Counter Sales Associate

Company Overview

Watkins, a NEBCO Company, provides high-quality concrete and masonry building materials to residential and commercial markets across Nebraska and the surrounding region. With decades of experience serving the construction industry, Watkins is fundamental to building Nebraska, with operations in Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, and Kearney. Watkins manufactures and distributes standard and architectural concrete block, segmental retaining wall systems, concrete pavers, and a wide range of related building materials, including brick, stone, exterior finishes, fabricated rebar, sealers, tools, and other construction essentials. Through automated manufacturing facilities, multiple distribution locations, and indoor and outdoor showrooms, Watkins supports contractors, commercial builders, and do-it-yourself customers alike. Built on a foundation of quality products and dependable service, Watkins is committed to meeting the needs of today’s builders and the future of construction.

About the role

The person in this position provides excellent customer service by assisting customers promptly and courteously with their questions, purchases and efficient processing of their orders by performing the following duties. This position may be required to work Saturday hours. Must abide by Company Safety Program and Policies, while performing duties safely.

Responsibilities

• Establishes and maintains good relations with customers by providing courteous, efficient, and professional service.
• Develops a working knowledge of products manufactured and/or distributed by Watkins.
• Answers telephones professionally and pleasantly, assisting customers, taking orders and providing excellent customer service.
• Affirms accuracy, efficiency and attention are given to the customer in a professional and responsive manner.
• Data entry and retrieval on computer system, including entering of customer orders, sister company transfers, obtain quotation information, inventory information and pricing.
• Answers regarding customer service inquiries regarding Watkins products, including general product information, pricing, and complaints in a professional and responsive manner.
• Maintains accountability of customer inquiries until answered, solved and closed.
• Develops a working knowledge of new products.
• Continuously updates product knowledge through any available resources.
• Stays informed and educated as to product inventory and applicability.
• Knows location and availability of merchandise.
• Assists sales staff with sales quotes, mailings, or any account research as needed.
• Provides product/job quotes as appropriate.
• Assists in handling customer complaints and concerns and makes sure the problem is corrected to the customer’s satisfaction.
• Knows and follows credit card and check authorization policies and procedures.
• Knows the warning signs that could indicate bad checks, poor credit and business risks.
• Conducts self in a professional and ethical manner at all times.
• Treats external and internal customers and associates with courtesy and respect.
• Assists customers in identifying the specific product they are looking for based on their requirements and suggests alternatives if required and/or up-selling of related product(s).
• Stocks displays and shelves with proper products, assures items are priced and up to date literature is maintained.
• Keeps showroom stocked, clean and neat.
• Assures SDS forms are maintained and up to date for accurate information and immediate review.
• Keeps mailings, price lists and sales history updated on computer as needed.
• Maintains neat, clean and professional personal appearance.
• Generates delivery and pick up orders for cash sale customers and charge accounts.

Requirements

• High School education or equivalent GED
• Six months related experience in construction merchandising, customer service, or sales
• Valid Driver’s License

Qualifications

• Knowledge of the construction product line we handle, including application, operational and safety features, benefits, accessories, and how it compares to like products.
• Ability to accurately add, subtract, multiply, divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
• Ability to compute rate, ratio, percent, and square footage.
• Proficient in Microsoft Programs, such as Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Capability of learning and using related computer programs, such as Lawson or SAP.
• 10 key calculator skills and ability to accurately key information to the computer.

Skills

• Strong customer service attitude and ability to deal directly with customers for a large portion of the day.
• Good attention to detail capabilities and be customer oriented.
• Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Follows through on requests and assignments.
• Problem resolution and creative thinking skills.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
• Ability to read and comprehend office procedures, instructions, correspondence, and memos.
• Ability to write routine business correspondence.
• Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.
• Good listening skills.
• Willingness to learn and apply concepts related to the role of the position.
• Willingness to attend sales seminars.
• Ability to occasionally move and/or lift up to 100 pounds.

Benefits

• Retirement Plans
• PAID Holidays
• Insurance Benefits
• Wellness Program - with the opportunity to earn five additional days off.
• PAID Time Off
• On the Job Training