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Sales Engineer Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

smcnorthamerica

Sales Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

PURPOSE The Sales Engineer is responsible for representing SMC in all business activities ... Sales Trainees and Sales Associates when appropriate * Set and achieve sales targets, revenue ...

smcnorthamerica

Sales Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

PURPOSE The Sales Engineer is responsible for representing SMC in all business activities ... Sales Trainees and Sales Associates when appropriate * Set and achieve sales targets, revenue ...

Orbotech

Associate Test Engineer Trainee

Milpitas, CA · On-site

KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert ... Associate Test Engineers Trainees for various positions in manufacturing. This is a 12-month ...

KLA

Associate Test Engineer Trainee

Milpitas, CA · On-site

KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert ... Associate Test Engineers Trainees for various positions in manufacturing. This is a 12-month ...

KLA

Associate Test Engineer Trainee

Milpitas, CA · On-site

KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert ... Associate Test Engineers Trainees for various positions in manufacturing. This is a 12-month ...

Orbotech

Associate Test Engineer Trainee

Milpitas, CA · On-site

KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert ... Associate Test Engineers Trainees for various positions in manufacturing. This is a 12-month ...

Orbotech

Associate Test Engineer Trainee

Milpitas, CA · On-site

KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert ... Associate Test Engineers Trainees for various positions in manufacturing. This is a 12-month ...

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All JobsSales Engineer JobsSales Engineer Trainee JobsSales Engineer Trainee Jobs in California

Sales Engineer Trainee information

See California salary details

$27K

$50.4K

$84.5K

How much do sales engineer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for sales engineer trainee in California is $50,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,400.00 and $55,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sales engineer trainee?

Sales Engineer Trainees are entry-level professionals who learn to bridge the gap between technical products and customer needs. They receive training in both engineering principles and sales techniques to effectively assist clients in understanding and purchasing complex products or services. Their role typically involves shadowing experienced sales engineers, learning about the company's products, and gradually taking on more responsibility in both technical support and sales activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sales engineer trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sales Engineer Trainee, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, basic sales techniques, and typically a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CRM software, product demonstration tools, and technical presentation platforms is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that set candidates apart. These skills enable a Sales Engineer Trainee to effectively bridge technical solutions with customer needs, driving successful sales outcomes and career growth.

What are some common challenges faced by sales engineer trainees during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Sales Engineer Trainees often face the challenge of balancing technical learning with developing strong communication and sales skills. Navigating complex product knowledge while building relationships with clients can be overwhelming at first. To overcome these challenges, trainees should proactively seek mentorship, participate in product training sessions, and regularly collaborate with experienced sales engineers and technical teams. Embracing feedback and engaging in continuous learning will help build confidence and competence in both technical and client-facing aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Sales Engineer Trainee vs Sales Engineer?

AspectSales Engineer TraineeSales Engineer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant degrees or certificationsRelevant degrees, certifications, and experience in sales and technical knowledge
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, mentorship, entry-level sales and technical support rolesClient-facing roles, technical presentations, product demonstrations
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions in tech, manufacturing, and engineering firmsMid to senior-level roles in similar industries, often with more client responsibility

The main difference is that a Sales Engineer Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and development, while a Sales Engineer is a fully qualified professional responsible for client interactions and technical sales. Trainees are in training, whereas Sales Engineers have established skills and experience to handle complex sales processes.

How much does an entry level sales engineer make?

Entry-level sales engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on the industry and location. Starting salaries may include commissions or bonuses based on sales performance, and the role often requires technical knowledge and communication skills.

How to get into sales engineer trainee with no experience?

To become a sales engineer trainee with no experience, focus on developing technical knowledge relevant to the industry, such as understanding products and solutions, and improve communication skills. Gaining certifications like Cisco or CompTIA can enhance your qualifications, and internships or entry-level roles in sales or technical support can provide practical experience. Demonstrating a willingness to learn and a strong interest in technology is also important for entry into this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sales Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Sales Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Sales Engineer Trainee jobs in California?

For Sales Engineer Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sales Engineer Trainee jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Sales Engineer Trainee jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Sales Engineer Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sales Engineer Trainee job openings:

Sales Engineer Trainee jobs near you

Sales Engineer Trainee - Southern/Central California Territory

RBC Transport Dynamics

Bellflower, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

RBC Bearings Incorporated (NYSE: RBC) is a leading international manufacturer of highly engineered precision bearings and components for the industrial, defense and aerospace industries.  Founded in 1919, the Company is primarily focused on producing highly technical and/or regulated bearing products and engineered components requiring sophisticated design, testing and manufacturing capabilities for the diversified industrial, aerospace and defense markets.  We currently have 64 facilities, of which 42 are manufacturing facilities in eleven countries and our market capitalization is approximately $18.0 billion.

JOB TITLE/LOCATION:

Sales Engineer Trainee - Southern/Central California Territory

 

DESCRIPTION:

We are currently recruiting for a dynamic Sales Engineering Trainee with a tremendous amount of energy, passion and motivation.  In this position, RBC Bearings would provide you with an extensive, in-depth 6-month training program focusing on bearing products, applications, selling methods, and effective communication techniques to meet our customer needs. Our training program is located at our corporate headquarters in Oxford, Connecticut.  As part of this training program, you will also have an opportunity to visit several of our divisions throughout the United States. 

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB:

After your successful completion of the training program, you will be assigned a sales territory and home base. You will be required to travel within your sales territory approx. 50% of the time.  Sales Engineer Trainees are responsible for selling our product directly to the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) and industrial distributors. 

EDUCATION:      

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Distribution, Engineering, or Business

  • Strong mechanical aptitude

EXPERIENCE:     

Technical Sales Experience and sales training

SKILLS / CERTIFICATIONS:

The ideal candidate will have the following Skills and Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering or Business
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Initiative driven by strong social and interpersonal skills to support external sales
  • Adaptability
  • Professional written and verbal communications skills
  • Time management
  • Problem solving skills
  • Strong work ethic

RBC Bearings offers a competitive benefit package including a company car.  Interested candidates may send resumes to:  jnmartinez@rbcbearings.com

                                 RBC Bearings is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

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