NewOutside Sales Representative JobotOutside Sales RepresentativeChesterfield, MI$100,000–$150,000 / yearInformation collected and processed as part of your Jobot candidate profile, and any job applications, resumes, or other information you choose to submit is subject to Jobot's Privacy Policy, as well as the Jobot California Worker Privacy Notice and Jobot Notice Regarding Automated Employment Decision Tools which are available at jobot.com/legal. For decades, we have partnered with manufacturers, OEMs, and industrial facilities to solve complex application challenges through technical expertise, responsive service, and a broad portfolio of products and engineered solutions.
NewDeveloper/Builder Field Engineer JobotDeveloper/Builder Field EngineerDetroit, MI$70,000–$90,000 / yearInformation collected and processed as part of your Jobot candidate profile, and any job applications, resumes, or other information you choose to submit is subject to Jobot's Privacy Policy, as well as the Jobot California Worker Privacy Notice and Jobot Notice Regarding Automated Employment Decision Tools which are available at jobot.com/legal. Join a leading developer/builder as a Field Engineer, supporting on-site construction operations to deliver high-quality projects across Metro Detroit.
Proposal Application Engineer Comau LLCProposal Application EngineerSouthfield, MIYou will collaborate with a team of relevant specialists from Sales, Project Management, Engineering, Commissioning & Site Management and Estimating to create technical proposals which are efficient and competitive in today’s marketplace. The Proposal Application Engineer will develop manufacturing processes and solutions for new automation systems business.
Technology Engineer Comau LLCTechnology EngineerSouthfield, MIIn this role the ideal candidate will act as a network and think innovatively while executing the following responsibilities: Validation of innovative solutions, Identifies opportunities and recommends changes that improve productivity, reduce cost, eliminate waste and improve the overall business, Define the hardware & software configuration of the integrated machines (electrical and fluidic interfaces), Direct the integration and installation of Comau Systems on Customer site; cooperating with team to fix problems arisen on site, Programming and tuning the technology parameters in order to get the requested product quality, Act as technical interface to customer, Provide the customers trainings to provide the information for a correct maintenance, Maintain good relationships with customers through quick effective feedback, After Sales support. Works in full cooperation with Comau project Team (including team members from Engineering, Project and Site Management, Supply Chain, Manufacturing) and Customer project team representatives.
Senior Transmission Line Engineer LeidosSenior Transmission Line EngineerWalled Lake, MI$73,450–$132,775If you received an email purporting to be from Leidos that asks for payment-related information or any other personal information (e.g., about you or your previous employer), and you are concerned about its legitimacy, please make us aware immediately by emailing us at LeidosCareersFraud@leidos.com . Leidos seeks the best and the brightest, and in return, we invest in you, with an eye on your future, through career advancement, growth opportunities, and continuous improvement via mentoring, formal and informal project management training and assistance with obtaining pertinent certifications.
Project Engineer Mechanical - PWT Machining Comau LLCProject Engineer Mechanical - PWT MachiningSouthfield, MIThe Project Engineer is accountable for the design of Engineering projects with top-down oversight from inception (Proposal) to completion (Customer buy off). • Monitor and update the status of the engineering change activities for each phase, e.g., progress, forecasted completion date, open issues (if required), etc.
NewHVAC Technician 2 Sunbelt RentalsHVAC Technician 2WESTLAND, MI$21.38–$30.72 / hourPosition Objective: The HVAC Technician 2 demonstrates a level of professionalism through positive communication and appearance and provides an exemplary level of service to our customers. Sunbelt offers team members the following paid time off from work, subject to Sunbelt's policies (unless specified in a collective bargaining agreement): 12-25 vacation days depending on years of service.
District Growth Manager, Michigan Territory - Commercial Energy Business LeidosDistrict Growth Manager, Michigan Territory - Commercial Energy BusinessDetroit, MIRemote$107,900–$195,050 / yearWe are seeking a District Growth Manager who will be responsible for: Driving and supporting new and existing business opportunities specifically for our Power Delivery Solutions, Technology, and Digital Transformation Solutions divisions with investor-owned utilities, cooperative utilities, and relevant state-wide energy agencies. Leidos Engineering currently has an opportunity for a District Growth Manager to support various clients within our Power Delivery Solutions and Technology, and Digital Transformation Solutions divisions in the Midwest region.
