Industrial Abrasives Product Specialist

SurfacePrep • Byron Center, MI

4h • Hybrid

About The Position

SurfacePrep is seeking a commercially minded industrial abrasives specialist to help manufacturers solve production challenges. This role involves combining product knowledge, data analysis, and hands-on customer support. The specialist will partner with sales teams, customers, and suppliers to enhance processes, identify growth opportunities, and recommend coated and bonded abrasive solutions that provide measurable value. The ideal candidate is located in Michigan and is open to regional travel, supporting customers and business needs across Wisconsin and Illinois.

Requirements

• Five or more years of relevant experience in industrial sales, product management, purchasing, pricing, abrasives, tooling, or a related field.
• Working knowledge of coated and bonded abrasives, industrial applications, or manufacturing processes.
• Experience using business intelligence or sales analytics to turn data into practical account and product strategies.
• A collaborative approach and the ability to build productive relationships across sales, operations, suppliers, and customers.
• Confidence working independently, organizing priorities, and moving projects from idea to execution.
• Strong customer service and problem-solving skills, with an interest in helping customers improve performance and efficiency.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Ability and willingness to travel throughout the region to support customers and sales teams.

Nice To Haves

• A bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related area is welcomed but equivalent experience is also valued.
• Experience with SharePoint, White Cup, or another CRM/BI platform is helpful.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the industrial abrasives subject matter expert for customers and internal teams within the assigned territory.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with customers by understanding their applications, production challenges, and business objectives.
• Identify opportunities to improve customer performance through the recommendation of abrasive products, process improvements, and cost-saving solutions.
• Conduct on-site evaluations, product demonstrations, and trials to validate performance and support implementation of recommended solutions.
• Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting assistance related to abrasive products, surface preparation processes, and finishing applications.
• Partner with Sales Representatives to uncover new business opportunities, grow existing accounts, and support strategic customer initiatives.
• Collaborate with suppliers and manufacturing partners to stay informed on new products, technologies, and industry best practices.
• Deliver product training and technical education to customers and internal team members as needed.
• Prepare and present recommendations, trial results, and value-based solutions to customers.
• Track customer activity, project opportunities, and territory development efforts using company CRM and reporting tools.
• Support the successful launch and adoption of new products and technologies within the market.
• Travel throughout the assigned territory to provide hands-on customer support and strengthen business relationships.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Company Paid Life Insurance
• Company Paid Short-Term Disability
• Company Paid Long-Term Disability
• Employee Assistance Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree