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Auto Auctions Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carolina Auto Auction

Recon Lot Porter

Williamston, SC

$11.25 - $12.75/hr

Carolina Auto Auction is a family owned and operated business in Williamston, SC. We have been serving the automobile dealers and finance companies since 1969 and in SC since 1989. We believe in ...

Auto Auction Holdings

Auction Driver

Concord, NC · On-site

Join Our Awesome Team as an Auto Auction Driver - Speedway Auto Auction Who We Are (And Why You'll Love It Here!) Welcome to Speedway Auto Auction, where precision meets high-energy excitement! We're ...

Carolina Auto Auction

Auction Driver

Williamston, SC · On-site

Carolina Auto Auction is a family owned and operated business in Williamston, SC. We have been serving the automobile dealers and finance companies since 1969 and in SC since 1989. We believe in ...

Auto Auction Holdings

Auto Mechanic

Longwood, FL · On-site

Join Our Awesome Team as an Auto Mechanic! - Orlando Longwood Auto Auction Who We Are (And Why You'll Love It Here!) Welcome to Orlando Longwood Auto Auction - where cars meet community in beautiful ...

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How much do auto auctions jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto auctions in the United States is $22.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a job at an auction?

To get a job at an auto auction, candidates should have a good understanding of vehicle values, strong organizational skills, and sometimes a valid driver's license. Entry-level positions may require completing a background check and demonstrating reliability, while more specialized roles might need industry knowledge or certifications. Applying directly through auction company websites or staffing agencies can also improve chances of employment.

What is the most paid for a car at auction?

The highest price paid for a car at auction was $70 million for a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO. Auto auction professionals and collectors often focus on rare, historic, or limited-edition vehicles, which can command record-breaking prices at high-profile sales.

How do you get into auto auctions?

To work in auto auctions, individuals typically need to register as a dealer or obtain a license, which may require completing a dealer education course and passing a background check. Experience with vehicle inspection, auction processes, or sales can be beneficial, and some positions may require knowledge of auction software or tools. Entry often involves working for a dealership or auction house and understanding the bidding and vehicle evaluation procedures.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in auto auctions and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in auto auctions often encounter challenges such as managing high vehicle volumes, ensuring accurate vehicle condition reports, and maintaining fast-paced communication with buyers and sellers. Addressing these challenges involves developing strong organizational skills, staying up to date with auction technology, and building effective relationships with team members and clients. Being adaptable and detail-oriented is crucial, as is continuous learning about current market trends and vehicle regulations to provide the best service and maintain smooth auction operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an Auto Auction Specialist role, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Auto Auction Specialist, you need a strong understanding of automotive valuation, negotiation, and sales principles, often supported by experience in automotive sales or dealership environments. Familiarity with inventory management systems, auction software, and vehicle history databases such as CARFAX is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and customer service skills help build trust with buyers and sellers. These abilities ensure efficient auction operations, maximize sales outcomes, and foster long-term client relationships.

What is the highest paid automotive job?

In the automotive industry, high-paying roles include automotive service managers, dealership general managers, and automotive engineers. These positions often require extensive experience, technical knowledge, and sometimes advanced certifications, with salaries reaching six figures in many cases.

What is the difference between Auto Auctions vs Auto Appraisers?

AspectAuto AuctionsAuto Appraisers
Required CredentialsDealer licenses, auction certificationsAppraisal certifications, licenses
Work EnvironmentPhysical auction lots, online platformsOff-site, office, or on-site evaluations
Employer & Industry UsageDealerships, auction houses, online platformsInsurance companies, dealerships, independent firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentBuying/selling vehicles at auctionAssessing vehicle value for sale or insurance

Auto auctions primarily focus on facilitating the buying and selling of vehicles through physical or online auction platforms, often involving dealer licenses. Auto appraisers evaluate vehicle condition and determine value, usually for insurance, resale, or lending purposes. While both roles involve vehicles, auto auctions are centered on transaction facilitation, whereas auto appraisers focus on valuation. Understanding these differences helps job seekers and industry professionals identify the right career path or service needed.

What are auto auctions?

Auto auctions are organized events where vehicles are sold to the highest bidder, usually through a bidding process. These auctions can be open to the public or limited to licensed dealers, and they often feature a wide range of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs. Auto auctions can take place in physical locations or online, offering opportunities to purchase vehicles at potentially lower prices than traditional dealerships. Buyers should carefully inspect vehicles and understand the auction terms before participating.
More about Auto Auctions jobs
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What states have the most Auto Auctions jobs? States with the most job openings for Auto Auctions jobs include:
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Auto Auctions jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Auctions job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,640 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
Used Car Auction Buyer

Used Car Auction Buyer

McDaniels Auto Group

Columbia, SC • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Used Car Auction Buyer
 
McDaniels Auto Group
501 W Killian, Columbia, SC
 
Full Time
APPLY NOW

We are seeking an Automotive Buyer to support our pre-owned inventory acquisition efforts based out of Columbia, SC. This role is responsible for sourcing and purchasing quality used vehicles through wholesale channels, including auto auctions and dealer networks, in order to maintain a competitive and market-ready inventory mix.

This position will work closely with dealership leadership to identify inventory needs, evaluate vehicle opportunities, and secure vehicles that align with market demand and company purchasing objectives. This position is based in Columbia, SC and requires approximately 50% travel within the Southeastern United States to support inventory acquisition through auto auctions and other wholesale channels.  This may include driving, flying, and some overnight travel.

Compensation for this position includes a base salary plus commission tied to the retail profitability of vehicles purchased at auction once they are reconditioned and sold.

The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of vehicle valuation, wholesale pricing trends, and auction procedures, along with the ability to make informed purchasing decisions in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Source and acquire pre-owned vehicles through wholesale channels

  • Attend regional auto auctions and industry events as needed

  • Evaluate vehicles for condition, marketability, and resale potential

  • Analyze market trends and wholesale values to support purchasing decisions

  • Place competitive bids and negotiate purchase terms

  • Coordinate vehicle transportation and acquisition logistics

  • Maintain relationships with auction representatives and wholesale partners

  • Work collaboratively with dealership leadership to forecast inventory needs

  • Ensure purchased vehicles meet internal quality and pricing standards

  • Track acquisition performance and maintain accurate purchase records

  • Assist in identifying emerging inventory opportunities within the regional market

Qualifications:

  • Minimum 3-5 years in an auction- based automotive dealership or automotive wholesale experience required

  • Familiarity with vehicle valuation tools and auction platforms

  • Strong understanding of used vehicle market trends

  • Proven ability to assess vehicle condition and estimate reconditioning and repair costs prior to purchase

  • Ability to evaluate mechanical, cosmetic, and structural considerations that may impact resale value

  • Excellent negotiation and decision-making skills

  • Strong organizational and communication skills

  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently

  • Valid driver’s license required

What we offer

  • Work / Life Balance - 5 day work week (No Sundays)
  • CAFE 125 Eligible Benefits - Health, Dental, Vision
  • Employer Paid Life Insurance
  • Employer paid short term disability
  • 401k
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) Accruals 
  • Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
  • Supportive work environment within a reputable automotive dealership.
  • Employee discounts on products and services.

We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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