Technical Sales Account Manager

Company Overview American Photonics is a U.S.-based manufacturer of precision optical components serving aerospace, defense, medical, industrial, and advanced technology markets. We specialize in custom optical manufacturing where precision, quality, and technical expertise are essential. Position Overview We are seeking an experienced, motivated Technical Sales Account Manager who enjoys building relationships, developing new business, and turning opportunities into lasting customer partnerships. This is a hands-on role for someone who takes initiative, enjoys the challenge of winning new business, and understands the importance of maintaining and growing existing accounts. The ideal candidate is driven, resourceful, and commercially minded, with the confidence to work independently, the persistence to see opportunities through, and the judgment to know when collaboration is needed. You will take ownership of the sales process, from identifying prospects and earning their business to managing customer relationships and securing repeat orders. Working closely with our Engineering, Operations, and Quality teams, you will help connect customer needs with our manufacturing capabilities while contributing to sustainable, profitable growth. Key Responsibilities Identify, prospect, and secure new business with OEMs and manufacturers in aerospace, defense, medical, industrial, and related markets. Develop and execute sales strategies through direct outreach, industry networking, referrals, customer visits, and market research. Establish and maintain relationships with engineers, procurement teams, program managers, and key decision-makers. Grow existing customer accounts by identifying new programs, applications, and opportunities for repeat business. Manage the complete sales cycle from initial prospecting and qualification through RFQs, quotations, negotiations, and purchase orders. Understand customer applications, technical specifications, and purchasing requirements to identify opportunities aligned with our manufacturing capabilities. Collaborate with Engineering, Operations, and Quality to evaluate technical requirements, develop competitive proposals, and establish realistic delivery commitments. Maintain an active pipeline of qualified opportunities, accurate sales forecasts, and current CRM records. Meet or exceed established sales targets for new customer acquisition, revenue growth, and account development. Monitor market developments, competitor activity, and emerging technologies to identify opportunities for business growth. Represent the company at customer meetings, industry events, and trade shows as needed. Take ownership of customer commitments, address challenges promptly, and maintain consistent follow-through throughout the sales process. Required Qualifications Minimum 5 years of successful B2B sales and account management experience in technical manufacturing, engineered components, or a closely related industry. Proven track record of independently generating new business, securing customers, and growing existing accounts. Demonstrated ability to manage the complete sales cycle and consistently convert opportunities into purchase orders. Experience working directly with OEMs, engineers, procurement teams, and technical decision-makers. Strong understanding of RFQs, technical quotations, pricing, and commercial negotiations. Experience managing customer relationships, resolving commercial issues, and developing repeat business. Self-motivated, resourceful, and persistent, with the ability to manage priorities and deliver results without constant supervision. Strong communication, negotiation, problem-solving, and relationship-building skills. Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with technical and manufacturing teams. Proficiency with CRM systems, pipeline management, and sales forecasting. Willingness to travel for customer meetings and industry events. Preferred Qualifications Sales exp…

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