Sales Manager - Industrial and Agricultural OEM Markets Michael Page USASales Manager - Industrial and Agricultural OEM MarketsDetroit, MI$100,000–$150,000 / yearFull timeThe division hiring for this position specialises in engineered fluid and air management components supplied to leading OEMs across industries including agriculture, outdoor power equipment, construction, marine, powersports, heavy truck, and other industrial sectors. The ideal candidate will bring a successful track record in OEM manufacturing sales and possess the ability to develop strong commercial relationships within technically focused environments.
NewTechnical Sales Engineer EMAG - USATechnical Sales EngineerFarmington Hills, MIThe Technical Sales Engineer supports the Technical Sales Manager and the broader Sales organization by providing technical expertise, developing customer-focused manufacturing solutions, and preparing accurate, competitive quotations. The Technical Sales Engineer participates in customer meetings, evaluates manufacturing processes, develops system layouts and concepts, and collaborates with suppliers and internal teams to deliver high-quality proposals.
Technical Inside Sales Engineer CaptiveAire SystemsTechnical Inside Sales EngineerFarmington Hills, MIPrimary Job Responsibilities: Provide integrated application engineering and design support for a wide range of ventilation applications with the goal of providing sustainable products and the latest technologies best designed to meet the customers' needs. Our main "role" is not to sell products but to provide solutions - kitchen ventilation solutions, commercial ventilation solutions, heating/air conditioning solutions.
Technical Sales Engineer (BOLAB Systems GmbH) AB Dynamics PLCTechnical Sales Engineer (BOLAB Systems GmbH)Wixom, MI$75,000–$95,000 / yearThe successful candidate will play a pivotal role in generating new business, building strong relationships with prospective clients, and creating awareness for BOLAB's solutions in signal and power electronics testing. As part of its international expansion, BOLAB Systems GmbH is seeking a Technical Sales Engineer to establish and grow its customer base in the United States.
NewTechnical Sales Engineer - North Central US Vishay Precision GroupTechnical Sales Engineer - North Central USDetroit, MI$110,000–$145,000 / yearWhether it is in the design and safety of new generations of cars, trucks and planes, or optimizing advanced medical equipment and consumer products, VPG’s deep engineering expertise is making the world safer, smarter, and productive. Working closely with engineers, distributors, and internal teams, you will serve as a trusted technical advisor while identifying new opportunities and expanding strategic customer relationships.
Technical Sales Engineer (BOLAB Systems GmbH) AB DynamicsTechnical Sales Engineer (BOLAB Systems GmbH)Wixom, Michigan$75,000–$95,000 / yearThe successful candidate will play a pivotal role in generating new business, building strong relationships with prospective clients, and creating awareness for BOLAB’s solutions in signal and power electronics testing. As part of its international expansion, BOLAB Systems GmbH is seeking a Technical Sales Engineer to establish and grow its customer base in the United States.
NewTechnical Sales Engineer Synerfac Technical StaffingTechnical Sales EngineerRochester, MIBy applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, Al-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Synerfac Technical Staffing and our contracted partners. Industry leading manufacturing company is seeking a Technical Sales Engineer to join their growing team!
Field Sales Engineer Illinois Tool WorksField Sales EngineerNovi, MI$100,000–$110,000 / yearITW Commercial Construction North America (CCNA), a division of ITW, includes trusted brands like Buildex (Teks, Sammys), Red Head (TruBolt, Tapcon), Ramset (Trakfast), and PNA, serving professional contractors since 1910. Primary Responsibilities: Develops professional relationships with key architectural & engineering firms in PNA targeted markets, utilizing engineering expertise to drive and influence product specification.
Sales Engineer Shively Diversified Management ServicesSales EngineerAuburn Hills, MI$80,000The Sales Engineer is responsible for developing and growing business within an assigned territory by identifying opportunities, engaging customers, coordinating demonstrations, converting inquiries into orders, and building long-term customer relationships. Combination of home office, Tech Centre, and customer-site environments with exposure to manufacturing hazards such as noise, electricity, chemicals, heavy equipment, and automated/manual machinery.
