Sales Assistant

Kubota Engine America (KEA) is a global leader in industrial engine distribution, known for innovation, reliability, and exceptional customer support. We’re seeking an experienced Sales Assistan
t to accelerate customer growth and new market expansion through strategic data-driven sales leadership.

This full‑time role is based in Lincolnshire, IL (north of Chicago) and transitions to a hybrid schedule after 30 da
ys. KEA offers a comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, PTO, STD/LTD, and a 401(k) plan.

The Sales Assistant supports the sales process by receiving, entering, monitoring, and billing customer orders. This role provides customer service related to sales orders and assists with various administrative and operational tasks. Work follows established routines, with supervision available as needed.

• Process orders from initial receipt through billing, including coordinating engine production with overseas factories, creating purchase orders, tracking imports, and generating sales orders and invoices.
• Monitor order progress through final shipment to ensure timely delivery; identify issues and expedite when necessary by communicating with customers, KBT, MTS, and warehouse teams.
• Create Commercial Invoices and collaborate with freight forwarders on export documentation.
• Prepare and distribute monthly open order reports to OEM and Distributor customers.
• Maintain monthly Yen rate files, prepare rate letters, and distribute to customers.
• Create and maintain customer pricing and material master files in SAP for MOEM customers.
• Update and maintain engine quotation files.
• Monitor customer supplier portals for changes in material demand and shipping schedules.
• Manage engine inventory for onsite and offsite stocking programs and prepare inventory management reports.
• Respond professionally and supportively to customer inquiries related to sales orders and other issues.
• Provide monthly margin and sales reports to sales managers; track actual results vs. forecast and support sales meeting preparation.
• Assist accounting with resolving past‑due invoices and invoicing discrepancies.
• Support the Logistics team by loading daily serial number files and troubleshooting errors.
• Perform clerical tasks including compiling data, processing documents, making standard computations, and maintaining records and files.
• Create, modify, and maintain spreadsheets and data records by extracting, combining, and updating information.
• Document processes and update existing operating scripts.
• Manage special projects as assigned.
• Maintain an organized and secure workspace.
• Support coworkers across departments as needed.
• Keep the manager informed of all noteworthy activities.
• Follow all safety guidelines and department/corporate policies.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution and relationship building.
• Working knowledge of SAP S4 or similar ERP systems.
• Ability to follow standard work instructions; reliable and punctual.
• Strong multitasking, prioritization, and organizational abilities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong written and verbal English communication skills.
• Ability to understand a wide variety of written and verbal instructions.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and sound judgment (e.g., determining shipping methods, addressing pricing or system issues).
• Ability to perform basic math calculations using whole numbers and decimals.
• Intermediate word processing and advanced spreadsheet skills.
• Ability to operate phones, copiers, and general office equipment.

• Associate’s degree or equivalent
• 2+ years of inside sales or account management experience.

• Primarily office‑based with moderate noise levels.
• Occasional exposure to warehouse environments with temperature variation.
• Ability to sit for extended periods, with some walking, stooping, bending, and reaching.
• Dexterity for repeated hand and wrist movements and the ability to grasp and manipulate objects.
• Ability to hear normal conversations in person or by phone.
• Visual ability to see more than 20 feet, distinguish color, and read computer screens.