Outside Sales Representative - PVF (pipes, valves & fittings)

About the role

Cogent is an employee-owned business dedicated to growth and success. We provide a supportive environment where employees can thrive both professionally and personally. We seek an Outside Sales Representative to join Central States Group, a division of Cogent, to drive profitable revenue growth.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and execute a territory sales plan that drives profitable revenue growth
• Work in conjunction with the inside sales team to grow existing accounts and identify new customers
• Make regular sales calls to customer locations to assess needs, recommend solutions, and strengthen relationships
• Provide timely and accurate quotations and ensure orders are processed at appropriate gross margins
• Communicate effectively with customers regarding order status, contract changes, and delivery expectations
• Ensure on-time delivery of product and proactively address service issues when they arise
• Work with vendors and manufacturers on pricing, availability, and order fulfillment
• Cook with purchasing to support appropriate inventory levels
• Manage customer issues, credits, non-conformances, and complaints promptly and professionally
• Develop account and product strategies aligned with customer needs and company objectives
• Maintain accurate records of sales calls, activities, and expenses
• Build strong internal and external relationships to support long-term customer satisfaction
• Take ownership of service recovery when issues occur to protect customer relationships
• Regular travel throughout the assigned sales territory by motor vehicle
• A combination of field-based customer visits and on-site presence at the warehouse location
• Standard office and warehouse environment

Requirements

• Experience in outside sales, preferably within PVF (pipes, valves & fittings), industrial distribution, or construction-related markets
• Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to manage and grow customer accounts
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and follow-up skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with internal teams
• Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills
• Working knowledge of pricing, margins, and contract-based sales
• Proficiency with CRM systems, sales reporting, and expense reporting tools

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record required

Skills

• Customer-focused sales professional
• Fast-paced, relationship-based sales environment
• Ownership-driven culture
• Collaborative environment
• Empowered to maximize potential
• Earn strong rewards for efforts
• Contribute to a brand they believe in

Benefits

• Performance-driven compensation model with clear earning potential
• Broad portfolio of trusted PVF products and solutions serving industrial and commercial markets
• Strong inside sales, purchasing, and operations support to help you win and retain customers
• Career growth opportunities to expand accounts, territory, and responsibility
• Clearly defined company values and a mission focused on building healthy, prosperous communities

Pay

Competitive compensation package based on performance

Schedule

Regular travel throughout the assigned sales territory by motor vehicle, combined with on-site presence at the warehouse location. Overtime may be required on short notice.