Sales Associate

At Jacobsen Salt Co. we craft top-shelf cooking ingredients, re-envision classic products and recipes, and provide unforgettable culinary experiences every day. Founded in 2011 as the first saltworks in the Pacific Northwest since the 1800s, we have grown from a local, small business to a nationally recognized brand as America’s leading salt maker and purveyor of quality pantry staples.

The Sales Associate is an entry-level sales position responsible for supporting sales performance across multiple channels and customer types, with a focus on independent retailers and foodservice accounts. This hybrid sales role includes outside sales, inside sales, merchandising, and administrative reporting. The Sales Associate will play a key role in relationship management, product presentations, promotional planning, and merchandising support.

This role supports all independent retailers and restaurants, regardless of geographic territory, and is responsible for new account outreach, product launches, seasonal offerings, and ongoing promotional support. For chain retailers, the Sales Associate’s responsibilities are limited to merchandising and store-level support.

The ideal candidate brings initiative, strong communication skills, and a passion for food.


Key Responsibilities

Independent Account Management

  • Serve as a point of contact for all independent retail and foodservice accounts.

  • Manage relationships, present new and seasonal items, plan and execute promotional programs, and ensure excellent service and follow-through.

  • Conduct in-person visits, phone check-ins, and email outreach to maintain strong relationships and drive growth.

  • Prospect and present to potential new independent retailers and restaurants.

Chain Account Merchandising

  • Provide in-store merchandising support at chain retailers.

  • Implement and maintain branded displays, ensure product visibility, and report on store-level conditions.

  • Support brand presence but do not manage sales or promotions for chain accounts.

Sales Process Management

  • Assess client needs and tailor presentations, demos, and service offerings accordingly.

  • Support the onboarding process and maintain a consistent communication cadence with accounts.

  • Assist with forecasting and planning around seasonal product releases and promotions.

Lead Generation & Prospecting

  • Proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities among independent retailers and restaurants.

  • Use cold outreach, referrals, and field visits to generate leads.

  • Pass along leads outside of scope per internal team protocol.

Reporting & CRM

  • Maintain accurate records of sales activity, client interactions, and performance metrics in internal systems.

  • Provide insight and feedback to inform sales strategy and account planning.

Collaboration & Communication

  • Work closely with internal departments including marketing, customer service, and operations.

  • Participate in sales meetings, share field insights, and contribute to group strategy discussions.

Budget & Travel Management

  • Use allocated monthly budgets responsibly, prioritizing client-focused activities.

  • Submit itineraries and budget forecasts ahead of sales trips, in compliance with company policies.

Company & Product Knowledge

  • Develop a strong understanding of Jacobsen Salt Co. products, brand story, and sales strategy.

  • Represent the brand with integrity and professionalism across all touchpoints.


Requirements 

Experience

  • Minimum 2 years in a customer service, account management, or sales-related role preferred.

  • Entry-level applicants with strong communication and organizational skills will be considered.

Technical Skills

  • Proficiency in Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Excel, and PowerPoint.

  • CRM experience.

  • Adobe Creative Suite and QuickBooks knowledge is a plus.

Other

  • Reliable personal transportation and valid driver’s license.

  • Ability to obtain a food handler’s permit (not required at time of hire).

  • Willingness to travel and work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends.

Essential Skills

  • Communication: Clear written and verbal communication; comfortable presenting to small and large groups.

  • Interpersonal: Ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.

  • Sales Acumen: Understanding of basic sales principles and customer service best practices.

  • Organization: Strong multitasking, follow-through, and time management.

  • Problem-Solving: Resourceful and responsive in addressing client and internal challenges.

  • Analytical Thinking: Comfortable reviewing sales data and making recommendations.

  • Product Knowledge: Enthusiasm for learning and sharing product details and brand story.


Working Conditions

  • Regular in-person visits to accounts (local and regional).
  • Occasional travel for sales trips, meetings, and events.
  • Hybrid office/field schedule with flexibility required based on account needs.


Reports To

  • Grocery Sales Manager and Senior Sales Manager

Starting hourly rate for this position is $23.00-$24.25, based on experience, education, and qualifications.. Benefits include paid time off and paid company holidays, as well as eligibility for health/dental/vision benefits after 60 days and 401(k) after one year.

Jacobsen Salt Co. is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in the value that diversity brings to an organization. As a community, we are committed to creating a workplace where learning is a key principle. We look for collaborative and resourceful team players who believe in our mission to inspire people to cook, eat, and live well.


To Apply

Please send your resume and cover letter to jobs@jacobsensalt.com with your first and last name and job title in the subject line. Example: Jane Doe – Sales Associate. Listing will remain open until filled.