Field Representative/Merchandiser, ENERGY STAR Products Program

Applied Proactive Technologies promotes energy efficiency/ retailer outreach programs for electric utility companies throughout the United States. We are a company of about 100 full time associates based in Springfield, MA with satellite offices in Oregon, New York, and Illinois. One of our missions is to help the environment and reduce the effects of global climate change. We use electric utility funding/sponsorship to create incentive programs as well as educate retailers and their consumers on products that use less electricity and, consequently, reduce emissions.

Many of our programs use the National EPA/DOE ENERGY STAR products platform for our multi-faceted outreach campaigns. Most notably, we promote the use of compact fluorescent light bulbs (or CFLs). Our efforts are conducted primarily through forming partnerships with retailers such as: The Home Depot, Sears, Costco and many others. In order to successfully implement such a meaningful and important endeavor, we require individuals who are capable of making a strong value proposition to retail and manufacturing partners.  

Position Overview:

The overall responsibilities include but are not limited to representing both APT and its clients in a professional and responsible manner, conducting outreach activities cost effectively and efficiently, ensuring the enthusiastic participation of dealers and distributors, maintaining detailed records, working within a team environment and adhering to APT and utility protocols, procedures and policies.

This position requires that the Program Field Representative reside in Washington. The ideal candidate will live somewhere between Tacoma and Everett Washington.

This is a part time, 20 hours per week position.

Responsibilities: 

Specific Short/Long Term Responsibilities:

1. Conduct recurring site visits to each store (to include Home Depot, Lowe's, independent appliance retailers, etc.).
2. Correctly fill out site call reports and time sheet system.
3. Provide merchandising services and all placement of collateral materials.
4. Attend trade shows and training events (weekends) throughout the territory.
5. Arrange and coordinate promotional events (weekends) to increase the participation in the program.
6. Work with local, regional, and national programs to gain recognition and increase participation.
7. Provide services within the parameters of the terms and conditions of the contract with the utility clients.
8. Attend scheduled staff meetings and/or conference calls.
9. Call the office daily for check-ins.
10. Collect store data that includes (but is not limited to) sales information and store inventory.
11. Learn about the industry and attend all company training events.
12. Collaborate with management team to design and implement routes/schedules that maximize efficiency of travel time and mileage.
13. Conduct formal and informal training sessions with retail sales staff.
14. Maintain a residence within service territory.
15. Make recommendations that can enhance our delivery of services.
16. Other duties as assigned.

Services Provided to Participating Retailers:

Program representatives are charged with the responsibility to call on retailers to explain the program, ensure their participation, and provide a variety of support activities to participating retailers and utilities. These support activities will include:

• Retailer Training:

Training sessions for all retailers (who agree to participate in the program) will be scheduled and conducted according to the individual retailer's needs and schedules. Training is not limited to just product knowledge. There are several modules that field representatives will be responsible to implement to varying levels of retail staff (from store owners to cashiers to bookkeepers). Different staff people require specific training on relevant components of a program. For example, a cashier is not concerned with product knowledge, but is very interested in learning how to process an instant coupon. These modules will be reviewed by the program manager and will be tailored specific to the needs of that utility program.

Each training module differs, ranging from informal discussions with the sales staff at small retailers to full scale presentations at sales meetings in the large chain outlets. In any case, all "floor" reps should be provided with a complete understanding of the program to ensure that they are familiar with the program, its goals, and its benefits.

• Merchandising: Collateral Material Delivery and Placement:

Program representatives will be on hand to assist in determining which products qualify for the program. Further, this representative will deliver and assist in placing the POP materials in strategic areas. To ensure that there is an adequate supply of these materials, and to continue assisting in keeping the POP materials fresh, the representative will visit periodically over the course of the program.

Point of Purchase materials include but are not limited to, the following:

1. Counter top display (or floor display) and rebate holder
2. Promotional Tent Cards
3. Labels that identify qualifying appliances
4. Energy Star logo use for local advertising usage
5. Any other supplementary materials that are created as the program evolves and matures

In-Store Promotions:

Over the course of the program, field personnel will be available to provide retailers with in-store promotional events. These events entail field personnel setting up displays and demonstration tools to educate consumers on the positive benefits of the Energy Efficient Products and Appliances. Where appropriate the field personnel will assist store personnel in actually selling inventory during these promotions.

General Program and Retailer Support:

On a regular basis a program representative will conduct follow-up visits. The intent of these visits will be to ensure that all retailers are satisfied with the program and are staying actively involved. In addition, these ongoing visits will provide the opportunity to:

1. Answer retailer and sales staff questions or concerns that may arise as a result of the program.
2. Obtain feedback on customer reaction to the program.
3. Deliver and assist in setting up point-of-purchase displays and ensure that all point-of-purchase materials are properly placed and prominently displayed.
4. Share information regarding new product releases, industry studies, research, and trends in the appliance industry.
5. Provide details on program enhancements and changes as they arise.
6. Fill out all the required paperwork specific to the reporting needs and specifications of the utility.

Qualifications:

Experience:

• 3 years experience in sales, customer service, lighting industry or appliance industry
• Prior experience in using computers including word processing, form development, spread sheets, power point presentation, and databases.
• Interest in conservation and energy efficiency
• Excellent communication and people skills, both verbal and written.
• Excellent presentation skills

Behavioral:

• "Can do" attitude
• Ability to communicate and establish good relationships
• Team Player
• Flexible
• Thirst for learning

Physical:

• Able to ride in automobiles for long distances and timeframes
• Able to lift up to 25 lb. boxes of Pop materials and event/display set-up.

Training:

• Successful completion of required training sessions
• Successful completion of all comprehension tests
• Computer as required

Performance Evaluation:

1. Performance will be monitored continuously and any necessary guidance or encouragement will be communicated as the situation warrants.
2. Formal written evaluations will be given:

• If needed, upon completion of orientation period.
• Upon completion of first full year of employment
• Annually thereafter on anniversary date

All evaluations will be conducted by the Program Manager

To Apply: 

Cover letter required to be considered for this position.