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Entry Level Business Development Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

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The hiring company has a business development and account management opportunity that they are looking to fill. Full training is included and experience is not necessary. If you are a driven person ...

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Business Development Associate

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Business Development Associate Reports to: Sr. Director of Marketing Status: Full Time Description The Business Development Associate is responsible for pursuing and generating new business leads ...

Business Development Associate

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Business Development Associate Reports to: Sr. Director of Marketing Status: Full Time Description The Business Development Associate is responsible for pursuing and generating new business leads ...

Business Development Associate

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$45K - $62K/yr

The Experience As a Business Development Associate at Salesforce, you aren't just starting a career in sales. You are joining the World's #1 AI CRM and the platform powering the Agentic Enterprise ...

Business Development Associate

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$45K - $62K/yr

The Experience As a Business Development Associate at Salesforce, you aren't just starting a career in sales. You are joining the World's #1 AI CRM and the platform powering the Agentic Enterprise ...

Business Development Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$45K - $62K/yr

The Experience As a Business Development Associate at Salesforce, you aren't just starting a career in sales. You are joining the World's #1 AI CRM and the platform powering the Agentic Enterprise ...

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Entry Level Business Development Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.9K

$57.5K

$94.8K

How much do entry level business development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level business development associate in Chicago, IL is $57,454.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,800.00 and $62,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by Entry Level Business Development Associates, and how can they be overcome?

Entry Level Business Development Associates often encounter challenges such as building a robust client pipeline, handling rejection, and quickly learning about diverse industries. Overcoming these hurdles requires proactive communication, resilience, and a willingness to continuously learn from feedback and mentorship. Collaborating closely with sales, marketing, and senior business development team members can provide valuable insights and support, helping new associates adapt and thrive in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Business Development Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Business Development Associate, you need strong interpersonal skills, basic understanding of sales and marketing principles, and a relevant bachelor's degree, often in business or a related field. Familiarity with CRM software, lead generation tools, and Microsoft Office Suite is commonly required. Excellent communication, resilience, and a proactive attitude help you stand out in building relationships and driving results. These skills and qualities are crucial for identifying opportunities, managing client interactions, and supporting the company's growth objectives.

What does an Entry Level Business Development Associate do?

An Entry Level Business Development Associate is responsible for supporting a company’s growth by identifying new business opportunities, generating leads, and assisting with client outreach. They often conduct market research, help prepare sales presentations, and build relationships with potential clients under the guidance of senior team members. This role is typically a starting position in the business development field and offers valuable experience in sales, marketing, and client management.

What is the difference between Entry Level Business Development Associate vs Sales Representative?

AspectEntry Level Business Development AssociateSales Representative
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often preferred; some roles may require familiarity with CRM toolsHigh school diploma or equivalent; sales certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, client meetings, prospectingOffice, retail, or field sales environments
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech, finance, and consulting firmsWidespread across retail, insurance, and manufacturing sectors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles focused on business growthLooking for direct sales roles and targets

While both roles involve engaging with clients and promoting products or services, the Entry Level Business Development Associate primarily focuses on identifying new business opportunities, building relationships, and supporting strategic growth. In contrast, a Sales Representative typically concentrates on closing sales and meeting sales targets. The associate role often requires more strategic outreach, whereas sales reps are more transaction-focused.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Business Development Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Business Development Associate job openings:
Business Development Associate

Business Development Associate

AEI Consultants

Chicago, IL

$60K - $65K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

New


Job description

Description

POSITION: Business Development Associate


POSITION SUMMARY


AEI Consultants has a new career opportunity available for an entry level Business Development Associate to develop and maintain client relationships and pursue new business. The ideal candidate will be a recent graduate or have one to two years of previous sales experience and an interest in building a career in business development.  The individual will eventually assume sales responsibilities for a large book of business. 


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • The primary role will be to maintain and ground existing client accounts. Work with senior executives on maintaining and growing opportunities with existing clients while learning the aspects of the business
  • Work with a local sales executive who will be a mentor and provide guidance in the sales process 
  • Work to price and prepare proposals for  existing accounts
  • Attend local networking events to obtain leads and meet with clients
  • Maintain client satisfaction by understanding AEI's technical capabilities and client needs
  • Develop new sales opportunities through cold calling, setting appointments and selling the value of AEI

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Approximately 1-2 years of previous sales experience in commercial real estate, environmental consulting, or a related field
  • General understanding of commercial real estate markets
  • Excellent communication skills 
  • Sales and goal-oriented
  • Professional, high energy, self-starter
  • Competitive attitude with demonstrated achievements in hitting goals
  • Exemplary customer service and relationship management skills
  • Ability to remain detail-oriented while working at a fast pace
  • Ability to proactively develop client relationships utilizing cold calling techniques

EDUCATION

  • BS or BA degree in Marketing, Sales, or a related field

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • The work environment may be both indoors and outdoors. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, type, handle office and/or field equipment, speak and hear. The employee may occasionally be required to stand, walk, balance, kneel or crouch, and must be able to travel independently. The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to focus. 

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS & PERKS


AEI Consultants offers all full-time employees an outstanding, extensive benefits package, which among other benefits includes medical, dental, and vision benefits, paid time off and sick leave, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 401K, complimentary use of AEI's condo at Donner Lake in Truckee, CA, an Employee Referral Bonus Program, and Commuter Tax and Dependent Care Benefits. 


COMPANY CULTURE


One of the primary reasons that our employees enjoy working at AEI is our positive company culture. We offer a collaborative, flexible and inclusive work environment where employees have the opportunity to engage in meaningful work, make a positive impact on our clients and communities, and are encouraged to carve out a career path within the organization that best aligns with their interests and goals.  We greatly value the contributions of our team members and prioritize employee wellness, safety, flexibility and work/life balance. 


OVERVIEW


AEI Consultants is an employee-owned consulting firm that provides comprehensive services to commercial lenders, property owners, managers, tenants, and developers, industries, institutions, government agencies, and insurers, including many Fortune 500 companies. These services include environmental, property and facility assessments, zoning and energy consulting, site investigation and remediation, industrial hygiene, land surveying, valuation, and construction risk management. AEI specializes in identifying potential risks and crafting solutions through Environmental and Building Evaluation Consulting, Construction Services, Site Investigation and Remediation expertise. AEI Consultants is known for being reliable, responsive and resourceful. Founded in 1992, AEI is based in the San Francisco Bay area and has offices strategically located throughout the United States. 


AEI Consultants values diversity and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment for our employees and community. We encourage all applicants who are excited about this opportunity and share our career goals to apply, even if they don't meet every requirement. We are proud to offer equal employment opportunities, prohibiting discrimination and harassment based on various protected characteristics defined by law. This policy applies to all aspects of employment. At AEI Consultants, we believe that a diverse team is essential for our success, and we strive to attract, develop, and retain talented individuals from diverse backgrounds.