Careers FAQ

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about Smith & Associates...

Who is Smith?
Smith & Associates is the world leader in Independent Semiconductor Distribution and Services. Smith buys, sells, stocks, imports and exports semiconductors and other electronic components used in computers, computer peripherals, industrial machinery, medical equipment, automobiles, consumer electronics, aeronautic systems, communications devices, and other high-tech systems.

What career opportunities are available at Smith & Associates?
Career opportunities at Smith exist in both the Trading and Non-trading areas of the company. Careers in the Trading side of the company are primarily sales and purchasing positions that range from entry-level to management. Non-trading careers include operations, accounting, human resources, marketing and administrative positions at all levels. Click here for a list of current job openings.

What opportunities for advancement are there at Smith?
There are significant advancement opportunities for hard-working, dedicated employees at Smith & Associates. Opportunities are provided through internal promotion of employees, management of new trading groups, startup ventures and foreign offices. Smith is known within the industry for rewarding hard work and talent.

What employee benefits are available?
Smith & Associates offers all employees a comprehensive benefits package which includes:

• Insurance (medical, dental, vision, disability, life)
• 401(k) savings plan with company match
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Confidential Employee Assistance Program

What is the work environment like at Smith?
The atmosphere at Smith & Associates is fast paced, casual, upbeat and exciting. Employees enjoy a business casual dress code and comfortable, modern workspaces. Smith offices are abuzz with the energy of a busy trading floor and shipping operation. If you enjoy a dynamic, positive workplace, come and see what Smith has to offer.

How many people work at Smith & Associates?
As of January 2005, Smith employed 333 people worldwide.

Do all the Traders have experience buying and selling semiconductors and electronic products?
Some new employees have sold semiconductors and electronic components prior to working at Smith & Associates. However, Smith's Component Traders come from varied backgrounds. Some come to Smith directly from college. Others have years of sales experience in fields such as plastics, stocks, automobiles and industrial equipment. Some have liberal arts backgrounds while others have engineering or technical degrees. The bottom line for employees at Smith & Associates is motivation, ambition and aptitude.

I don't know much about electronics, does Smith have a training program?
Smith & Associates is a leader in this area, and has developed an extensive training program for new employees.

Each new Trader is immediately assigned to a rigorous curriculum that includes classroom training as well as hands-on trading that is closely monitored by the instructors. This training consists of an in-depth classroom program that provides information on products, sales techniques, market research, telemarketing and trading basics.

New employees in the operations department at Smith & Associates receive on-the-job training based on thoroughly documented quality control and testing procedures.

How much travel is involved in working at Smith & Associates?
Because most component sales and purchasing is conducted via telephone, fax and e-mail, most positions at Smith include very little travel. Occasional domestic and international travel may be required to visit trading partners.