Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Sales Engineer is a professional who combines technical knowledge with sales skills to provide advice and support on a range of products, particularly technical or scientific products. They bridge the gap between technical expertise and customer needs in the sales process.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Moderate-term
Projected Growth: 4.7% (above average)
Annual job openings: 5,000
Direct AI exposure: 32% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 75% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $125K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $74K per year | $93K per year | $125K per year | $161K per year | $195K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $74K above the national average. | ||||
Sales Engineers typically work for companies in the technology, manufacturing, or scientific sectors. Their work environment may include offices, research facilities, and client sites, with considerable time spent traveling to meet with clients. They often work collaboratively with other sales personnel and engineering teams.
Sales Engineers play a crucial role in the sales of complex scientific and technological products. They need to have a deep understanding of the products they sell and the scientific or technical processes involved. This knowledge allows them to explain product benefits in a way that customers can understand, bridging the gap between technical expertise and practical application.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills are vital for Sales Engineers, as they must articulate complex information clearly and persuasively. They often work in fast-paced environments and need to be adaptable and resourceful, able to respond to changing customer needs and technological developments.
A career as a Sales Engineer can be both challenging and rewarding, combining technical problem-solving with the human elements of sales and customer interaction. It requires staying current with technological advancements and continuously developing both engineering and sales skills.
A bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or a related technical field is usually required. Additional training in sales, business, or marketing can also be beneficial.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
