Switchgear & Lighting Sales

Overview

Outside Sales — Sterling, VA or Baltimore, MD

Founded in 1870, C.N. Robinson Lighting Supply (CNR Lighting) is a proudly family-oriented, award-winning wholesale distributor specializing in commercial lighting, control products, and switch gear. With over 150 years of continuous service across the Mid-Atlantic, we’ve built a legacy rooted in innovation, expertise, and unwavering customer commitment. With locations in Baltimore, MD and Sterling, VA, CNR supports both new construction and retrofit projects, incorporating the latest in lighting technology, energy-saving solutions, and advanced power distribution systems.

Our evolution from a seed and glass business to a lighting and power systems leader reflects our forward-thinking mindset and deep industry knowledge. Throughout our history, we’ve remained dedicated to delivering exceptional value — combining cutting-edge solutions with the personal touch of a team that treats every project like it matters, because it does.

We’re growing, and we’re looking for someone who shares our drive, attention to detail, and customer-first mindset. Join us and become part of a company with a storied past and a bright future.

CNR is seeking motivated professionals to join our team in flexible, growth-oriented roles supporting switch gear and/or lighting sales and projects
. This position can be tailored toward:

• Outside sales and customer development
• Quoting and specification support
• Project management and order execution
• Or a hybrid combination of the above

Depending on your experience, this role may lean more toward lighting outside sales
, switch gear project support
, or a blend of both
, with opportunities to expand responsibilities over time.

This is an ideal role for someone who enjoys being customer-facing, understands technical electrical products, and wants to be involved from initial opportunity through project completion
.

• Develop and maintain relationships with contractors, engineers, and end users.
• Identify and pursue new sales opportunities in lighting, controls, and/or switch gear.
• Prepare accurate, competitive quotes and proposals.
• Review drawings, specifications, and project requirements to ensure compliant solutions.
• Collaborate with manufacturers and internal teams to provide pricing, technical support, and value-engineered options.

• Manage projects from order entry through delivery and closeout.
• Coordinate with internal operations, manufacturers, and customers to meet schedules and specifications.
• Track milestones, submittals, change orders, and documentation.
• Serve as a primary customer contact, providing updates and resolving issues as they arise.
• Support customers with technical, logistical, and product-related questions.

• 3–7 years of experience in lighting sales, switch gear sales, estimating, or electrical project management
  .
• Working knowledge of electrical construction, lighting systems, controls, and/or power distribution equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, one-lines, and specifications (switch gear experience a plus, not required).
• Strong communication, organization, and relationship-building skills.
• Comfortable managing multiple projects and opportunities simultaneously.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, bid boards, vendor portals, and ERP/CRM systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred, but not required.

• Be part of a tight-knit, respected company with deep roots and a strong reputation.
• Work on a wide range of commercial lighting and electrical distribution projects
  .
• Shape your role based on your strengths — sales-focused, project-focused, or both.
• Competitive compensation,
  commission opportunities
  , and benefits.
• Clear path for professional growth in a company that values long-term careers.

CNR Lighting is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to any legally protected status.