Jobs · Sales · Illinois

Entry-Level Transportation Sales Representative

CJ Logistics America · Des Plaines, IL · 1 wk ago
Sales$67k–$75k/yrVolunteer

About the Role

We are seeking an energetic and goal-driven Entry-Level Transportation Sales Representative to join our growing logistics team. In this role, you will build relationships with prospective clients, coordinate freight movements, and manage day-to-day account operations. This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive individual looking to launch a rewarding career in supply chain and logistics.

What You'll Do

Business Development & Communication

  • Actively prospect mid-market and emerging accounts ($25M–$250M revenue) where supply chain execution directly impacts shelf presence and retail success
  • Build relationships with fast-growing businesses spending $2.5M to $25M on freight, helping them optimize their inbound and outbound transportation networks
  • Identify and prospect potential freight clients through cold calls, email outreach, and market research
  • Collaborate with senior sales reps to pitch logistics solutions and negotiate competitive shipping rates
  • Communicate regularly with active customers to provide status updates and gather feedback on service quality

Operations & Technical Execution

  • Utilize internal transportation management software (TMS) and CRM tools to track leads and log daily sales activity
  • Coordinate directly with carrier operations teams to schedule pickups, monitor shipments, and resolve transit delays
  • Demonstrate a strong willingness to learn new logistics software, industry trends, and freight pricing models

Account Administration & Organization

  • Prepare basic freight quotes, rate proposals, and sales presentations for prospective accounts
  • Organize and maintain accurate customer profiles, load documentation, and billing files
  • Track daily activity metrics to ensure personal performance aligns with overarching team sales goals

Leadership & Initiative

  • Take ownership of assigned operational tasks and proactively identify ways to streamline client workflows

Requirements

  • Bachelor's Degree in Business, Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related discipline (or equivalent practical experience)
  • 0–2 years of experience in customer service, retail, sales internships, or client-facing roles
  • Strong desire to build a career in sales, with an eagerness to learn sales strategies and industry processes
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to build rapport and engage effectively with potential clients
  • Strong organizational skills and detail-orientation to manage daily outreach and lead tracking
  • Problem-solving mindset with an aptitude for learning customer needs and recommending practical solutions
  • Familiarity or willingness to learn CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) and sales communication tools
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
  • Strong active listening skills to understand prospective clients' goals, priorities, and pain points

Qualifications

  • We are especially eager to bring on talent who understand the fast-paced nature of CPG, Food & Beverage, and retail supply chains
  • Candidates who appreciate the critical importance of on-time delivery, compliance, and proactive communication in high-velocity freight environments will be a natural fit for our team
  • Internship experience in sales, business development, or account management

Schedule

  • Hybrid work schedule with 4 days in-office in Des Plaines, IL and one day remote
  • Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Occasional travel required for training, customer meetings, or industry events (up to 10–15%)
  • Flexible hours may occasionally be required to support client needs

Pay & Benefits

Your base pay is one part of your total compensation package. We anticipate this role to pay a base salary between $66,500-$75,000 per year, but actual base pay will depend on the successful candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience.

  • Competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package
  • Full health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)
  • 401(k), life insurance, and tuition assistance
  • Paid time off to rest and recharge
  • An open-door work environment that values feedback and collaboration
  • Opportunities for career advancement within a growing company

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