Inside Sales Engineer Eaton Corporation PlcInside Sales EngineerSouthfield, MI$84,750–$124,300 / yearEstablish and maintain the highest possible commercial relations with present and potential customers (internal and external) by effectively employing the highest level of skills about the art of salesmanship, application engineering, product knowledge, knowledge of customers business and organization and knowledge of Eaton product lines strategic plans for sales growth. Responsibilities include but are not limited to closing orders based upon expertise developed in selling skills and technical knowledge, selling abilities to position Eaton Electrical into preferred position in market and customer activity, providing technical knowledge regarding products/services and negotiating & pricing industrial and construction projects.
Technical Inside Sales Engineer CaptiveAireTechnical Inside Sales EngineerFarmington Hills, MichiganProvide integrated application engineering and design support for a wide range of ventilation applications with the goal of providing sustainable products and the latest technologies best designed to meet the customers’ needs. Our main "role" is not to sell products but to provide solutions - kitchen ventilation solutions, commercial ventilation solutions, heating/air conditioning solutions.
Sr. Sales Engineer - Michigan Enterprise Rubrik IncSr. Sales Engineer - Michigan EnterpriseMIRubriks sales organization is a united group of elite cross-functional sales professionals that help companies & government entities achieve resilience against cyberattacks malicious insiders and operational disruptions. We are seeking a self-starter who will exceed sales quotas by driving innovative technical programs pipeline generation alongside AEs customer demonstrations POCs and overseeing day-to-day account-level activities.
Principal Sales Engineer - Majors, Central Zscaler IncPrincipal Sales Engineer - Majors, CentralMIRemote$170,625–$243,750 / yearThe range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position across all US locations and could be higher or lower based on a multitude of factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Zscaler is committed to providing reasonable support (called accommodations or adjustments) in our recruiting processes for candidates who are differently abled, have long term conditions, mental health conditions or sincerely held religious beliefs, or who are neurodivergent or require pregnancy-related support.
NewTechnical Sales Engineer Vishay Precision Group, Inc.Technical Sales EngineerDetroit, MI$110,000–$145,000 / yearWorking closely with engineers, distributors, and internal teams, you will serve as a trusted technical advisor while identifying new opportunities and expanding strategic customer relationships. This customer-facing role combines technical expertise, business development, and account management to help OEM customers bring innovative products to market.
Lightweight Sales Engineer WalterLightweight Sales EngineerDetroit, MichiganMinimum 3 years of experience in any leading cutting tools, aerospace, automobile or machining industry in the field of engineering, sales, product management or similar in a multinational environment. The role demands high technical expertise, structured sales execution, and close collaboration with Business Developers (BD), Engineering, Operations, and Market Directors.
Concrete Accessories Field Sales Engineer Illinois Tool Works IncConcrete Accessories Field Sales EngineerMI$100,000–$110,000 / yearITW Commercial Construction North America (CCNA), a division of ITW, includes trusted brands like Buildex (Teks, Sammys), Red Head (TruBolt, Tapcon), Ramset (Trakfast), and PNA, serving professional contractors since 1910. Primary Responsibilities: Develops professional relationships with key architectural & engineering firms in PNA targeted markets, utilizing engineering expertise to drive and influence product specification.
NewField Sales Engineer - Michigan Metal Cutting ExpertsField Sales Engineer - MichiganDetroit, MichiganAn ideal candidate will have proven Technical Sales experience that drives business growth and/or strong hands-on machining experience applying cutting tools across a variety of workpiece materials, along with CNC programming experience (manual and CAM systems). Ingersoll Cutting Tool Company is one of the world’s leading suppliers of metal cutting tooling systems and a member of the IMC Group, a Berkshire Hathaway company, with over 130 subsidiaries in 60 countries worldwide.
Sales Engineer - Service Durr AGSales Engineer - ServiceSouthfield, MIYour Tasks: The Sales Engineer - Automotive Paintshop Service & Upgrades is responsible for supporting automotive OEM and Tier 1 customers with technical and commercial proposals for paintshop modifications, upgrades, retrofits, and refurbishments. This role leads specification reviews for service-related RFQs, defines technically sound upgrade solutions, and develops accurate cost calculations for associated work on existing paint shop systems.
