Sales Engineer - Networking & Communications Vertical

Who We Are:

At Avnet, relationships matter. We are a global, FORTUNE ® 500 technology distributor and solutions company that delivers design, supply chain and logistics expertise to customers at every stage of a product’s lifecycle. Our employees have a front row seat to the latest innovations shaping the world we live in and the future we share. We’re driven to help our customers around the world succeed and we do so by earning the trust of some of the biggest names in technology.

Working at Avnet means being a part of a global team. We work collaboratively and with integrity, doing business the right way. For more than a century, we have partnered together to help our customers, suppliers and teammates realize the transformative possibilities of technology. Experience what’s next at Avnet!

Job Summary:

Drives demand creation sales process by increasing design win funnel and revenue for customers whose solutions are in the networking and communications space.  This includes purpose-built hardware and/or applications on COTS hardware. Interface with the engineering departments of customers and suppliers. Performs a variety of product, technical and engineering functions including but not limited to: pre/post sales support, research, design and development.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Proactively develops and implements the technical sales account penetration strategy in each market presenting solutions to current and potential customers; develop knowledge to uncover, understand, compare, and contrast the solutions (pre-component selection as well as “make” vs “buy”). Provide valuable participation in supplier/customer design review.
• Good understanding of customer needs relative to applications, product(s), technology, direction, competition, design process and go to market strategies
• Identify and develop relationships with all key technical decision makers and influencers in each account.
• Discover design requirements from the system level down to each individual element collaborating with the design, production and/or engineering departments to develop/execute technical strategies that help solve customer design challenges.
• Market supported lines to sales team by driving adoption of advocated solutions, with supplier partners, that meet customer needs and lead to increased design activity, design wins and sales growth.
• Proactively provides general application and product level sales training, proactively align with sales team in securing business. Communicate account calls with suppliers, account managers and/or inside sales.
• Identifies and tracks largest design opportunities from concept to design win, utilizing all supplier resources to assure greatest potential for success.
• Creates presentations and other sales tools to enhance technical value and become a "trusted advisor" to both internal and external customers.
• Manages the product from beginning to end which involves communication and in-depth consultation with customers, sales and vendors.
• Research major industry players to be able to communicate to internal and external customers industry trends and directions.
• A thorough understanding of product lifecycles and the ability to design a full solution based on the customers expectation of product performance, lifecycles and total costs.
• Attend internal and external technical training to complete and maintain certification as necessary.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job Level Specifications:

• Solid understanding of business, financials, products/services, the market, and the needs of networking and communications customers. Understands emerging market trends and interdependencies impacting customers; leverages understanding to expand relationships with own customers. May be recognized as an expert in one area.
• Complexity is high (territory/account, products/services, sales or account management process). Requires developed sales expertise across a defined portfolio of products./services/accounts; applies expertise in a complex sales environment.
• Works independently or may lead teams to identify, pursue or manage accounts/opportunities with large size/strategic importance/risk of loss. Acts as a resource for colleagues with less experience; may serve as team lead and help develop colleagues' and customers' understanding. Has autonomy to set and negotiate product/service terms; plans own territory or account approach.
• Collaborates with team and leadership. Has direct contact with clients and decision makers; participates in team sales for major accounts.
• Leads the negotiations on medium-sized, complex accounts; plans own territory or account approach. Works within broad guidelines and policies to develop business with new and existing customers

Work Experience:

• Minimum experience required is typically 5+ years with bachelor's or equivalent. It's possible for a career salesperson to plateau for many years at this level.

Education and Certification(s):

• Bachelors degree or equivalent experience from which comparable knowledge and job skills can be obtained.

Distinguishing Characteristics:

• Has a strong working knowledge of systems level components, software dependencies, and data center like deployments (ethernet switches, optics, phys, servers, NICs, PCIe accelerators, AOC/DAC/AEC/ACC)

Pay and Benefits:

• https://aux.avnet.com/OE2025/documents/2025-benefits-resource-guide-final.pdf

• $160,000 - 180,000  total compensation range

• Please note that this salary information serves as a general guideline. Actual compensation offered will depend on various factors, including but not limited to the scope and responsibilities of the position, geographic location, candidate's work experience, education and training, key skills, as well as market and business considerations.

• Position open until filled

LI-Hybrid

What We Offer:

Our employees work hard to live our values and help us grow. Our total rewards strategy supports Avnet’s ability to attract, engage, develop, and reward our employees, while promoting a diverse and inclusive environment. We offer competitive compensation and benefit programs — from time away and flexible working arrangements to programs supporting employee well-being and opportunities to give back to your community.

• Generous Paid Time Off

• 401K and Pension Plan

• Paid Holidays

• Family Support (Paid Leave, Surrogacy, Adoption)

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance

• Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance

• Health Savings Account / Flexible Spending Account

• Education Assistance

• Employee Development Resources

• Employee Wellness, Leadership Development and Mentorship Programs

Benefits listed above may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Avnet.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills.

Avnet is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy of non-discrimination also applies to religious dress and grooming practices. Avnet will accommodate employee religious dress standards and grooming practices that do not result in undue hardship for the Company.  If you are interested in applying for employment with Avnet and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position contact our Human Resources Service Center at (888) 994-7669.