Commodities Specialist

State Electric Supply Co. • Gastonia, NC

4d

About The Position

State Electric Supply Co., a leader in the electrical distribution industry since 1952, is seeking a dedicated and motivated Commodities Specialist to join their team. This role will support outside sales representatives with wire and cable quotations, pricing strategies, and product recommendations. The specialist will also develop and maintain strong relationships with customers, vendors, and manufacturers, monitor commodity market trends (copper and aluminum pricing), and communicate market updates. Responsibilities include providing technical product knowledge, assisting in inventory management, collaborating with purchasing and operations, tracking wire cuts, identifying sales opportunities, preparing bids and quotations, maintaining system data, participating in customer visits and meetings, and supporting company initiatives for sales growth and margin improvement in the wire and cable category.

Requirements

• Prior experience in electrical distribution, wire and cable sales, or commodity-based sales preferred.
• Knowledge of wire and cable products, electrical applications, and industry standards strongly preferred.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and customer service skills.
• Ability to analyze pricing trends, market conditions, and profitability.
• Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
• Proficiency with CSD and internal business systems/processes.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Two or more years of experience in electrical distribution, inside sales, purchasing, commodity sales, or a related industry preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Understanding of commodity pricing and market fluctuations.
• Experience supporting outside sales teams and project-based business.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Customer-focused mindset with a strong sense of urgency and responsiveness.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy.
• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in business, sales, supply chain, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support outside sales representatives with wire and cable quotations, pricing strategies, and product recommendations.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with customers, vendors, manufacturers, and supplier representatives.
• Monitor commodity market trends, including copper and aluminum pricing, and communicate market updates to the sales team and customers.
• Provide technical product knowledge and application support for wire and cable products.
• Assist in managing inventory levels and special-order opportunities to maximize profitability and service performance.
• Collaborate with purchasing and operations teams to ensure timely delivery and accurate order fulfillment.
• Work closely with the wire cutter and branch operations teams to develop and maintain an accurate process for tracking daily wire cuts and related activity.
• Identify sales opportunities and recommend value-added solutions that support customer needs.
• Prepare competitive bids, project quotations, and pricing proposals.
• Maintain accurate pricing, costing, and product information within company systems.
• Participate in customer visits, sales meetings, vendor training sessions, and industry events as needed.
• Support company initiatives focused on sales growth, customer retention, and margin improvement within the wire and cable category.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage: UHC Medical/Prescription/Dental plans, Garner Health services, and VSP Vision for eye care.
• Health Savings Account (HSA): Through Optum, take advantage of tax-advantaged savings for medical expenses.
• Disability and Life Insurance: Coverage provided by Mutual of Omaha for peace of mind.
• TextCare & Wellness Program: Stay connected with healthcare providers and maintain your well-being.
• Retirement Savings Plans: 401K and Roth IRA plans, plus Profit Sharing opportunities.
• Flexible Paid Time Off to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Tuition Reimbursement & Education Assistance for lifelong learning.
• Weekly Pay with Direct Deposit for added convenience.
• Employee Discounts and Purchase Benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED