Systems (Sales) Engineer Northeast

As a Systems (Sales) Engineer at Forward Networks, your responsibilities will include serving as the primary technical resource for the sales team while working closely with large enterprise accounts. You'll be tasked with driving and managing evaluations of our Forward Enterprise platform, ensuring that potential clients can appreciate the business and technical value we offer. Your role will also involve delivering product demonstrations, responding to RFI/RFP inquiries, and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders throughout the sales process.

To qualify for the Systems (Sales) Engineer role at Forward Networks, candidates should have over 5 years of experience selling to large enterprise customers, particularly in networking or relevant software. A strong understanding of networking and security solutions is essential, alongside excellent verbal and written communication skills. Familiarity with scripting or programming (like Python or bash) along with a BS in Computer Science or related field is highly preferred, and relevant certifications such as CCIE are a plus.

Forward Networks values candidates who bring 5-10 years of successful experience as a Systems Engineer, especially those with a track record of selling to large enterprise accounts. Experience working in a startup environment is desirable, and familiarity with API-driven workflows will set you apart. Strong presentation skills and technical knowledge will enable you to thrive in engaging potential clients and effectively communicating the advantages of our platform.

The expected On-Target Cash Earnings for the Systems (Sales) Engineer role at Forward Networks range between $225,000 and $280,000 per year. Individual compensation within this range will depend on various factors, including job-related skills, relevant experience, and education. This competitive pay reflects our commitment to attracting top talent as we innovate in the networking space.

As a Systems (Sales) Engineer, you will engage with customers at all phases of the sales cycle. Your role will involve providing the technical expertise necessary to support the sales team, addressing customer inquiries, and delivering tailored product demonstrations. Building lasting relationships with clients is crucial, as you’ll serve as their advocate within the company, ensuring a smooth transition from initial contact to product deployment.

To answer this question effectively, choose a concept like network security and break it down into simple, relatable terms. Use analogies and avoid jargon. For example, you might compare a firewall to a security guard that monitors who can enter a building, ensuring only trusted individuals gain access. This shows your technical knowledge and communication skills.

Addressing technical objections requires a respectful and patient approach. First, listen attentively to the client's concern. Then, provide clear, evidence-based responses that highlight the strengths of the Forward Enterprise platform. Use case studies or testimonials to demonstrate similar challenges other clients faced and how your solution successfully addressed them.

Select a specific challenge related to tech sales, like a difficult negotiation or a failed demo. Describe the steps you took to rectify the situation, emphasizing your problem-solving and relationship-building skills. Conclude by explaining what the outcome was and what you learned from the experience that you could apply in your new role at Forward Networks.

Share your methods for researching trends, such as subscribing to industry publications, attending webinars, or joining professional organizations. You can mention specific resources or channels like networking blogs, forums, or following thought leaders on social media, highlighting your commitment to ongoing professional development.

Discuss your preparation process for product demos, emphasizing the importance of understanding the client’s needs. Highlight how you tailor the presentation to address specific pain points and use engaging visuals or real-world scenarios. Follow up after the demo for feedback to ensure the client feels heard and valued.

Share any experience you have with scripting languages like Python or bash, specifically how you've used them to automate tasks or improve workflows. Discussing a specific example where you utilized scripting to solve a problem or streamline your processes will demonstrate your technical competency and problem-solving abilities.

Choose an example that illustrates your ability to remain calm and empathetic. Describe the customer's concerns and how you approached the situation collaboratively. Your ability to resolve their issues and ultimately build a positive relationship will showcase your customer service skills.

Explain the process of evaluating a client's technical infrastructure, including gathering technical requirements and assessing compatibility. Discuss your collaboration with internal teams to ensure that the solution meets their needs and how you communicate findings to the sales team and the client.

Share personal anecdotes or experiences that fueled your passion. Discuss what motivates you in tech sales, such as solving complex problems and helping clients achieve their goals through innovative solutions. Your enthusiasm for the field will resonate in interviews and make you more relatable.

Highlight your appreciation for Forward Networks' achievements and culture, such as its innovative approach and commitment to customer satisfaction. Connect your career goals and values to the company’s mission, emphasizing your eagerness to contribute to their growth and success in the networking industry.