Sales Associates accomplish sales, merchandising and distribution goals by assisting the execution of business objectives and company initiatives. Key Responsibilities * Effectively sell, rotate and merchandise the Columbia Distributing portfolio in all assigned accounts. * Provide route relief for Sales Representatives as scheduled. * Interact respectfully and maintain dialogue with inter-company departments, suppliers and customers * Establish and maintain a high level of industry knowledge: beer, non-alcoholic, food journals, trends, market share, etc. * Maintain appropriate themed programs to meet supplier and company standards. * Submit all required reporting, preplans, trackers, surveys, market surveys (MVPs), expense report, mileage log, etc. by the required due date. * Manage inventory expenses in accordance with company policy. * Understand and assist with MVP Standards. * Monitor competitive activity and communicate strategies. Key Competencies * Strong sense of accountability * General knowledge of industry products. * Excellent oral and written communication skills. * Ability to develop strong relationships with internal and external customers. * Ability to work independently while managing multiple tasks and meet deadlines. Work Environment Work indoors with frequent walking in customer accounts Physical Demands * Lift/Carry and Push/Pull up to 50lbs * Bend/stoop/crouch/squat/use arms/wrists/hands/grasp. * Use of industry tools: hand truck, six wheeler, manual pallet jack, box cutter * Work indoors and outdoors. * Driving required Position Type/Expected Hours of Work This is a full-time position, days/hours of work vary, and may include weekends. Travel Ability to travel throughout the day to customer accounts. Required Education and Experience * High School diploma or GED required * Valid driver's license and auto insurance required; Minimum of 21 years of age. Preferred Education and Experience * Bachelor's degree * 1 year of previous beverage industry sales experience Compensation * Actual compensation packages are based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, years and depth of experience, certifications, and specific location. * Employees (and their families) are eligible for medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees are able to enroll in our company's 401k plan. Employees are also eligible for 80 hours of vacation every year and 7-8 days of paid holidays throughout the calendar year (depending on location). * Hired applicant may be eligible for incentives/ bonuses/ annual bonuses. Classification: Non-ExemptReports to: District Manager Equal Opportunity Employer including Disability/Vets