Sales Development Representative (Trainee)

Location: Altoona, IA 50009

Ziegler Companies has an excellent entry level opportunity for an energetic, self starting individual interested in serving Ziegler’s many industries. The Sales Representative Apprentice position is a full time role designed to provide broad exposure to Ziegler Companies and offers a unique opportunity to gain hands on experience across the organization while building meaningful relationships throughout the company.

As a Sales Representative Apprentice, you will be actively involved in several key business areas, including Sales, Sales Administration, Parts Operations, Product Support, Marketing, and Technology. You will also gain exposure to the additional industries we serve, such as Construction, Mining, Electric Power, and more. After approximately six to eight months of foundational training, opportunities for long term placement will be in the Minneapolis, MN or Des Moines, IA areas.

Responsibilities

Learn and understand Ziegler’s organizational structure, core business units, and internal workflows

Communicate consistently with your direct supervisor regarding progress, training needs, and development opportunities

Ask questions, seek feedback, and actively engage with trainers and mentors in each assigned department

Build meaningful relationships with employees across Sales, Parts, Service, Product Support, Marketing, and Technology

Participate in in‑person and online training sessions to build foundational knowledge of Ziegler’s products, systems, and customer support processes

Shadow Sales Representatives and Account Managers during customer visits, sales calls, and equipment demonstrations

Develop basic product knowledge of Ziegler’s equipment lines

Learn, enter, and maintain accurate customer information within the CRM system

Support branch operations by observing and participating in parts, service, and product support activities to understand how each department serves customers

Interact professionally with customers and employees in all settings, representing Ziegler with a positive and customer‑focused approach

Support trade shows, field days, and other company events by helping with set up and tear down, promoting Ziegler Companies, and engaging with attendees

Observe and learn the fundamentals of prospecting, lead follow‑up, pricing strategy, and team selling to prepare for future sales responsibilities

Demonstrate a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and commitment to developing the skills required for future placement into a Sales Representative or Account Manager role

Present a professional, neat, and clean personal appearance at all times

Make direct calls to customers at the request of your supervisor and log activities in CRM

Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED required

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Strong industry background

Prior sales experience in construction or agriculture industry a plus

Strong mechanical aptitude

Excellent written, electronic, and verbal communication skills

Proficient computer skills, including Word, Excel, and CRM systems

Strong work ethic and the ability to act with a sense of urgency

Willingness and ability to operate equipment for demonstration purposes after training

Key personal characteristics: self-motivated, customer-focused, learning-oriented, considerate/empathic, confident, and a strong team player

Must have and maintain a clean driving record

Travel

Up to 50% travel for customer visits, trade shows, and training, with occasional overnight travel required depending on the schedule or events

Minimum Physical Requirements

Standing, walking, using hands, talking, hearing

Working Conditions may be indoor and/or outdoor.

Noise level may be moderate at times.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. Ziegler Inc. will reasonably accommodate the known disabilities of qualified disabled individuals.

SEE YOURSELF AT ZIEGLER

Founded in 1914, Ziegler is a third-generation, family-owned CAT dealer with over 2400 employees across 30+ locations in Minnesota, Iowa and northern Missouri. Since day one Ziegler has had the same philosophy- if the customer is successful- then Ziegler will be successful. That is why Ziegler is committed to providing employees with the best possible work environment and the right tools for career development. This means great benefits, work/life balance, and ongoing professional development and training. Fulfill your calling by starting a career with Ziegler today!

The pay range for this position is

$26.85 to $32.21

Starting wage is dependent on skills, experience, education and location. Pay range may vary by 10% depending upon the applicant’s location. Along with competitive pay, full time positions are benefits eligible which includes:

Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance

15 days of PTO your first year, accrual starts day 1

9 paid holidays

401(k) plan with company contribution and match

HSA (Health Savings Account), Ziegler contributes up to $1000 tax-free each year

Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance, FSA & EAP

Paid Parental Leave & Funeral Leave

Fitness membership discount

Education Assistance

At Ziegler Inc. we’re committed to equal opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.