Job Description

At Knife River, we take care of our teams because we know they are the foundation of our success. We are one of the nation’s largest construction materials producers and contractors, and our goal is to build strong teams that, in turn, build strong communities. Join us and make an impact that will last for generations.

ROLE OVERVIEW:

We are seeking a highly motivated, relationship-focused Sales Representative to grow ready-mix concrete sales, develop new business opportunities, and strengthen customer relationships for our Rockdale Ready Mix plant and surrounding areas. This position is responsible for identifying and developing new business opportunities, cultivating and maintaining strong customer relationships, and maximizing plant utilization and revenue growth within the local market. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability to generate sales, deliver exceptional customer service, and contribute to the overall success of the operation through strategic market development and account management.

The ideal candidate understands the construction industry, thrives in a competitive environment, and can balance customer service with profitability and operational constraints.

Duties and/or responsibilities:

Sales & Business Development

1. Develop and grow ready-mix concrete sales within the local market area.
2. Identify and pursue new business opportunities with contractors, developers, and project owners.
3. Maintain and expand relationships with existing customers to ensure repeat business.
4. Actively track project pipelines, bids, and upcoming work in the territory.

Customer Relationship Management

1. Serve as the primary contact for key accounts and jobsite stakeholders.
2. Provide product knowledge, mix recommendations, and technical support (in coordination with QC when needed).
3. Conduct regular job-site visits to ensure customer satisfaction and identify additional opportunities.
4. Resolve customer concerns related to pricing, delivery, and product performance.

Pricing & Profitability

1. Develop and manage pricing strategies in alignment with company guidelines.
2. Balance volume, margin, and plant capacity to maximize profitability of the operation.
3. Monitor job costing and performance to ensure projects meet financial targets.
4. Collaborate with leadership on strategic bidding and contract negotiations.

Operational Coordination

1. Work closely with order takers, dispatch, plant personnel, and QC staff to ensure smooth execution of customer orders.
2. Communicate project requirements, schedules, and special conditions to operations teams.
3. Align sales efforts with plant capabilities, material availability, and trucking resources.
4. Help manage demand to maintain consistent plant utilization.

Market Intelligence

1. Monitor local market conditions, including competitor activity, pricing trends, and construction demand.
2. Provide feedback to leadership on market opportunities and risks.
3. Support forecasting and production planning efforts.

Corporate Alignment

1. Execute company sales strategies and initiatives at the local level.
2. Maintain accurate CRM data, sales reports, and forecasts.
3. Collaborate with regional sales and operations teams to share best practices.

Qualifications:

1. 3–7+ years of sales experience, preferably in ready-mix concrete, aggregates, or construction materials.
2. Strong understanding of construction processes, project timelines, and concrete applications.
3. Proven track record of building relationships and growing sales.
4. Valid driver’s license required.
5. Bachelor’s degree preferred (or equivalent industry experience).

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

1. Strong relationship-building and negotiation skills.
2. High level of business acumen (pricing, margins, volume management).
3. Ability to manage multiple projects and customers simultaneously.
4. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
5. Self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership over the assigned territory.
6. Ability to work cross-functionally with operations, QC, and leadership teams.

Work Environment:

1. Combination of office, plant, and field-based work, including frequent jobsite visits.
2. Fast-paced environment tied to construction schedules and seasonal demand.
3. Flexible hours as needed to meet customer and project requirements.

Veterans: Put your Skills to Work with Us!

At Knife River, we are committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. We are constantly looking to add veterans to our workforce and want to make the transition as smooth as possible. There are many jobs within the military that are transferable to our Sales Representative position!

Benefits:

1. Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
2. Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
3. 401(k) with Company Match
4. Profit Sharing
5. Paid Time Off
6. Paid Sick Time
7. 8 Paid Holidays
8. Company Paid Life and AD&D Insurance
9. Short-term Disability
10. Employee Assistance Program
11. Years of Service Recognition
12. Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouses, and Dependents
13. Critical Illness Plan
14. Accident Coverage Plan
15. Hospital Indemnity

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal laws.

Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background checks.

All applications are submitted online. If you are having issues completing the application, please come to the office for assistance.