Founding Sales Development Representative (SDR) - AI Startup (Waste & Logistics)

About the Role

This is a founding SDR role at an early-stage, Y Combinator-backed AI startup building scheduling and route optimization software for waste fleets and industrial logistics. You will build the U.S. pipeline from scratch, working closely with the CEO to reach fleet owners and operations leads who respond to genuine industry insight, not automated spray-and-pray outreach.

What You'll Do

• Research and execute your own outbound outreach via cold calls, email, and LinkedIn to connect with fleet owners and operations decision-makers.

• Help shape and prioritize the U.S. target prospect list.

• Learn the waste and trucking industry deeply, including depots, roll-offs, and how route optimization drives real cost savings.

• Join every meeting you set, running discovery calls alongside the CEO.

• Represent the company at industry trade shows by prospecting in advance, booking meetings on the floor, and managing follow-up.

• Feed market insights back into messaging and qualification to help build the U.S. sales playbook.

What We're Looking For

• 1 to 2 years of B2B sales experience (SDR, BDR, AE, or similar), ideally selling software.

• Proven track record of outbound prospecting: cold calls, email, and LinkedIn outreach that booked meetings with decision-makers.

• Self-directed approach: you research your own prospects, write your own outreach, and own a number rather than run a sequence handed to you.

• Experience running discovery calls and qualifying B2B prospects.

• Comfortable with prospect research tools such as LinkedIn Sales Navigator or similar platforms.

• AI-native: you use AI tools in your own workflow or have sold AI or automation products.

• Prior exposure to waste management, logistics, transportation, or fleet operations is a plus, but consistent meeting bookings with tough buyers matters more.

• Experience prospecting at in-person industry events is a bonus.

• Based in Austin, TX, or open to relocating.