New Accounts Representative jobs near me

Long Term Care and Medicaid Customer Service M-F 9am - 5pm 10 weeks onsite training then 100% remote This is a responsible non-exempt position on the staff where exercising good judgment in evaluating situations and making decisionsis very important. Adept at interpreting and explaining complex information about Long Term Care (LTC), this professional position shall perform Long Term Care Medicaid service-related activities which include intake, screening, potentially eligible individuals for enrollment and/ortriage duties which inform eligible or potentially eligible individuals, their families and/or educating community partnersabout Medicaid coveredservices and how to obtain them.

Job Title: Customer Service Representative (HVAC / Plumbing / Electrical Services) Industry: HVAC / Plumbing / Electrical Services Pay: $23-$28/hour depending on experience About Our Client: Addison Group is proud to partner with a trusted and well-established company in the residential services industry. Our client is known for delivering high-quality HVAC, plumbing, and electrical solutions across the Northern Virginia area. They are seeking two reliable, communicative, and industry-savvy Customer Service Representatives to join their fast-paced office. Job Description: This is a full-time, contract-to-hire opportunity for two Customer Service Representatives to support daily operations in a busy, customer-focused environment. The ideal candidates will come from a similar trade services background and are ready to contribute to a collaborative team, providing excellent service and managing inbound calls, scheduling, and client communication. Key Responsibilities: Serve as the first point of contact for customers via phone and email Schedule and dispatch service appointments with accuracy and efficiency Maintain organized and up-to-date customer information using CRM software Collaborate with field technicians to ensure timely and smooth service delivery Address customer inquiries, service concerns, and scheduling issues promptly Support general administrative functions as needed in a fast-moving environment Qualifications: 2-5+ years of customer service experience, ideally within HVAC, plumbing, or electrical trades Experience with ServiceTitan software (or similar CRM platform) strongly preferred Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential Demonstrated punctuality and ability to learn industry terminology quickly No formal education requirement Personal transportation not required Additional Details: Type: Contract-to-Hire (6 months before conversion opportunity) Start Date: ASAP Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM-4:00 PM or 8:00 AM-4:30 PM Occasional Saturday shift (approx. once every 2 months, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM) Worksite: 100% On-Site in Alexandria, VA Free parking available Interview Process: Single in-person panel interview with hiring team Team Size: ~9 customer service team members Overtime: Occasional, with supervisor approval Background Check: Not required Perks: Strong potential for permanent hire Collaborative team culture On-site parking included Opportunity to gain industry experience with a respected service provider Stability and growth potential with a long-standing company

Why You Want to Work Here: Join a fast-paced and energetic team that values hard work, collaboration, and having fun while doing it. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys helping others, thrives in a dynamic environment, and wants to gain hands-on experience in a professional office setting. You'll be part of a close-knit team that supports growth, celebrates wins, and works together to deliver excellent service to customers. Responsibilities: Respond to customer inquiries via phone, email, and chat regarding orders, returns, product information, and general support. Provide friendly, solutions-focused assistance to ensure customer satisfaction. Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to orders and returns using internal systems. Collaborate with warehouse, logistics, and sales teams to address customer concerns efficiently. Accurately document customer interactions in CRM or ticketing systems. Maintain a strong understanding of company products, policies, and procedures. Requirements: Ability to stay calm and organized in a fast-moving, high-volume environment. Strong multitasking, problem-solving, and time management skills. Clear and professional communication skills-both written and verbal. Self-starter who is comfortable learning new systems and working independently or as part of a team. Positive attitude with a willingness to take initiative and help wherever needed. Preferred Qualifications: 1-2+ years of experience in customer service, retail, or a client-facing support role. Familiarity with CRM or help desk tools (e.g., Zendesk, Salesforce, HubSpot). Background in e-commerce, retail operations, or order fulfillment support.

