Sales Rep Trainee

About the role

This developmental role is designed to provide comprehensive training in the corrugated packaging industry, customer relationship management, sales processes, and manufacturing operations. The Sales Trainee will work closely with experienced sales professionals and cross-functional teams to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and manage customer accounts while delivering exceptional service and value. This position offers an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in building a long-term career in sales within a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Participate in a structured sales training program focused on corrugated packaging products, manufacturing processes, and customer solutions.
• Learn and apply consultative selling techniques to identify customer needs and recommend appropriate packaging solutions.
• Assist sales representatives with account management activities, customer communications, and sales presentations.
• Support efforts to generate new business opportunities through prospecting, networking, and market research.
• Develop an understanding of pricing strategies, estimating processes, and proposal preparation.
• Coordinate with customer service, production, design, and operations teams to ensure customer expectations are met.
• Conduct plant tours and participate in customer meetings as needed.
• Analyze customer requirements and collaborate with internal teams to develop effective packaging solutions.
• Monitor customer activity, maintain accurate records, and update CRM systems.
• Participate in sales meetings, training sessions, and industry events.
• Travel to customer locations and company facilities as required.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Sales, Packaging, Communications, or a related field preferred. Recent graduates are encouraged to apply.
• Previous internship, customer service, sales, or business development experience is a plus.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and establish trust with customers.
• Self-motivated with a strong desire to learn and develop professionally.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail and follow-through.
• Ability to present information effectively to customers and internal stakeholders.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Career Development

The Sales Trainee position is intended to prepare high-potential individuals for advancement into a Sales Representative role. Through hands-on experience, mentorship, and structured training, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of Carolina Container's products, customers, operations, and sales strategies.

Physical Demands

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• The employee is regularly required to talk or hear.
• The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle or feel, and reach with hands and arms.
• The employee is occasionally required to sit.
• Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

Normal office environment.