About the RoleForesight Automation and Custom Machines is seeking a technically driven Technical Sales Account Manager to join our growing team. This role is ideal for a controls or industrial automation professional who is ready to apply their hands-on technical background in a customer-facing capacity - and who thrives on solving complex problems for industrial clients.
The Technical Sales Account Manager will be the technical face of Foresight to our customers, working directly with plant engineers and operations teams to assess needs, scope solutions, and deliver automation technology that drives measurable results. You will work side-by-side with our engineering and project management teams throughout the entire sales cycle - from first contact through proposal, negotiation, and close.
Key Responsibilities- Conduct site visits and application assessments to understand customer equipment, processes, and control system requirements.
- Develop technical proposals, bills of material, and project cost estimates in collaboration with Foresight's controls engineers and project managers.
- Prepare Statements of Work (SOWs) that clearly define project scope, deliverables, schedule, and assumptions for each engagement.
- Scope and present automation solutions including PLC/HMI systems, VFD and motor control, custom machinery, and system integration.
- Manage the full sales cycle from lead generation and prospecting to contract negotiation and close.
- Build and maintain strong long-term relationships with plant engineers, maintenance managers, and operations leadership at key accounts.
- Identify new business opportunities and expansion potential within the existing customer base.
- Meet and exceed sales targets and performance goals.
- Maintain accurate records of sales activities, pipeline forecasts, and client communications.
- Represent Foresight Automation at industry trade shows, networking events, and client meetings.
- Stay current on emerging trends in automation, industrial controls, and custom manufacturing solutions.
Qualifications & Skills- 3+ years of hands-on experience in controls, industrial automation, systems integration, or technical sales.
- Working knowledge of PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent), HMI configuration, VFDs, and industrial networking (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, or Profinet).
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and mechanical drawings.
- Proven ability to translate customer operational challenges into well-scoped technical solutions and Statements of Work (SOWs).
- Experience developing technical cost estimates including labor, materials, and subcontractor requirements for automation and controls projects.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills - comfortable working with both engineering teams and plant leadership.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple accounts, and drive results in a consultative sales environment.
- Proficiency with sales tracking tools.
- Valid driver's license and willingness to travel for client meetings and site visits.
