Location: Nashville, TN
Type: Full-Time

Who We Are: 

Since 1992, Powerhouse Controls has been on a mission to be recognized as a world-class, single-source drive and automation systems integration supplier.

We bring exceptional technical and engineering experience to the table, but what really sets us apart is an unsurpassed level of passion and commitment. We listen, question, collaborate, analyze and assess until we’re completely convinced that our recommendation is the best solution possible.

Powerhouse Controls is on the hunt for individuals who embody the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and integrity. We’re not just seeking employees; we’re searching for trailblazers who share our passion for shaping the future of control systems and automation. If you’re fueled by the fire of creativity, if you’re driven by a desire to collaborate with a diverse community of experts, and if your commitment to ethical excellence is unwavering, then you’re exactly who we’re looking for.

Position Objective

As a Business Development Associate (BDA), you will play a crucial role in driving financial growth by identifying new business opportunities (hunting) and expanding existing relationships (farming) within the industrial automation sector. Reporting to the Business Development Manager (BDM), you will be responsible for prospecting, consultative solution sales, and maintaining strong client partnerships to drive long-term success.

This role requires a blend of technical acumen and sales expertise, working closely with engineering, operations, and marketing teams to deliver high-value automation solutions to manufacturers, system integrators, and logistics providers.

Key Accountabilities

Sales and Revenue Growth (Hunting & Farming)

• New Business Development: Identify and engage new prospects within manufacturing, logistics, and industrial automation markets. Develop tailored strategies to introduce our solutions.
• Account Expansion: Maintain and grow existing accounts by understanding their evolving needs and offering additional automation solutions.
• Solution-Based Selling: Consult with plant managers, engineers, and executives to assess their challenges and propose the right automation solutions.
• Sales Process Management: Drive the sales cycle from lead generation to contract close, ensuring seamless coordination between internal teams and the customer.
• Proposal Development: Assist in preparing proposals, RFP responses, and technical presentations to communicate value-driven solutions.

Client Relationship Management & Applications Support

• Strategic Partnerships: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, ensuring continued engagement and customer satisfaction.
• Site Assessments & Consultations: Conduct on-site visits to assess automation needs and recommend solutions to optimize operations.
• Technical Demonstrations: Present solutions, case studies, and ROI analyses that demonstrate how our automation products improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Market Research & Industry Engagement

• Industry Intelligence: Conduct research to identify market trends, competitor activities, and emerging opportunities in industrial automation.
• Trade Shows & Networking: Represent the company at trade shows (e.g., Automate, MODEX, Pack Expo), industry events, and customer meetings to expand our network.

Strategic Planning & Performance Tracking

• Sales Strategy Execution: Work with leadership to refine and implement sales strategies that align with growth objectives.
• CRM & Sales Pipeline Management: Maintain detailed records of sales activities, customer interactions, and deal progress within CRM tools.

Note: The key accountabilities are not an exhaustive list and other duties may be assigned as needed.

Qualifications & Skills

Must-Have

• Technical background in engineering, automation, or industrial solutions.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Proven ability in consultative B2B solution sales—experience with automation, robotics, or manufacturing technology is a plus.
• Strong communication & negotiation skills, with experience engaging technical and executive-level stakeholders.
• Ability to travel within North America (valid driver’s license & passport required).

Nice-to-Have

• Experience selling PLC/SCADA, AGVs, AMRs, IIoT, or industrial robotics.
• Existing network in manufacturing, logistics, or system integration.

What it takes to succeed

• Teamwork, collaboration, and strong interpersonal skills
• Results driven, strong problem solver with agile intellect
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
• Strong business acumen
• Strategic thinking
• Self-starter
• Positive attitude
• Logical and reasoning driven
• Superior organizational skills
• Customer focus
• Ability to plan and execute
• Belief in continuous improvement
• A commitment to confidentiality

Development Opportunities

The Business Development Associate will benefit from training and mentorship, with opportunities to lead new initiatives and shape their career trajectory as the company grows.

Apply Today: 

Submit your resume and a cover letter to human.resources@powerhouse.cawith the subject line Business Development Associate – Industrial Automation

Powerhouse Controls is committed to providing a barrier-free interview process and accommodating applicants’ needs in accordance with Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Human Rights Code. Should you require accommodations during the process, please contact our recruitment team.

For more information on this position, contact us at human.resources@powerhouse.ca