At a Glance
- Tasks: Architect high-performance storage solutions for cutting-edge AI applications across various industries.
- Company: Join DataDirect Networks, a leader in AI and data storage innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with a focus on innovation and problem-solving.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the future of AI and data management.
- Qualifications: Strong understanding of storage architectures and customer-facing communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
This is an incredible opportunity to be part of a company that has been at the forefront of AI and high-performance data storage innovation for over two decades. DataDirect Networks (DDN) is a global market leader renowned for powering many of the world’s most demanding AI data centers, in industries ranging from life sciences and healthcare to financial services, autonomous cars, Government, academia, research and manufacturing.
DDN is the global leader in AI and multi-cloud data management at scale. Our cutting-edge data intelligence platform is designed to accelerate AI workloads, enabling organizations to extract maximum value from their data. With a proven track record of performance, reliability, and scalability, DDN empowers businesses to tackle the most challenging AI and data-intensive workloads with confidence.
This is a chance to make a significant impact at a company that is shaping the future of AI and data management. Our commitment to innovation, customer success, and market leadership makes this an exciting and rewarding role for a driven professional looking to make a lasting impact in the world of AI and data storage.
As a Sales Engineer, you'll architect high-performance storage solutions that enable customers to achieve their boldest ambitions. Work across finance, pharmaceuticals, education, and physical AI—designing systems that power real-time trading, accelerate drug discovery, enable groundbreaking research, and fuel autonomous systems. You'll translate complex customer requirements into elegant technical solutions, demonstrate capabilities through POCs and benchmarks, and serve as a trusted advisor throughout the sales cycle.
What You'll Do
- Customer Engagement
- Partner with customers to understand their critical data challenges—high-frequency trading, genomics processing, AI model training, or autonomous vehicle sensor fusion
- Translate technical requirements into elegant, scalable storage solutions that exceed expectations
- Act as trusted technical advisor throughout the sales cycle
- Solution Design
- Architect storage for AI/ML training, HPC simulations, data analytics, and GPU-accelerated workloads
- Design for reliability, resilience, security, and scale—balancing performance with data protection
- Create BOMs, system architectures, and technical proposals for complex RFPs
- Conduct live demos, POCs, and performance benchmarking
- Integrate with GPU clusters, Kubernetes, cloud platforms, and AI frameworks
- Innovation & Growth
- Stay current on AI infrastructure and storage technology trends
- Collaborate with Product and Engineering teams using field insights
- Mentor team members and contribute to technical thought leadership
- Shape product direction based on customer needs
What You Bring
- Technical Foundation (All Levels)
- Strong understanding of storage and data architectures: SAN, NAS, object storage, parallel file systems
- Knowledge of architectural patterns for reliability, resilience, security, and scale
- Understanding of storage and data protocols: S3, POSIX, NFS, SMB
- Familiarity with network protocols: TCP/IP, InfiniBand, RDMA
- Curiosity about massively parallel technologies (Lustre, GPFS, Exascaler)
- Aptitude for AI workloads and how storage enables AI innovation
- Ability to communicate technical concepts to both engineers and executives
- Entry Level (0-3 years)
- Bachelor's in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- Exposure to storage/systems through coursework, internships, or projects
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
- Customer‑facing communication skills
- Experienced (3+ years)
- 3-8+ years in pre‑sales, solutions architecture, or technical consulting
- Proven track record designing storage/infrastructure solutions
- Hands‑on experience with enterprise storage systems
- Experience with AI/ML infrastructure, HPC, or high-performance workloads (preferred)
- Success managing complex technical sales cycles
What Sets You Apart
- Genuine curiosity about AI and its impact across industries
- Ownership mindset—you solve problems until they're solved
- Ability to translate technical complexity into business value
- Thrive in fast-evolving technology environments
- Collaborative team player with integrity and empathy
DataDirect Networks, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender, sex stereotyping, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Senior Sales Engineer - Strategic AI employer: DataDirect Networks, Inc.
DataDirect Networks (DDN) is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and collaboration in the rapidly evolving field of AI and data storage. With a strong commitment to employee growth, DDN offers a dynamic work culture where team members are encouraged to take ownership of their projects and contribute to cutting-edge solutions that shape the future of technology. Located at the heart of a thriving tech ecosystem, employees benefit from access to industry-leading resources and opportunities to engage with diverse sectors, making it a truly rewarding place to advance your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Sales Engineer - Strategic AI
✨Leverage Your Network
In sales and business development, who you know can often be as important as what you know. Get involved with local networking events or industry meetups to connect with key players. Don't be shy—share your passion for the field and let folks know you're on the lookout for opportunities!
✨Show Your Skills Through Real-World Results
When targeting a full-time role like Senior Sales Engineer - Strategic AI at DataDirect Networks, Inc., presenting tangible results from your previous sales experience can set you apart. Bring along case studies or examples of how you've closed deals or expanded accounts, and don't forget to showcase your problem-solving prowess. It’s all about quantifying your success!
✨Engage with Sales Communities
Dive deep into online sales communities, like Sales Hacker or LinkedIn groups dedicated to sales professionals. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can boost your visibility and might just put you on the radar of hiring managers looking for fresh talent in business development.
✨Direct Applications Matter
While we all know the online application route, consider sending direct applications to companies you admire, including DataDirect Networks, Inc.. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Senior Sales Engineer - Strategic AI. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Sales Engineer - Strategic AI
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Those Sales Skills:In your CV and cover letter, highlight any previous sales or business development experience you have. Use numbers and examples to showcase your achievements – did you exceed sales targets or bring in new clients? Make those accomplishments shine!
Tailor Your Message for DataDirect Networks, Inc.:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for DataDirect Networks, Inc.. Show that you know the company’s mission and how your skills align with their goals in the sales landscape. This personalised touch will grab their attention!
Keep It Professional Yet Engaging:Sales is all about relationships, so while you want to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Engage the reader and demonstrate your enthusiastic approach to sales and business development!
Proof of Performance:Include any relevant certifications or training you’ve undertaken in sales or negotiation tactics. If you’ve attended workshops or courses, list these to showcase your commitment to professional development. This extra touch can set you apart from the competition!
How to prepare for a job interview at DataDirect Networks, Inc.
✨Know Your Sales Methodologies
Brush up on popular sales methodologies like SPIN Selling or Challenger Sales. Being able to discuss these techniques and how you've applied them will show DataDirect Networks, Inc. that you understand the role and can hit the ground running in the sales game.
✨Demonstrate Your Deal-Making Skills
Prepare to share stories from your past experiences where you closed deals, overcame objections, or started new client relationships. We want to show DataDirect Networks, Inc. that you’re not just about numbers but also about building lasting connections in business development.
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
In a full-time sales interview, don’t be surprised if they throw in a role-play exercise to test your pitching skills. Practising how you would pitch a product or handle an objection will help us shine in this simulation—think of it like a dress rehearsal for your future sales calls!
✨Align Your Goals with the Company’s Vision
Take a moment to reflect on how your career ambitions align with DataDirect Networks, Inc.’s objectives. When we articulate how our personal growth ties in with the company’s goals, it shows commitment and a genuine interest in contributing to their success.