Vector Marketing is interviewing for entry level sales positions to be filled immediately. Great starting base pay. Flexible schedules - work around your full-time job, internship, family obligations, and other commitments. No experience is needed; all training is provided. Reps are paid weekly - $30. 00 base-appt (not based on sales or results) or commissions based on performance. There is an opportunity to make more, but there is still a fallback for the sales rep to make an income even if they have an off week. Basic responsibilities include meeting with customers one on one, selling our American made CUTCO products, and writing up any orders. Most of our sales representatives start with no experience, just need to be comfortable working with people. Benefits: Excellent training - Our company that has been around for over 40 years has been training people to do well before they get started, even if they don't have any work experience. Flexible work - We help our reps create a schedule that works best for them. Some work as much as possible while others choose to be super part time around other commitments such as classes, full time jobs, internships, vacations, or family commitments. Resume experience - Our reps build up communication and sales skills that look great on any resume. Opportunity for Advancement - Reps can move into career sales positions, even becoming a manger even if they only work part time. Choice of location - Sales reps work from home and locally after training. Meetings and training are usually held in the office. Requirements: Enjoys working with people At least 18 or 17 and a 2025 high school graduate Conditions apply Willing to learn and apply new skills Able to interview within the next 7 to 10 days Who can do well here: This entry level sales position is a good fit for people who are looking to make some extra income. Great for a someone who is looking for a flexible schedule. It doesn't matter if you have a Bachelor's Degree, an Associate's Degree, or no degree at all - we can train you to do well with us. People who do well with us have experience in just about every field you can imagine - cashier, administrative assistant, server, customer service, worked fast food restaurant, worked retail, was a barista, worked in a warehouse, or a receptionist at a doctor's office. Even if you don't have any traditional work experience, we can train you to do well with us. If you think you would be a good fit for our company fill out a quick application (usually takes about a minute or two) and someone will follow up with you about your interview request. We encourage applicants of all ages and experience, as we do not discriminate on the basis of an applicant's age.

A Sales Representative is responsible for sales, sales support and operations to ensure continuity in product offering and company goals of Cavalier products throughout the assigned territory. Principle Responsibilities: Develop new business and maintain effective customer relations and promote the good will of the company. Prepares all quote documentation with accurate pricing for all current or prospective customers. Ensure that all products are rotated and code policy is followed. Successful sale, distribution and placement of all Cavalier products. Assist in displaying merchandise during peak seasonal roll out to chains. Assist in all resets of chain stores. Assist in working, setting up and tearing down of all special events and festivals. Focus on selling products and/or upgrading number of product lines in retail accounts. Identify accounts that are not currently customers and develop a plan to establish business with such accounts. Conduct beer tastings and beer dinners and other promotions in accounts on a regular basis or when required. Assist in covering routes for Sales Representatives on vacation. Maintain up-to-date awareness of company activities and industry trends. Maintain check-in sheets and all invoices. Maintain adherence to all Company policies and procedures. Effective accounts receivable collections within corporate credit policy. Handle customer inquiries regarding credit, delivery, product information and other inquiries as they arise. Execute monthly goals as related to business activities. Maintain a regular schedule of weekly appointments with accounts in assigned area. Attend monthly District Sales Manager meetings. Other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Basic understanding of Cavalier Distributing products. Ability to communicate effectively. Ability to speak and write the English language at least at the high school level is required. Thorough knowledge of traffic laws and defensive driving. Ability to add and subtract, using whole numbers and decimals. Excellent customer relation skills. Ability to work independently. Ability to process information/merchandise. Ability to communicate with supervisor, Company Sales Representatives, current and prospective customers on a professional level. Ability to read, count and write to accurately complete all documentation. Must have a valid unexpired driver's license with a clean DMV record. Must have reliable transportation. Ability to read maps/directions and operate GPS units. Ability to work varied hours/days as business dictates including evenings and/or weekends for special events. Physical Requirements: (Lifting-Exactly how much, bending, climbing, driving equipment, etc.). While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit. The employee is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and talk or hear. Ability to operate and use all equipment necessary to fill orders. Ability to handle product generally weighing 0 - 165 pounds. Ability to bend and stoop. Ability to communicate with supervisor, current and prospective customers on a professional level. Ability to read, count and write to accurately complete all documentation. Ability to drive a vehicle. PI0ce5cae0a09a-26***********8

We’re looking for Customer Support Product Testers across the US to work from home and help top brands improve their products before they hit the market.

