We are looking for an Inside Sales Specialist to join a wholesale distribution organization in Gardena, California. This contract opportunity with potential for a permanent role is ideal for someone who enjoys supporting customers, coordinating orders, and keeping sales operations running smoothly in a fast-paced in-office environment. The role works closely with distribution partners, resellers, internal teams, and warehouse contacts to deliver responsive service, accurate information, and timely follow-through.
Responsibilities:
- Respond to customer and partner inquiries regarding order progress, product availability, estimated delivery timing, pricing questions, shipment issues, credits, and tracking details.
- Enter and manage sales orders while maintaining visibility into open orders, shipment schedules, and priority changes for products and service parts.
- Receive inbound sales inquiries, qualify or route opportunities appropriately, and coordinate follow-up with partners, distributors, and internal sales contacts.
- Oversee sample and evaluation requests from initial intake through documentation, status tracking, and reporting.
- Review and administer pricing exception requests, ensuring proper records, communication, and resolution.
- Prepare distributor stock rotation analyses and complete related reporting within required turnaround times.
- Coordinate with third-party warehouse partners on shipping activity, order conversions, and fulfillment updates, including preparation of proforma invoices and other international shipping documents.
- Maintain organized electronic and paper records, update customer routing guide documentation, and produce recurring spreadsheets and operational reports for leadership and cross-functional teams.
- 3-5 years of on-site experience in inside sales, customer service, sales operations, or order management within a distribution or related business environment.
- Strong working knowledge of Excel, Word, and Outlook, with the ability to create and maintain clear reports and spreadsheets.
- Experience using ERP or order processing systems to manage transactions, inventory visibility, and customer information.
- Solid analytical and problem-solving skills with careful attention to accuracy, deadlines, and follow-up.
- Strong communication skills and a customer-focused approach when working with external partners and internal departments.
- Ability to learn product details well enough to address basic technical questions and support day-to-day customer needs.
- Completion of at least two years of college coursework or equivalent relevant work experience.
- Japanese language skills are a plus.