Sales engineers sell business goods or services, the selling of which requires a technical background equivalent to a baccalaureate degree in engineering.
A career objective for a sales engineer is to sell scientific and technological products or services to businesses. They generate the interest of clients in their products, negotiate a price and delivery schedule, and complete the sale.
Sales engineers make presentations about products or services to customers and prospective customers. They evaluate the customer’s needs and accordingly make recommendations or suggestions which help clients save costs or increase production.
They research new products and use their technical skills to convince customers that their products or services are not just economical but also better than the competition.
A sales engineer’s job requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, or other technical fields, with a background in science or business. Previous job experience is preferred, and continuing education programs are encouraged to keep up with ever-changing new technologies. They need technical and soft skills, should work well with others, have the ability to solve problems, and should be able to deliver complex information in an easy-to-understand way.
Sales engineer jobs are stressful, and their career may be dependent on their success in sales. They travel extensively and are away from home for several days at a time. Work hours can be long and irregular, depending on targets and client needs.
Sales engineers are a valuable asset to sales teams providing complex technical knowledge.
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
Subscribe to our Premium package and you'll unlock a wealth of extra information about your favourite careers and gain access our library of immersive 360° VR careers experience.
As a Premium user you'll find out more about the day-to-day demands of any career, what you could earn and, importantly, receive expert advice on study routes, preparation expenses, and where & what to study to fulfil your potential.