Architectural & Design Sales Representative - Washington, DC (Remote) Job Type: Full-time Compensation: $80K+ annually (uncapped commission structure) (Base + Commission + Performance Bonuses) Tile Club is one of the fastest-growing online tile companies in the U.S., and we're looking for an experienced, driven, well-connected, and design-savvy sales professional to join our expanding team in Washington, DC. Tile Club, headquartered in California, is a leading nationwide e-commerce supplier of premium tile, natural stone, and glass products. Our curated collection showcases unique, globally sourced materials known for their beauty, craftsmanship, and design versatility. We are celebrated for our unique designs, innovation, outstanding quality, and commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience. As a fast-growing online retail brand, Tile Club combines cutting-edge web tools with personalized support tailored to the needs of the architecture and design community. We proudly serve clients in all 50 U.S. states and overseas, bringing world-class tile solutions to projects of every scale. This is your opportunity to join a high-energy, design-forward team with room to grow. What You'll Do As our Architectural & Design Sales Representative, you'll be responsible for building and nurturing relationships with key influencers in the A&D community-interior designers, architects, specifiers, builders, and developers-to drive project specifications and product adoption throughout the DMV area. Key Responsibilities: Develop strong, trust-based relationships with architects, designers, builders, contractors, and developers. Generate sales growth through strategic outreach, in-person meetings, and virtual presentations. Influence early-stage project specifications with Tile Club's unique product offerings. Provide expert consultation on tile, stone, and surface products to meet project requirements. Maintain and grow relationships with an existing book of business while actively pursuing new accounts. Conduct in-office presentations and CEU events for A&D firms. Manage and maintain product sample libraries at design and architecture firms. Monitor competitive activity and market trends to support strategic selling. Provide daily reports, maintain project files, and participate in weekly team meetings. Travel locally to meet with clients 4-5 days/week; Fridays typically reserved for planning/admin. What We're Looking For Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Design, Marketing, Business, or a related field; or equivalent experience. 5+ years of sales experience in the A&D or Hospitality community, ideally within the tile, stone, or flooring industry. Established network of architects and designers within the DMV market. Strong technical understanding of hard surface materials and their applications. Comfortable leading presentations, product knowledge sessions, and trade shows. Active industry memberships (IIDA, ASID, AIA, CSI) are a plus. Skills & Competencies: Energetic self-starter with a passion for design and architecture. Strong communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills. Ability to self-source leads through a combination of cold calling and networking Detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple ongoing projects. Proficiency in Google Workspace (Gmail, Google Drive, Google Docs, etc.). Proficiency in and ability to learn new CRM systems. Strong work ethic with a drive to succeed Proven outside or field sales experience with a track record of hitting or exceeding sales goals. Ability to lift and transport tile samples (up to 40 lbs). Valid driver's license and ability to travel What We Offer Compensation & Benefits: Competitive base salary + uncapped commission + performance bonuses Health, dental, vision, and disability insurance Paid time off (vacation, sick leave) Expenses Reimbursement (gas, cell phone, travel, etc) Employee discounts on products Opportunities for professional development and industry networking Work Schedule: Full-time | Monday-Friday 8-hour shifts Primarily on the road with occasional remote/office work Apply If You Are: A proven sales professional in the A&D or building materials industry Passionate about design, detail, and relationship-based selling Ready to work with a fast-paced, innovative team and leave your mark on exciting projects Join Tile Club and become part of a brand that's not only changing the way tile is sold but also how it's imagined. To apply, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting your experience in architectural sales and your interest in Tile Club.

