AIM Magazine 2016 | Page 97

The company recently started hiring some college graduates , but a degree is not required , Taylor said .
Those working in material handling and delivery can earn from $ 20,000 to $ 50,000 per year , Fincher said . The office clerical staff can earn from $ 20,000 to $ 60,000 per year , with sales representatives making $ 20,000 to $ 100,000 per year , she added .
Starting as a delivery driver allows workers to learn the products and the customers , Taylor said . The company does not load a truck and run a route . Orders are delivered as they are placed , he said .
“ We ’ ve gone to the same construction site two or three times a day ,” Taylor said . “ We want our customers to have whatever product they need , when they need it .”
Moving up to working in the warehouse allows employees to learn even more about the products , how the materials come in and how they are shipped .
“ I worked shipping and receiving , learning how to check products in and send them out ,” Farquharson said . “ I learned what we had in our inventory and how it was stored .”
Star Mechanical has a large inventory , Taylor said .
“ Stocking just in time to ship it out doesn ’ t work for us . When our customers need something , we want to have it on hand to ship that day .”
Another warehouse is being built to let Star Mechanical store more products , including those bought by customers when prices are low and held for delivery until needed .
Sales is a challenging job , Farquharson said . “ Good keyboarding skills help ,” he said . “ Also , the ability for multitasking .”
Star doesn ’ t try to poach employees from competitors , but workers with experience in distribution do seek them out , Taylor said .
If you are interested in a career at Star Mechanical , you need a clean driving record , and you might consider taking agriculture classes , Taylor said . An agricultural background is helpful but not required . The most important quality is initiative , he added .
“ We want people who have goals in life ,” Taylor said . “ People can advance faster with a desire to learn . They can reach their goals and add to them .”
“ Keep an open mind ,” Farquharson said . “ When someone is talking , listen . Be ready to apply the knowledge you ’ ve learned to whatever task you are given .”
The attitude of employees is important , Farquharson said .
“ Stay humble , work hard ,” he added . “ Dedication is worth a lot .”
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