Inside Sales & Hardware Associate

The Sales Center & Hardware Associate is responsible for delivering exceptional customer service to walk-in and phone customers, supporting hardware and building material sales, and overseeing order fulfillment, inventory control, and showroom operations. This role assists customers with product selection, estimating, and purchasing, while ensuring accurate order processing and efficient coordination with internal teams and vendors.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Customer Service (External & Internal)
Represent SBL in a positive and professional manner

Greet walk-in customers and respond to incoming calls in a timely manner

Assist customers and sales staff with selection and purchase of hardware and building materials

Provide product recommendations based on customer needs and project requirements

Support showroom floor and counter sales activities
2. Estimating & Order Management Read and interpret blueprints to determine material requirements

Prepare material takeoffs and accurate estimates

Enter orders and estimates into company systems

Assemble hardware and material orders for delivery

Process customer payments, returns, credits, requisitions, and transfers

Source and special-order products as needed
3. Communication & Coordination Follow up with customers regarding order status and deliveries

Communicate with vendors regarding pricing, availability, and product specifications

Coordinate with Dispatch to ensure timely and accurate deliveries
4. Inventory Control & Merchandising Monitor stock levels and order materials as needed

Receive hardware and special-order items

Assist with inventory counts

Merchandise materials, displays, and literature throughout the showroom

Maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked showroom
5. Continuous Improvement Support continuous improvement initiatives and follow standard work Identify process improvement opportunities and recommend solutions

Collaborate with team members to enhance efficiency and customer experience
6. Safety & Wellness Follow all safety policies and promote a safe work environment

Report safety concerns, hazards, and incidents promptly

Maintain an ergonomically safe workspace

Comply with PPE requirements and housekeeping standards
7. Additional Responsibilities Provide cross-functional support as needed

Assist with showroom upkeep and customer events

Contribute to a positive team environment

Education & Experience High school diploma or equivalent required

Associate degree in Construction Technology or related field preferred2–5 years of experience in building materials, lumber, or hardware retail preferred

Customer service or sales experience required

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong customer service and relationship-building skills

Knowledge of building materials, hardware, and construction methods

Ability to read and interpret blueprints

Strong problem-solving and analytical skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and general computer systems

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Strong organizational and time management abilities

Ability to work independently and as part of a teamWORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS Work performed in office, warehouse, and showroom environments

Prolonged standing, walking, and occasional sitting

Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, squatting, and twisting

Ability to lift 30 lbs. regularly and up to 75 lbs. occasionally