How to become a sales engineer
Sell business goods or services, the selling of which requires a technical background equivalent to a baccalaureate degree in engineering.
Steps to get there
Most employers expect most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not..A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
What sales engineers do
- Collaborate with sales teams to understand customer requirements, to promote the sale of company products, and to provide sales support.
- Create sales or service contracts for products or services.
- Identify resale opportunities and support them to achieve sales plans.
- Recommend improved materials or machinery to customers, documenting how such changes will lower costs or increase production.
- Secure and renew orders and arrange delivery.
- Develop sales plans to introduce products in new markets.
Skills that matter most
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Writing
- Active Learning
- Mathematics
- Learning Strategies
Is sales engineer a good career?
On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 145% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.
Where it pays most
- Delaware $167,200
- Maryland $153,410
- Rhode Island $149,750
- Washington $147,620
- Colorado $139,990
Sales Engineers salary by state and city
Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.