Sales Engineer - Toyota

About the position

Daifuku Automotive America Corporation is a leader in Design, Manufacturing, Installation and Support of automotive automation/material handling systems in North America. The company is currently seeking an experienced Sales Engineer with 5–10 years of experience selling large Capex projects to Automotive OEMs, preferably with direct experience working with Toyota. Proven success in managing strategic accounts and complex sales cycles. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of material handling, conveyance, robotics, and AGV solutions in the automotive marketplace for the facility in Lexington, KY. Daifuku Automotive America Corporation promotes and supports both individual and team success by providing opportunities to expand your skills and build on your capabilities. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to a culturally rich workforce and proud of our diversity in background, experience and origin. Safety is part of our core values; we stress the importance to our employees by enforcing 5S and daily safety audits.

Responsibilities

  • Account Management: Maintain and expand Daifuku’s business with Toyota North America. Develop strong relationships with key decision-makers in purchasing, engineering, and plant operations across Toyota facilities.
  • Customer-Centric Sales: Understand Toyota’s unique corporate culture and operational philosophy (e.g., Kaizen, Genchi Genbutsu, Respect for People). Align Daifuku solutions with Toyota’s strategic goals and manufacturing principles.
  • Technical Expertise: Present and propose material handling, conveyance, intralogistics, and AGV solutions tailored to Toyota’s needs. Lead technical discussions and site evaluations to ensure optimal solution fit.
  • Bid and Proposal Management: Lead responses to Toyota RFQs/RFPs, ensuring proposals meet all technical and commercial requirements. Collaborate with internal teams to develop accurate pricing, scope, and contract terms.
  • Internal Collaboration: Work cross-functionally with Engineering, Estimating, Marketing, and Operations to develop products and service solutions that meet clients' strategic needs. Support product development initiatives aligned with Toyota’s innovation roadmap.
  • Performance Tracking: Meet or exceed KPIs related to sales growth, revenue, and gross margin for Toyota accounts.
  • Professional Development: Stay current on Toyota’s evolving business strategies and manufacturing technologies. Attend industry events and maintain technical proficiency through training and networking.
  • Travel and Flexibility: Hybrid work model (office/home-based). Travel to Toyota facilities and internal meetings as needed (up to 50%).

Requirements

  • Deep understanding of Toyota’s corporate culture and decision-making processes.
  • Strong technical acumen in automation and material handling systems.
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
  • Proficiency with Salesforce.com and project estimation tools.
  • Ability to travel nationally and internationally.
  • Bachelor’s degree in business, Engineering (Mechanical or Electrical preferred), related field, or equivalent experience.
  • 5–10 years of experience selling large Capex projects to Automotive OEMs, preferably with direct experience working with Toyota.
  • Proven success in managing strategic accounts and complex sales cycles.

Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision available day one
  • Optional Critical Illness and Accident Insurance
  • FSA/ HSA
  • Company provided life and disability plans
  • 401K: Fidelity
  • 7 Paid sick days (prorated according to start date)
  • 13 paid vacation days (prorated according to start date)
  • 11 paid holidays
  • Yearly performance bonuses
  • PPE Reimbursement
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