Sales Representative

Location:

Hayward, CA

Compensation:
From $70,304/year, depending on experience ($26/hour during the initial 3-6 month introductory period; compensation structure reviewed afterward. Base salary + bonus; no commission.)

Hours:

8:00 AM-4:30 PM; occasional overtime depending on customer visits

Employment Type:

Full-time, Onsite

Japanese language ability preferred. More importantly, candidates must have a strong understanding of Japanese food products to effectively advise and support customers.

Must be currently authorized to work in the United States. No visa sponsorship is available for this role.

Applications will only be considered from candidates who meet the listed job-related qualifications. Please review thoroughly before submitting your application.

An established food wholesale company specializing in Japanese food products is seeking a Sales Associate to support restaurant and food-service customers. The company provides a wide range of specialty food products and focuses on delivering high-quality products and customer service.

The Sales Associate will build and maintain relationships with restaurant customers, recommend products based on their needs, process orders, and support daily sales and warehouse operations. This position is ideal for a customer-focused professional with an interest in Japanese food products and experience in food service, wholesale, or sales.

• Assist restaurant and food-service customers with product selection and inquiries.
• Build strong customer relationships and provide professional, responsive service.
• Identify upselling opportunities and introduce new, seasonal, and specialty products.
• Handle customer inquiries and orders by phone and digital communication.
• Coordinate order and logistics-related activities.
• Maintain organized product displays, shelves, warehouse, and storefront areas.
• Assist with inventory management, stock checks, and processing new product arrivals.
• Collaborate with supervisors and team members to support efficient daily operations.
• Provide additional operational and customer support during busy periods.

• Strong customer service and relationship-building skills.
• Professional verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment.
• Proactive approach to problem-solving and customer needs.
• Knowledge of sales and upselling techniques.
• Professional phone etiquette.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

• Previous experience in restaurant, food wholesale, food distribution, retail sales, or a related environment.
• Knowledge or interest in Japanese food products.
• Previous supervisory experience or demonstrated leadership potential.
• Experience building relationships with restaurant or food-service customers.

• Training will be provided.
• Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) with company matching, and paid time off.
• Employee discounts on food products are available.
• Some flexibility may be available for specific administrative responsibilities; regular onsite presence in Hayward is required.

This role may include additional responsibilities as needed based on business needs.