R&D Sales Manager

R&D Sales Manager

This position will be located at Forge Nano’s headquarters in Thornton, Colorado. Preference will be given to local candidates as there is no relocation monies for this position.

Forge Nano Inc., a fast-growing nano‑technology company focused on precision, R&D‑ and commercial‑scale ALD nano‑coatings across a wide range of markets, is seeking an experienced and high‑energy R&D Sales Manager. As an R&D Sales Manager you will be a key player in driving new customer acquisition and aggressively pursuing new opportunities. Your primary focus will be on prospecting, lead nurturing, technical qualification, proposal development, negotiation and closing for our R&D equipment ALD systems.

We seek a unique blend of technical expertise and sales acumen, allowing you to effectively communicate the value of our solutions to potential clients. As part of the Sales Team you will play a crucial role in propelling our company’s growth and success. This is an individual contributor role and not a manager of other employees.

• Lead sales efforts and develop/maintain a sales channel for our R&D and Pilot‑scale ALD systems. Follow objectives and provide performance reporting toward sales targets.
• Develop an in‑depth understanding of our R&D ALD equipment and its applications. Provide technical guidance for R&D tools and our large‑scale powder tools.
• Provide technical guidance for R&D ALDx tools as needed.
• Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitive offerings.
• Manage ALDx sales leads from qualification to Closed/Won stages.
• Assist in complex technical discussions, product demonstrations, and troubleshooting.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive sales strategy for R&D ALD equipment to research institutions, universities, and corporate development labs. Identify potential clients, understand purchasing cycles, and achieve revenue targets.
• Stay at the forefront of ALD technology and our equipment offerings for the lab‑scale and R&D products. Provide insights to the product development team based on customer feedback and industry trends.
• Build and nurture strong relationships with existing and potential customers, understanding their specific needs, challenges, and goals.
• Create and deliver compelling presentations and technical proposals to showcase the benefits of our R&D ALD equipment tools.
• Stay informed about market trends, competitors, and emerging opportunities. Refine sales strategies and identify new market segments.
• Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams, including Engineering, Marketing, and Technical Service, to ensure customer satisfaction and resolve technical issues promptly.
• Participate in trade shows and technical conferences as required.
• Document sales activities, customer interactions, and market data accurately. Prepare sales reports and forecasts for management. All activity must be documented in Sales Force.

• PhD or Master’s degree in a relevant STEM discipline and 3+ years of direct sales experience.
• Proven experience in equipment sales to educational institutions, research institutions, or high‑tech industry end‑users, with a focus on ALD or similar capital equipment, and a track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets.
• Knowledge of Additive Manufacturing, battery materials, and other high‑tech processes for technical guidance.
• Strong technical background and in‑depth understanding of particle ALD processes.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong customer relationships and collaborate with a diversified sales team.
• Self‑motivated, results‑driven, and able to work independently and collaboratively.
• Willingness to travel as needed to meet customers and attend industry events.
• Hands‑on experience with CRM software, preferably Sales Force.

• Presentation Skills
• Project Management
• Client Relationship Building
• Negotiation
• Prospecting Skills
• Creativity
• Sales Planning
• Independence
• Self‑motivated

Work will predominately be in an office environment. The employee will be required to wear all appropriate safety equipment including but…