Sales and Operations Trainee

Hajoca Corporation is one of the country’s largest privately-held wholesale distributors of plumbing, heating & cooling, and industrial supplies. Founded in 1858, Hajoca is a company based on the principles of “Service, Integrity, Reliability,” and on relationships of trust and support with teammates, customers, and suppliers. Throughout its history, Hajoca has played an active role in shaping advances in plumbing. However, we attribute our success to two simple truths; a unique business philosophy and talented people. Hajoca is all about the people, who give us our advantage, and who will guide us successfully into the future.

Although Hajoca is a large company, we work in a decentralized environment where each of our locations, called Profit Centers (PCs), is run by the Profit Center Manager as if it were their own small business. A typical Profit Center is the heart of our business and consists of a warehouse, counter, sales office, and (sometimes) a showroom. Our PCs conduct business under unique trade names and offer a customized business approach, honoring what’s special about each local marketplace.

Hajoca Richmond is looking for a Sales and Operations Trainee at their Richmond, VA location.


Are you looking to pursue a long-term career in sales or business operations? Do you have a strong work ethic and an eagerness to learn? Do you enjoy interacting with people and building relationships? If so, then we’d like you to join our team as a Sales & Operations Trainee.

About the Program:
The Sales & Operations Development program is a multi-year rotational program aimed at investing in each trainee’s future by providing exposure to all aspects of our business. During the program, we work in a structured, thorough manner to develop an aligned understanding of your skill set and long-term career goals.

• Live into your dreams. We’ll pair your passion, skill set, and career goals with our business needs. When the program is complete, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue a long-term career in sales (counter, inside, or outside) or operations (logistics, office administration, purchasing, or technology) establishing a career path that suits your individual goals and the needs of the business.

• Learn the business. Your learning path will include on-the-job experience supplemented with coaching from experienced managers, book and computer courses, and visits with customers and vendors. You’ll learn about all aspects of our business (including warehouse procedures, operations, and sales) with guidance along the way from mentors and managers. At the 1 year mark, we’ll work together to determine whether you’ll continue on the sales or operations track.

Here's a look at what you’ll accomplish in each phase:

Phase 1: (6+ months)
• Learn about and perform work related to our warehouse operations such as receiving and shipping material, processing returned goods, making deliveries, and learning about proper truck maintenance.
• Participate in vendor product knowledge sessions.
• Complete related online courses that facilitate and supplement your learning.

Phase 2: (6+ months)
• Learn about and gain experience working in counter sales including assisting customers and other teammates, processing sales orders, providing reliable product information, and maintaining the display area.
• Participate in vendor product knowledge sessions.
• Gain experience working with residential, commercial, and repair and remodel contractors.

Phase 3: (6+ months)
• Learn about and gain experience working in either Inside Sales or Operations
• If you proceed with the Inside Sales Track, you will:
◦ Complete tasks related to pricing and margin management, bids, quotes and submittals, product procurement, and job scheduling.
◦ Develop relationships with vendors.
◦ Participate in joint sales calls with outside salespersons.
• If you proceed with the Operations Track, you will:
◦ Complete tasks related to pricing and margin management, office administration, purchasing, and technology.
◦ Develop relationships with vendors.
Phase 4:
• Work with your manager to complete a business project.
• Participate in an in-depth career discussion with your assigned Profit Center Manager and discuss which aspect of business you’re interested in pursuing.

About You:
• College degree or equivalent experience
• Experience in customer service, sales, management, or leadership roles
• Able to drive for company business. As a company business driver, you must:
◦ Be at least 18 years old.
◦ Possess a proper and valid driver’s license.
◦ Have a driving record that meets the criteria for being an Authorized Driver in accordance with comp