Technical Sales Engineer Amphenol RFTechnical Sales EngineerDetroit, MIOur global team of experienced engineers develops innovative solutions utilizing the most advanced manufacturing technology available, and we specialize in creating custom solutions that meet customer-specific design requirements. We are currently seeking a Sales Project Engineer to direct the sales and account management activities and coordinate product market intelligence for assigned customer base within assigned regional or territory.
Field Sales Engineer - Michigan Ingersoll Machine Tools IncField Sales Engineer - MichiganDetroit, MIAn ideal candidate will have proven Technical Sales experience that drives business growth and/or strong hands-on machining experience applying cutting tools across a variety of workpiece materials, along with CNC programming experience (manual and CAM systems). Ingersoll Cutting Tool Company is one of the world's leading suppliers of metal cutting tooling systems and a member of the IMC Group, a Berkshire Hathaway company, with over 130 subsidiaries in 60 countries worldwide.
Sales Engineer MNPSales EngineerUtica, MIFull timeAdditional benefits include a health clinic (onsite in Utica) for employees and their families; optional employee wellness activities include managing and tracking diabetes, blood pressure, and weight control; onsite, personalized retirement counseling; employee referral bonuses and employment of friends and families; access to tickets for Jimmy John's Field; volunteer opportunities include Gleaners, Suite Dreams, Veterans Support activities, Blessings in a Backpack, food and clothing drives, and others; employee recognition includes anniversaries, birthdays, and special events; employee discounts on autos, cell phones, and others; employee social activities include Detroit Tigers opening day, Fat Tuesday, ice cream/popsicles, picnics, team meetings, team outings, one-on-one with the president, and many more. Qualifications-Education/ExperienceRequired:Bachelor's degree in mechanical or materials science engineering.2+ years of experience developing fastening solutions or solving critical application issues in the manufacturing environment.
Technical Sales Engineer (MPSNow) Monolithic Power Systems IncTechnical Sales Engineer (MPSNow)Detroit, MI$80,000–$120,000 / yearGood people and analytical skills to manage strong sales personnel (including manufacturer representatives and channel partners) to succeed and continuously grow design wins, revenue and customer relationships. Work closely with MPS product division marketing and engineering personnel to identify market trends and customer specific requirements, leading to MPS leadership position at strategic accounts.
Sales Engineer BLM GroupSales EngineerNovi, MichiganThey come to BLM GROUP USA for our expertise, deep network and nearly sixty years of experience in the industries we serve, and to partner with diverse teams of passionate, enterprising BLMers, dedicated to an inclusive approach to helping them grow and succeed at every stage of their business. • Collaborate with applications engineers and product managers to identify the best machine, software, and/or process solutions for complex manufacturing problems and propose them to customers with well-prepared presentations.
2026 Rotational Field Sales Engineer onsemi2026 Rotational Field Sales EngineerLivonia, MIWith a highly differentiated and innovative product portfolio, onsemi creates intelligent power and sensing technologies that solve the world’s most complex challenges and leads the way in creating a safer, cleaner, and smarter world. With a highly differentiated and innovative product portfolio, onsemi creates intelligent power and sensing technologies that solve the world’s most complex challenges and leads the way in creating a safer, cleaner, and smarter world.
Technical Sales Engineer Minth Group LtdTechnical Sales EngineerWixom, MIResponsibilities: Establish and nurture relationships: Build strong relationships with client procurement, engineering, and product teams, serving as the primary point of contact for technical sales inquiries and fostering a positive rapport. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining relationships with procurement and engineering teams, identifying opportunities for sales, and providing technical expertise to support the sales process.
Senior Sales Engineer Rithum LinkedIn BoardSenior Sales EngineerDetroit, Michigan$110,000–$150,000 / yearAt this level, you operate as a strategic advisor to both clients and internal teams, leading complex discovery engagements, building executive-level business cases, and driving deals across multi-stakeholder organizations. Competitive time off package with 20 days of Paid Time Off, 9 Company-Paid holidays, 2 paid floating holidays, 7 paid sick days, 2 Wellness days, and 1 Paid Volunteer Day; at 3 years of service PTO increases to 22 days, and at 5 years it increases to 25 days.
Sales Engineer / Account Manager - Automation JatcaSales Engineer / Account Manager - AutomationNovi, MichiganIn addition, this position will be responsible for focusing on the sales of services related to industrial automation and will act as the main point of contact with new and existing clients. We are a reputable controls engineering firm located in the Novi, MI area that specializes in full service industrial automation systems.
