At Knife River, we take care of our team because we know it’s our people who make us successful. We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the Country, and we are a PEOPLE-first company. Our team members are the key to our success, and we are committed to giving them the tools, training, and time to do their jobs productively and safely each day. Our goal is to build strong teams that, in turn, build strong communities. We are also a publicly traded company on the NYSE with the ticker symbol KNF and part of the S&P MidCap 400 index.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a motivated and results-driven Sales Representative to lead ready-mix concrete sales for a single-plant operation within a larger, well-established organization. This role is responsible for developing new business, maintaining strong customer relationships, and maximizing plant utilization within the local market.
The ideal candidate understands the construction industry, thrives in a competitive environment, and can balance customer service with profitability and operational constraints.
Duties and/or responsibilities:
Sales & Business Development
- Develop and grow ready-mix concrete sales within the local market area
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities with contractors, developers, and project owners
- Maintain and expand relationships with existing customers to ensure repeat business
- Actively track project pipelines, bids, and upcoming work in the territory
Customer Relationship Management
- Serve as the primary contact for key accounts and jobsite stakeholders
- Provide product knowledge, mix recommendations, and technical support (in coordination with QC when needed)
- Conduct regular job-site visits to ensure customer satisfaction and identify additional opportunities
- Resolve customer concerns related to pricing, delivery, and product performance
Pricing & Profitability
- Develop and manage pricing strategies in alignment with company guidelines
- Balance volume, margin, and plant capacity to maximize profitability of the operation
- Monitor job costing and performance to ensure projects meet financial targets
- Collaborate with leadership on strategic bidding and contract negotiations
Operational Coordination
- Work closely with order takers, dispatch, plant personnel, and QC staff to ensure smooth execution of customer orders
- Communicate project requirements, schedules, and special conditions to operations teams
- Align sales efforts with plant capabilities, material availability, and trucking resources
- Help manage demand to maintain consistent plant utilization
Market Intelligence
- Monitor local market conditions, including competitor activity, pricing trends, and construction demand
- Provide feedback to leadership on market opportunities and risks
- Support forecasting and production planning efforts
Corporate Alignment
- Execute company sales strategies and initiatives at the local level
- Maintain accurate CRM data, sales reports, and forecasts
- Collaborate with regional sales and operations teams to share best practices
Qualifications
- 3–7+ years of sales experience, preferably in ready-mix concrete, aggregates, or construction materials
- Strong understanding of construction processes, project timelines, and concrete applications
- Proven track record of building relationships and growing sales
- Valid driver’s license required
- Bachelor’s degree preferred (or equivalent industry experience)
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong relationship-building and negotiation skills
- High level of business acumen (pricing, margins, volume management)
- Ability to manage multiple projects and customers simultaneously
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
- Self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership over the assigned territory
- Ability to work cross-functionally with operations, QC, and leadership teams
Work Environment
- Combination of office, plant, and field-based work, including frequent jobsite visits
- Fast-paced environment tied to construction schedules and seasonal demand
- Flexible hours as needed to meet customer and project requirements
What We Offer
- Competitive base salary plus commission/bonus structure
- Company vehicle or vehicle allowance
- Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401k)
- Paid time off and holidays
- Opportunity to grow within a large, established organization while maintaining local market ownership
Apply Today
If you are driven to win business, build lasting customer relationships, and play a key role in a high-performing operation, we encourage you to apply.
How To Apply
You may apply online at http://jobs.kniferiver.net (http://jobs.kniferiver.com)
If unable to apply online, mail completed application to:
PO Box 80066
Billings, MT 59108
Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background checks.
Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law.
Veterans: Put your Skills to Work with Us!
At Knife River, we are committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. We are constantly looking to add veterans to our workforce and want to make the transition as smooth as possible. There are many jobs within the military that are transferable to our Sales Representative position!
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