Product Testers are wanted to work from home nationwide in the US to fulfill upcoming contracts with national and international companies. We guarantee 15-25 hours per week with an hourly pay of between $25 / hr. and $45 / hr., depending on the In-Home Usage Test project. No experience required. There is no payment required in order to apply or to work as an In-Home Usage Tester. You don't have to buy products or pay for shipping, everything is paid by our company. In-Home Usage Testers are considered independent contractors, we pay weekly every Wednesday by direct deposit or by cheque. We are a consulting firm that specializes in product testing and product development work. We design and conduct In-Home Usage Testing (IHUT) locally and nationally to provide actual user feedback in real-time to companies and market research firms to evaluate products to ensure proper product certification and greater market access. It is important to note that during your application process, reputable market research companies will determine your demographics and consumer profile to establish what products would be suitable for you to test. Market research companies that partner with us will use questionnaires to identify and target certain types of consumers, to ensure that the right participants are engaged and to achieve the representative sample needed. Participation in these product testing and consumer panels is always free, secure and private. In-Home Usage Testing is a quick, easy and fun way to make extra cash by telling big brands what you think about their upcoming products and services in the American market. Main Duties : Properly document In-Home Usage Tests as instructed in the In-Home Usage Test Daily Schedule (screenshots, audio recordings, videos, product journal entries, etc.) Take care of the product being tested and use it responsibly Read and strictly follow the In-Home Usage Test Daily Schedule provided with each product testing project (may include tasks such as unpacking, reading instructions, journal entries, online or mobile feedback, usage of product for a certain amount of time, writing reviews, taking pictures, etc.) Some In-Home Usage Tests projects may require participants to use MFour’s Mobile In-Home Use Test Technology (cutting-edge smartphone technology to capture Point-of-Emotion® insights to gain unparalleled depth of responses) There are times when the product being tested may be discussed in a private chat room that is opened by a market research firm Write reviews as requested in the In-Home Usage Test Daily Schedule for each project Requirements : Ability to follow specific instructions Excellent attention to detail and curious spirit Be able to work 15-25 hours per week and commit to a certain routine Have access to a computer and a reliable internet connection Have access to a digital camera or cell phone that takes pictures -Be honest and reliable -Good communication skills are an asset -18 years or older A paid Product Tester position is perfect for those looking for an entry-level opportunity, flexible or seasonal work, temporary work or part-time work. The hours are completely flexible and no previous experience is necessary. Benefits : Very competitive pay rate Weekly pay Work around your own schedule Learn about an exciting industry Telecommute (you can work from home, work or school) Most of the time you can keep the product you tested

Crafting Brighter Futures for Families At the forefront of specialized financial services, Serur Organization helps families safeguard their assets and promises a profound purpose: ensuring a brighter future for every client. As a Benefits Representative, you play a pivotal role in helping families protect their assets and secure their futures. You'll be the face of Serur Organization, embodying our values and commitment. Primary Responsibilities: Engage with clients to understand their financial goals and concerns. Present tailored solutions to safeguard their assets effectively. Maintain a pulse on the industry, ensuring you offer the best and most updated advice. Foster relationships and ensure our clients always have someone they can turn to. Why Serur Organization? Remote Work: Enjoy the flexibility of a full-time remote role. Unlimited Earning Potential: Your dedication determines your earnings. Company Culture: At Serur Organization, we're relaxed, high-energy, and treat every member like family. Grow with Us: Dive into continuous learning and development opportunities. Application Process: Submit Your Application: A hiring manager will review your application & resume and get back to you within 24 hours. Schedule Company Overview: Select applicants will be contacted to schedule a position overview, detailing everything you need to know about the job details and your responsibilities. This 20-30 minute session is typically* done virtually for your convenience. Interact with Us: During the overview, you'll have the chance to chat with our team members and ask any questions. Following the overview you'll be prompted to complete a brief assessment to gauge your understanding and compatibility with the position.

We’re looking for Customer Support Product Testers across the US to work from home and help top brands improve their products before they hit the market.

We are seeking a dedicated and customer-focused individual to join our team as a Customer Service Representative. This role is fully in-office. Responsibilities: Provide exceptional customer service by addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly and professionally. Maintain accurate records of customer interactions and transactions. Assist customers with product and service information. Handle customer complaints, provide appropriate solutions, and follow up to ensure resolution. Collaborate with team members to improve customer service processes. Requirements: 1+ year of customer service experience. High school diploma or equivalent. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Bilingual preferred but not required. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Must pass a background check and drug test. Benefits: Competitive hourly pay. Opportunity for contract to hire. Hybrid work schedule after training period. If you are passionate about providing excellent customer service and meet the qualifications listed above, we encourage you to apply.

