Sales Engineer - Metals

Vacuum Induction Melting (VIM) and Vacuum Arc Remelting (VAR) Specialist

Your role: Please note: Candidates must have deep, firsthand operational experience in metals processing, specifically with Vacuum Induction Melting (VIM) and Vacuum Arc Remelting (VAR). Experience should go beyond theoretical knowledge and include direct involvement in furnace operation, process optimization, troubleshooting, maintenance, within specialty metals production environments. Preferred candidates will have backgrounds in operations, process engineering, or maintenance leadership within facilities producing high-performance alloys, aerospace-grade materials, titanium, nickel-based superalloys, or specialty steels. Relocation assistance may be offered for the ideal candidate. Leybold North America is accelerating growth in the metals and specialty alloys market, and this role plays a key part in that expansion. We are seeking a driven, team-oriented professional who excels at winning new business and developing long-term relationships. This position combines strong business development with strategic account ownership. You will target superalloy and advanced metallurgical operationsbuilding pipeline, securing new accounts, and growing them into high-value partnerships. You will lead business development across the Southern U.S., owning demand generation, pipeline creation, new customer acquisition, and account growth for Leybold's vacuum and engineered solutions portfolio. Success in this role means opening new doors, winning business, and driving sustained revenue growth.

Main Responsibilities

• New Business Development
• Identify and win new customers in specialty steel, alloy, and metallurgical markets
• Execute a proactive territory strategy across the Southern U.S.
• Generate pipeline through outreach, networking, plant visits, and referrals
• Penetrate competitor-held accounts and position Leybold as the preferred partner
• Technical Sales & Solution Positioning
• Lead technical discussions on vacuum systems and metallurgical applications
• Position solutions for melting, degassing, and secondary metallurgy
• Translate customer needs into technical and commercial proposals
• Manage the full sales cycle through close
• Field Engagement & Customer Acquisition
• Conduct regular on-site visits to facilities and melt shops
• Build relationships with plant, engineering, and technical leaders
• Support system start-ups and early customer success
• Convert initial wins into long-term partnerships
• Pipeline & Territory Management
• Maintain a strong, self-generated pipeline with clear visibility
• Exceed activity targets (meetings, visits, opportunities)
• Monitor competitors, market trends, and project cycles
• Provide accurate, data-driven forecasts
• Internal Collaboration
• Partner with Engineering and Service teams on tailored solutions
• Align internally to drive speed and competitiveness
• Share market insights to support strategic decision-making

Education & Experience

515 years of experience in technical sales, applications engineering, or metallurgical/process engineering

Proven success hunting, prospecting, and closing new business

Experience selling capital equipment or engineered systems into industrial markets

Industry background in metals, vacuum technology, furnaces, or related sectors

Willingness to travel extensively (approximately 5070%) across the region

Core Competencies & Skills

Hunter Mentality (Critical)

Relentless drive to develop and win new business

Comfortable with cold outreach, rejection, and extended sales cycles

Highly self-motivated; does not rely on inbound leads or existing accounts

Competitive, results-driven, and energized by building territories from zero

Strong ownership mindset over territory performance and outcomes

Technical & Industry Expertise

Working knowledge of vacuum furnaces, melt shops, and metallurgical processes

Familiarity with specialty steels, alloys, casting, and secondary metallurgy

Ability to engage effectively with both technical and executive stakeholders

Additional Requirements

Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

High-energy individual with strong curiosity and execution focus

Fast learner with the ability to think creatively and independently

Ability to work autonomously from a home-office environment

Mechanical, vacuum, or fluid systems aptitude is a plus

Valid driver's license required

Military veterans encouraged to apply; Navy nuclear experience strongly preferred

In Return, We Offer

At Leybold, we are driven by the belief that there is always a better way. Our culture is defined by openness to change, continuous improvement, and constructive feedback. We invest in your long-term success through individualized development pathways, global career opportunities, and advanced technical training via our internal academy. Employee safety and well-being are non-negotiable priorities. We maintain rigorous workplace safety standards to ensure a secure and supportive environment. We offer a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; paid vacation, sick time, and holidays; 401(k); parental leave; short- and long-term disability; and relocation assistance, where applicable. Compensation salary is location-dependent and based on experience, qualifications, and market considerations.