Metal Finishing Sales Development Specialist

Capron Manufacturing, a metal finishing company based in Capron, IL, supports a hybrid work setup and offers a competitive compensation package for a Sales Development Specialist focused on advanced surface finishing solutions. The role centers on expanding our customer base in nickel plating, porcelain enamel coatings, and electropolishing, through close collaboration with OEMs, engineering teams, and procurement. Expect travel about 1 to 3 days per week as you build strong, solution-oriented relationships with clients.

What Capron Manufacturing Offers

• Competitive base salary plus a commission structure
• 401(k) with company matching
• Dental, health, and vision insurance
• Paid time off for work-life balance
• Hybrid work arrangement in Capron, IL
• Career growth within a vertically integrated finishing operation
• Exposure to diverse industries and engineered applications

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage relationships with OEMs, Tier suppliers, and industrial manufacturers
• Identify new business opportunities for nickel plating (functional and decorative), porcelain enamel coatings (high-heat, corrosion-resistant), and electropolishing (precision finishing for stainless and specialty alloys)
• Collaborate with customers’ engineering and design teams to recommend optimal finishing processes
• Review drawings, specs, and RFQs to ensure manufacturability and alignment with Capron capabilities
• Prepare and present technical proposals, quotes, and cost breakdowns
• Serve as the liaison between customer and internal teams (engineering, production, quality)
• Support new product launches, sampling, and validation processes
• Track market trends, competitor activity, and emerging finishing technologies
• Maintain CRM pipeline and meet sales targets

Requirements

• 3–7+ years in technical sales, metal finishing, coatings, or related manufacturing
• Strong understanding of surface finishing processes (plating, coating, polishing) and metals behavior (steel, stainless, alloys)
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications
• Experience working with OEM programs and production environments
• Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills
• Experience using CRM systems

Typical Applications You'll Support

• Appliance components such as racks, cavities, and structural parts
• Food equipment and sanitary stainless assemblies
• Furniture and industrial hardware
• High-temperature and corrosion-resistant components

Preferred Experience

• Background in appliance, furniture, HVAC, medical, or industrial components
• Familiarity with corrosion resistance standards (ASTM, ISO), cosmetic versus functional surface requirements, and high-volume production and cost modeling

Key Competencies

• Technical aptitude paired with a consultative sales approach
• Ability to translate complex finishing processes into clear customer value
• Strong project management and reliable follow-through
• Self-motivated with a hunter mentality for new business