Job Title: Entry Level Sales Development Representative (SDR)

Location: Lincolnshire, IL
Department: Sales
Reports To: Sale & Portfolio Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time

About KNUTH Machine Tools USA

KNUTH Machine Tools USA is a leading supplier of metalworking machinery and solutions for manufacturers across North America. Backed by over 100 years of global experience, KNUTH delivers high-quality CNC and conventional machine tools, automation solutions, and expert support to job shops, OEMs, and industrial manufacturers.

Position Overview

The Sales Development Representative (SDR) plays a critical role in KNUTH’s sales organization by identifying, qualifying, and developing new sales opportunities. This position is ideal for a motivated, coachable individual looking to start a career in B2B industrial sales and grow into a full Sales Engineer or Regional Sales Manager role.

The SDR is responsible for outbound prospecting, inbound lead follow-up, customer qualification, and scheduling qualified meetings for the sales team.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct outbound prospecting via phone, email, and LinkedIn to identify potential customers
• Follow up on inbound leads from trade shows, website inquiries, marketing campaigns, and events
• Qualify prospects by understanding customer needs, applications, and purchasing timelines
• Schedule qualified meetings and product discussions for Sales Engineers and Regional Sales Managers
• Maintain accurate activity and lead data in CRM (calls, emails, notes, next steps)
• Collaborate with marketing and sales teams to support campaigns, promotions, and territory initiatives
• Learn KNUTH machine tool offerings, industries served, and common manufacturing applications
• Meet or exceed daily activity goals and monthly qualified lead targets
• Represent the KNUTH brand with professionalism and enthusiasm in all customer interactions

Qualifications & Skills

Required:

• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Confidence and professionalism on the phone
• Self-motivated with a strong work ethic and desire to learn
• Ability to handle objections and navigate conversations with manufacturing professionals
• Basic computer proficiency (CRM, email, Microsoft Office / Google Workspace)

What We Offer

• Competitive base salary + incentive bonuses
• Clear career path into Sales Engineer or Regional Sales roles
• Hands-on training in CNC machinery, manufacturing applications, and consultative sales
• Supportive team environment with ongoing coaching and mentorship
• Opportunity to grow with a well-established global machine tool brand

Benefits

- Competitive and performance-based compensation including holiday bonus

- Benefits package includes 100% company paid health (BCBS), dental and life insurance plan, 401K with 4% match, laptop & company paid cell phone

- 11 Paid Holidays

- Paid Vacation/Sick Time

Pay: $42,500.00 - $45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person