Part time & Full-time traveler friendly! Work from home supplemental income or career change in the insurance, investments, & mortgage industry. This sales opportunity can be fully remote. Opportunity for the stay-at-home career seeker who is desiring to gain experience in entrepreneurship & independent contractor work. More about the role: No prior experience in financial services is required. All required pre-licensing courses and required state licenses are covered by partnered companies. (Fingerprints required in some states). This is an opportunity to be trained to be an insurance sales agent and or a field trainer of sales agents. Options to be a part time representative, a full time self employed agent, a recruiter/trainer of agents, or a builder of brokerages. No sales quotas enforced. Weekly extensive training provided & recommended via Zoom. The desired candidate is required to learn: - sales strategies - networking - recruiting - Online prospecting - overcoming objections - presentations - Field training - Developing/replicating systems - Use of Zoom Cloud Meetings - Client Relationships The desired candidate can obtain the following skills: • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Strong customer service skills • Thrive in a flexible environment • Entrepreneurial Mindset • Strong leadership and decision-making skills • Ability to develop, manage and drive growth • Goal Oriented Requirements: * Must be 18+ (This is a FEDERAL REQUIREMENT) * Must pass a criminal background check (No Felonies) * Must have access to reliable wifi * Must have access to Zoom Cloud Meetings * Any other material/equipment must be provided by agent as this is an independent contractor position, however tax write off advantages are available * Self Disciplined * Trustworthy Company provided: • - Paid training program • - State & Federal Licenses • - Part or Full time Flex options • - Commissions and Bonus Based Compensation Residual income, stock opportunities, & tax advantages available. 1099 Independent Sales Contractor 100% commission paid position.

We are looking for a talented and success motivated individual ready to become educated in the high-income financial services industry. Do you have interest in learning how money works, strategies familiar to the wealthy, and actually building an asset with your time? As a Financial Planning Consultant, you will have the fulfilling opportunity to spread financial literacy to all walks of life. We strive to take an educational approach while helping our clients plan for and reach their short, mid, and long-term financial goals. This includes retirement planning, college planning, investments, insurances, etc. Our mission is to help individuals, families, and business owners feel more confident heading into their financial futures, by equipping them with modern-day financial education. -REMOTE Opportunity - Work from Home or Anywhere with Wi-Fi - FLEXIBLE Hours - you set your own schedule / what you put in is what you will get out - NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED - full training and mentorship provided (*Preferred Experience/Qualities include customer service, management, retail, restaurant, etc.) THE IDEAL CANDIDATE: Values Freedom and Flexibility Excels at Working Independently and in a Team Environment Ambitious and Motivated Entrepreneurial-Minded Self-Starter and Good at Follow-Through Has a personal interest in Personal Finance (even with little to no experience) Sports/Club/Team Background, Sales, and Teaching Experience is always a plus Our branch office is based in Dallas, TX and we are a non-captive broker dealer, meaning we're partnered with some of the top companies in our industry, including Nationwide, Prudential, Transamerica, Fidelity, and more, so those are the products and services that we market and represent. Financial professionals were recently ranked as the #1 growing career by the U.S. Department of Labor. At a time with our economy in distress, and many people losing their retirements, our services are even more necessary and essential to providing families with a solution now more than ever. Our expanding firm stands out from the rest because of the various services and educational approach we provide to our clients. So they are able to make better financial decisions for their family. ARE YOU: Open and have a desire to become licensed to help individuals, families, and businesses with practical and tactical, resilient strategies? Ethical, intentional, accountable, confident and driven to invest in your future? Teachable and open to learning business and financial principles that expand your own personal and professional Financial IQ? Accountable with high level of integrity (critical in this regulated and customer-based industry) BASE QUALIFICATIONS: Minimum 18 years of age Legal U.S. Resident, Citizen or Work Permit with SSN Able to pass a Background Screening Able to complete licensing requirements within 60 days MULTIPLE METHODS OF COMPENSATION in Financial Services unlike traditional 9-5 jobs: Commission income with no ceiling (one client may be $2,500 in compensation and another may be $20,000) Residual income (paid from work done last year, every year) Passive income (income from clientele group) Bonuses, paid world travel, and more ENVIRONMENT: The environment we strive to create is a positive and supportive team culture. We are all very passionate about learning how to help individuals, families, and businesses meet their short to long-term financial goals. Outside of teaching our consultant the necessary financial concepts, we also assist in developing leadership, business skills, marketing, social media/branding, communicative skills, and so much more! Training with flexible work hours that can easily be woven into your existing schedule whether that is a full time or part time schedule! Production based, commission-only position (1099). No prior certification, experience, or education necessary!