Detroit Metro 1 Outside Sac10 - Senior Sales Engineer SMC CORPORATIONDetroit Metro 1 Outside Sac10 - Senior Sales EngineerDetroit, MIPresents all of SMC's capabilities, services and products to current and prospective target customersServes as the primary contact for assigned customers and is responsible for customer growthRepresents the voice of the customer's needs and goals within the organizationLeads all aspects of the sales process, calling upon others to assist in solution developmentOwn and manage customer relationshipDevelop and execute detailed customer action plan and forecast as requiredMaintains/creates very strong and deep-rooted relationships with key decision makers within designated strategic target accounts; recognized and respected by customer's top management team within top rated accountsEffectively utilize SMC tools and resources to ensure organizational consistency and efficiencyComplete market reports as new and relevant information becomes availableManage SMC assets appropriately and be able to successfully calculate ROI using the RINGI processHave passed all training required by SMCBe competent in all SMC sales philosophy, strategies, and tacticsUse and accurately maintain CRM: sales calls, projects, opportunities, contacts, lead, success reports, to align customer data regionally, globally as necessarySuccessfully complete other duties as prescribed by the Branch Manager/Sales ManagerCollaborate with internal teams to develop tailored strategies aligned with client and company goalsMonitor project timelines, deliverables, and milestones to ensure timely and successful deployment of customer initiatives. Customer facing position; with the majority time spent at customer sitePotential travel with some extended stay away from homePhysically capable of lifting SMC products and displays up to 50 lbs.
Sales Engineer ZobilitySales EngineerTroy, MISeeking a Sales Engineer with experience in automotive interior lighting or illuminated components to support growth within OEM and Tier 1 accounts across the North American market. The ideal candidate is responsive, technically capable, customer-focused, and comfortable working closely with overseas teams in a fast-paced global environment.
NewSenior Specialist Sales Engineer, Data Security - Enterprise, Central Zscaler IncSenior Specialist Sales Engineer, Data Security - Enterprise, CentralMI$154,875–$221,250 / yearZscaler is committed to providing reasonable support (called accommodations or adjustments) in our recruiting processes for candidates who are differently abled, have long term conditions, mental health conditions or sincerely held religious beliefs, or who are neurodivergent or require pregnancy-related support. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position across all US locations and could be higher or lower based on a multitude of factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
Detroit Metro 1 Outside SAC10 - Senior Sales Engineer SMC CorpDetroit Metro 1 Outside SAC10 - Senior Sales EngineerDetroit, MIMaintains/creates very strong and deep-rooted relationships with key decision makers within designated strategic target accounts; recognized and respected by customer's top management team within top rated accounts. By fostering strong relationships and delivering value-added services, the Senior Sales Engineer contributes to the overall success and expansion of the companys industrial automation business.
Senior Systems Sales Engineer Forward Networks, Inc.Senior Systems Sales EngineerMI$240,000–$275,000 / yearBacked by world-class investors including Andreessen Horowitz, Goldman Sachs, MSD Partners, and Threshold Ventures, Forward Networks offers a people-centric, innovative culture where brilliant minds are shaping the future of network reliability, security, and AI-ready operations. D.s, we built the industry's first network digital twin - a mathematically precise model of the production network that gives IT teams unmatched visibility, verification, and agility across every major cloud and vendor environment.
Sales Engineer SCN-Search Consulting NetworkSales EngineerDetroit, MichiganRemoteThis role combines technical application expertise with a proactive sales approach, focused on expanding market share through end-user engagement while leveraging industrial distribution partners for execution. This position plays a critical role in generating demand at the end-user level and pulling that demand through the distribution channel.
Additive Sales Engineer - Great Lakes Phillips CorpAdditive Sales Engineer - Great LakesDetroit, MIWhile you will directly champion and close entry-level, educational, and post-processing opportunities, you will also play a pivotal role in our broader sales strategy by identifying when an account is ready for heavy industrial scaling-seamlessly handing off complex opportunities like LPBF, DED, and hybrid manufacturing to our Regional Account Managers. In this vital role, you will be the face of our entry-to-mid-level additive technologies, engaging education-focused accounts, nurturing early-stage adopters, and conducting consultative, application-fit discoveries to help customers confidently identify the right solutions.
