Sales Support / Administrative Assistant / Conversational Japanese is a plus

Our client, an established international manufacturing company, is seeking a Sales Support / Administrative Assistant for its growing U.S. start-up office in New York. This full-time, non-exempt position will support business development, client communication, quotation preparation, order processing, and project coordination.

About the role

This position offers an opportunity to be involved in building the company’s U.S. operations while supporting business development, client communication, project coordination, quotation preparation, order processing, and general administrative tasks. The role is well suited for someone who enjoys working with people, is highly organized, and is interested in design, architecture, interior products, or hardware-related products. This is a non-commission-based position.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain relationships with designers, architects, distributors, and other business clients
• Attend client meetings, present products, and participate in project discussions
• Support business development activities and identify new project opportunities
• Prepare quotations and follow up throughout the sales process
• Respond to client inquiries and provide support throughout the sales cycle
• Serve as a point of contact for clients during the early phases of projects
• Coordinate with internal teams, suppliers, and factory partners to ensure smooth order fulfillment
• Arrange and process purchase orders with suppliers
• Maintain accurate project records, client information, and related documentation
• Support proposal preparation, quotation tracking, and other administrative sales activities
• Provide occasional support related to installation or after-maintenance matters, depending on business needs

Please note that installation attendance is not a regular duty of this position. However, the employee may be asked to assist with site-related matters on an occasional basis, depending on project requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Degree or diploma in Business Administration, Marketing, Interior Design, or a related field is a plus
• 1–3 years of experience in sales support, administrative support, project coordination, business trading, or a customer-facing role preferred (junior candidates are also welcome to apply)
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Comfortable communicating with clients and participating in meetings
• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
• Self-motivated, organized, flexible, and able to work independently
• Comfortable working in a growing office environment where responsibilities may evolve over time
• Interest in interior design, architecture, construction materials, hardware products, or related industries is a plus
• Work authorization in the United States required

Work Environment

• Primarily office-based position
• Growing U.S. start-up office environment
• Occasional site visits may be required depending on project needs
• Limited physical activity may be required in connection with occasional site support

Pay

Annual salary range: $50,000–$65,000, depending on experience. Overtime eligible. Discretionary bonus may be provided up to once per year.

This position is maintained for future hiring needs. Qualified candidates will be contacted when a suitable opportunity becomes available.