External Sales Representative [Chemical/Lab equipment]

Recruiter

Sci Tech Placements

Job Ref

CPT000086/MC

Date posted

Thursday, July 16, 2026

Location

Johannesburg, South Africa

SUMMARY

Our client is seeking a dynamic, technically minded, and results-driven

External Sales Representative to develop new business opportunities and grow existing customer accounts within the scientific, laboratory, industrial, and research markets, Johannesburg

POSITION INFO

The successful candidate will be responsible for promoting and selling laboratory chemicals, consumables, glassware, instruments, and scientific equipment while building long-term customer relationships and achieving sales targets. Key Responsibilities Develop and manage a portfolio of customers across assigned territories. Identify and secure new business opportunities within laboratories, universities, research institutions, manufacturing facilities, mining companies, pharmaceutical organisations, food & beverage companies, and testing laboratories. Promote a range of laboratory chemicals, consumables, equipment, instrumentation, and scientific products. Conduct customer visits, presentations, product demonstrations, and solution-based sales consultations. Prepare and present quotations, proposals, and tenders. Negotiate pricing and commercial agreements within approved guidelines. Follow up on quotations and actively convert opportunities into sales. Collaborate closely with the internal sales and technical support teams. Maintain accurate records of customer interactions, opportunities, and sales forecasts using CRM systems. Stay informed regarding market developments, competitor activities, and customer requirements. Attend industry exhibitions, conferences, and networking events as required. Achieve and exceed monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets. Minimum Requirements Qualifications Diploma or Degree in: Chemistry Biotechnology Microbiology Analytical Chemistry Life Sciences Laboratory Technology Sales & Marketing Or a related scientific discipline Experience Minimum 3-5 years' external sales experience within: Scientific equipment Laboratory consumables Laboratory chemicals Analytical instrumentation Medical diagnostics Technical or industrial product sales Knowledge & Skills Strong understanding of laboratory environments and scientific products. Proven track record of achieving sales targets. Strong commercial and negotiation skills. Ability to communicate technical information clearly and professionally. Excellent relationship-building and networking abilities. Proficient in Microsoft Office and CRM systems. Strong planning, organisational, and time-management skills. Preferred Requirements Existing network within laboratories, universities, pharmaceutical companies, contract testing laboratories, food and beverage manufacturers, mining laboratories, and research institutions. Experience selling laboratory equipment, instrumentation, chemicals, glassware, or laboratory consumables. Exposure to tender submissions and key account management. Personal Attributes Highly motivated and self-driven. Professional and customer-focused. Strong problem-solving and consultative selling skills. Results-oriented with a passion for business development. Excellent communication and presentation skills. Ability to work independently and manage a territory effectively. Strong attention to detail and follow-through. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Achievement of monthly and annual sales targets. New business acquisition. Growth of existing customer accounts. Quotation-to-sales conversion rate. Customer retention and satisfaction. Sales pipeline and opportunity management. Territory growth and market penetration. Additional Requirements Valid South African driver's licence. Own reliable vehicle. Willingness to travel regularly within Gauteng and occasionally nationally. Ability to work independently and manage customer visits effectively. Remuneration Market-related basic salary. Attractive commission and incentive structure. Travel allowance. Company cell phone and business tools. Opportunities for professional growth and development.