We are seeking a Virtual Customer Service Representative to join our team! You will be responsible for helping customers by providing product and service information and resolving technical issues. Qualifications: · Previous experience in customer service, sales, or other related fields · Ability to build rapport with clients · Ability to prioritize and multitask · Positive and professional demeanor · Excellent written and verbal communication skills Work from home! Awesome CEO, opportunity for advancement and great income earning potential!

Customer Connection Representative - Entry Level Do you enjoy being out and about, speaking, and connecting with others? This entry-level Customer Connection Representative position allows you to do just that. If you enjoy being in an office for 8 hours straight with little to no interaction then this position is not for you. However, if you enjoy change, interaction with a diverse group of people, challenges, and rewards then we want you to apply now! Why APPLY NOW? - Full and paid training - Learn more about the newest technology - Experience in sales and marketing, client relations, and business - Travel opportunities - Our fun and vibrant corporate culture To apply for this Entry-Level Customer Connection Representative position please demonstrate: Great personality and people skills 2-year degree or equivalent customer service & sales experience Sharp, professional demeanor Excellent communication and follow-through Be a self-starter with problem-solving abilities Be a career-oriented individual searching for rapid growth Customer service or sales experience preferred, but not required

Discover your next step at Globe Life American Income Division! As we expand into new territories, we are looking for dedicated professionals wanting to elevate their career. In this role, you'll tap into unlimited earning potential and accelerate your growth with the help of our elite support team. It's time to step up, redefine your limits, and drive your own success! What You'll Do · Become a Professional: Get hands-on training for our products and services, empowering you to sell more effectively and confidently. · Foster Connections: Build strong client relationships while promoting a positive, collaborative team environment. · Lead the Charge: Take the initiative on sales strategy and spearhead initiatives that drive success!

Set your own hours! Full or part-time positions available. Apply today, start tomorrow. We are looking for people nationwide interested in working from home that are dependable Earn money working from home using customer service and data entry skills you already have. We are seeking entry level applicants to work remotely from home in this new GIG economy. For more information, please read our job posting, then visit our web site to apply online. Due to the large number of candidates we process each day, we are only accepting online submissions. This is a unique opportunity for anyone looking to start working from home, or from anywhere, with their own side gig or side hustle. Work from home companies are on-boarding new applicants daily, as it has been difficult to keep up with expansions in this new work from home / gig economy. If you are willing to do tasks such as data entry from home, customer service from home, call center from home, market research, and/or limited phone sales, this may be perfect for you. Hours are Part-time and Full-time, allowing you to take advantage of work from home jobs and smaller gigs, while working around your existing schedule. You'll be working remotely from your home, home office, car, or literally from any location you choose.

Remote Customer Service Representative | Flexible Hours | Growth Opportunity Job Type: Full-Time / Part-Time What We're Looking For ✅ Previous experience in customer service or sales (a plus but not required) ✅ Excellent communication skills and ability to build rapport ✅ Problem-solving mindset with attention to detail ✅ Ability to adapt to changes in a dynamic environment ✅ Self-motivated and comfortable working remotely ✅ Willingness to learn and develop new skills Why Join Us? 100% Remote - Work from home! Unlimited career growth opportunities Flexible schedule - Full-time or part-time available Hands-on training and professional development Access to industry-leading resources and technology Health insurance reimbursement & life insurance How to Apply Click "Apply to this job" to submit your application today!

Liberty National Sales Representative Join Globe Life Liberty National Division and take charge of your career with comprehensive training and leadership. In this commission-based role, you'll help families secure their financial future. No college degree is required to apply. Become a state-licensed professional in as little as 10 days. Apply now and let us schedule an interview to start your journey! What You Can Bring • Experience in sales, customer service, or related field. This is NOT required as we offer extensive training • Exceptional verbal and communication skills • Basic computer proficiency. CRM software experience is a plus • A high school diploma or equivalent is required; additional education is a bonus