Location:
Based anywhere in our Midwest sales territory (IA, NE, KS, MO, S. IL, SD)
Job Summary:
The Business Development & Product Specialist for pneumatic solutions will play a critical role in leading the growth of Sukup Innovations' automation offerings, with a strong focus on the expanding partnership with SMC, the global leader in pneumatics. This position blends business development, technical consulting, and product support to drive adoption of advanced pneumatic and electric automation technologies
Company Vision:
Ramco will be a place where employees collaborate and commit to providing our clients with excellent automation solutions. We will be a consultant and partner to our clients by putting them first, brining value to their organization, and customizing our service to their needs. We will deliver value-based solutions by utilizing premier products and the knowledge and expertise of our employees. We will stay on the cutting edge of technology and educate our clients. We will define excellence as an automation solutions provider.
Essential Job Requirements:
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities across OEMs, end users, and system integrators within assigned the Midwest territory
- Act as a technical expert on pneumatic and electric automation products, with an emphasis on SMC solutions
- Support customers with application design, product selection, configuration, and on-site troubleshooting
- Deliver product training sessions and live demonstrations for both internal teams and customers
- Collaborate closely with sales, engineering, vendor partners, and internal teams to align strategies and drive product adoption
- Partner with the Enhanced Services team to support valve assembly projects, including design input, quoting, and specification review
- Travel regularly within the territory (primarily day trips by car), with occasional overnight travel for customer meetings, factory training, and events
- Maintain accurate records of sales activities, customer interactions, and project progress using CRM software
- Demonstrate a collaborative, ethical, and customer-focused mindset in all interactions
Qualifications/Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Industrial Technology, Business, or a related field preferred
- Equivalent relevant experience will also be considered
- Experience in technical sales, product support, or automation engineering
- Strong understanding of pneumatic systems and components
- Familiarity with SMC products is a plus
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook) and CRM tools
- Ability to read, write, and communicate clearly in English
- Valid driver's license and an acceptable motor vehicle record
- Skills & Competencies
- Confident communicator with both engineers and business leaders
- Highly organized and self-motivated, with the ability to manage time and sales pipeline independently
- Strong problem-solving skills and a consultative approach to customer engagement
- Professional, ethical, and team-oriented mindset
- Comfortable presenting and collaborating across technical and non-technical audiences
- Customer-focused with a commitment to delivering value-based solutions
About Sukup Innovations:
Sukup Innovations is a dynamic platform company driving innovation across automation, technology, and entrepreneurship through its family of businesses including Ramco Innovations, Maple Studios, and Synk. Partnering with industry leaders like SMC, we deliver expert solutions that address real-world challenges. Our collaborative culture fosters passionate employees who are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the automation industry and beyond.
*must be eligible
Equal Opportunity Employer
It is, and will continue to be, the policy of Sukup Manufacturing Co. to practice a program of equal employment designed to assure that all employment decisions and advancement opportunities are made available to all employees and applicants on the basis of individual qualifications and without unlawful regard to race, religion, veteran status, national origin, disability, age or sex.
In addition to providing equal employment opportunities, it is also our policy to provide an environment free from unlawful harassment, including sexual harassment. Any alleged violation of this policy will be investigated and disciplinary action will follow as required.