistent outbound sales activity including calls, visits, and follow-ups aligned with weekly activity targets.
• Identify, pursue, and develop new customer relationships and opportunities.
• Maintain regular onsite presence and proactive customer engagement.

• Qualify opportunities based on scope, fit, timing, and profitability.
• Enter and maintain all opportunities in the CRM with complete and accurate data.
• Maintain clear next steps and follow-up dates for every active opportunity.

• Collaborate with Internal Sales, Design, and Engineering to define appropriate solutions.
• Communicate Progressive Handling’s value proposition clearly to customers.
• Support proposal development and decision-making through timely follow-up.

• Ensure all opportunities align with breakeven and margin requirements.
• Support pricing discipline by pursuing work that fits capacity and margin targets.
• Avoid selling work that creates execution or profitability risk.

• Coordinate handoff of won work to Internal Sales and Project Management.
• Support smooth transition from sale to execution with clear expectations.
• Remain engaged to support customer satisfaction and long-term relationships.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred, or equivalent experience.
• 3 - 7 years of experience in outside sales, business development, or account management.
• Experience selling industrial, material handling, or project-based solutions preferred.
• Comfort using CRM systems and structured sales tools.