NewSales Engineer, Additive Manufacturing - Great Lakes Phillips CorporationSales Engineer, Additive Manufacturing - Great LakesDetroit, MIWhile you will directly champion and close entry-level, educational, and post-processing opportunities, you will also play a pivotal role in our broader sales strategy by identifying when an account is ready for heavy industrial scaling—seamlessly handing off complex opportunities like LPBF, DED, and hybrid manufacturing to our Regional Account Managers. Armed with exceptional CRM discipline, a passion for continuous technical learning, and a collaborative spirit that bridges the gap between our applications team, OEM partners, and clients, you will champion Phillips' mission and build a career at the absolute cutting edge of advanced manufacturing.
Senior Sales Engineer RithumSenior Sales EngineerDetroit, MichiganAt this level, you operate as a strategic advisor to both clients and internal teams, leading complex discovery engagements, building executive-level business cases, and driving deals across multi-stakeholder organizations. Competitive time off package with 20 days of Paid Time Off, 9 Company-Paid holidays, 2 paid floating holidays, 7 paid sick days, 2 Wellness days, and 1 Paid Volunteer Day; at 3 years of service PTO increases to 22 days, and at 5 years it increases to 25 days.
Technical Sales Engineer (Mpsnow) Monolithic Power SystemsTechnical Sales Engineer (Mpsnow)Detroit, MI$80,000–$120,000 / yearGood people and analytical skills to manage strong sales personnel (including manufacturer representatives and channel partners) to succeed and continuously grow design wins, revenue and customer relationships. Work closely with MPS product division marketing and engineering personnel to identify market trends and customer specific requirements, leading to MPS leadership position at strategic accounts.
Sr. Account Sales Engineer Cognex CorpSr. Account Sales EngineerMIEssential Functions: Properly forecast and close vision solutions opportunities with End Users, Partners, and OEMs to reach the quota goal. Collaborate with counterparts from other territories on opportunities that are either integrated or installed in a different territory or where the decision makers do not reside in the Account Manager's territory.
Sales Engineer Winn-Marion CompaniesSales EngineerCanton, MichiganLike solving technical problems •Enjoy working with people •Are naturally curious •Prefer variety over routine •Want to own your success We Offer •Industry-leading technical training •Mentorship from experienced professionals •Competitive compensation and benefits •Long-term career growth •A collaborative, team-oriented culture If you're looking for a career that combines engineering, technology, and customer relationships, we'd like to meet you. What You'll Do As a Sales Engineer, you'll become a trusted technical advisor to customers in industries including: •Oil & Gas •Industrial Manufacturing •Municipal Water & Wastewater •Mining •Power & Utilities •Industrial Automation •Electrification & EV Charging You'll evaluate applications, recommend engineered solutions, present new technologies, and help customers improve their operations.
Google Cloud (AGBG) Sales Engineer Accenture PlcGoogle Cloud (AGBG) Sales EngineerDetroit, MIOur AGBG professionals deliver a full stack of integrated cloud capabilities across data, edge, integrated infrastructure and applications, deep ecosystem skills, culture of change along with a deep industry expertise to shape, move, build and operate our clients' businesses in the cloud. You will partner with mid-market companies to design and implement transformative solutions on the Google Cloud platform, ensuring that technology decisions are directly tied to measurable value and long-term success.
Cybersecurity Mid Market Sales Engineer Accenture PlcCybersecurity Mid Market Sales EngineerDetroit, MIOur engineers, architects, and security specialists work at global scale-building and running modern cloud‑native platforms, zero‑trust architectures, and advanced detection and response systems that protect some of the world's most complex organizations. You will partner with mid-market companies to shape solutions leveraging Accenture's Midmarket offerings to address their most critical security risks, Your role is to bridge the gap between business needs and technical possibilities.
SALES ENGINEER - Automotive Manufacturing PSGSALES ENGINEER - Automotive ManufacturingNovi, MichiganThis is a hands-on opportunity to lead programs from concept through mass production, working closely with cross-functional teams both domestically and internationally. This role is perfect for someone with experience in automotive parts sales and project management, especially with Japanese automotive background.