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Auto Dealership Controller information

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$55K

$119.5K

$175.5K

How much do auto dealership controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for auto dealership controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an auto dealership controller do?

An auto dealership controller is responsible for managing the financial operations of a car dealership. They oversee accounting functions, prepare financial statements, ensure compliance with regulations, and develop internal controls. Controllers also analyze financial data to support decision-making and may supervise accounting staff. Their role is crucial in maintaining the dealership’s financial health and supporting its business goals.

What are some common challenges faced by an Auto Dealership Controller, and how can they be addressed?

Auto Dealership Controllers often encounter challenges such as managing complex financial records, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, and coordinating between multiple departments like sales, service, and parts. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, maintain up-to-date knowledge of dealership accounting practices, and foster clear communication across teams. Leveraging dealership management software and building a proactive relationship with auditors can also help streamline operations and reduce errors.

What is the difference between Auto Dealership Controller vs Auto Dealership Bookkeeper?

AspectAuto Dealership ControllerAuto Dealership Bookkeeper
CredentialsAccounting degree, CPA preferredBasic bookkeeping certification or experience
Work EnvironmentManagement level, overseeing finance teamsEntry to mid-level, handling daily transaction recording
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in larger dealerships with complex financialsCommon in smaller dealerships for routine bookkeeping
Search & Comparison IntentFinancial management, accounting oversightTransaction recording, daily financial tasks

The Auto Dealership Controller typically holds a higher-level financial management role, overseeing accounting functions and ensuring financial accuracy, often requiring advanced credentials like a CPA. In contrast, the Auto Dealership Bookkeeper focuses on recording daily transactions and maintaining financial records. While both roles are essential for dealership financial health, the Controller has broader responsibilities and a higher level of expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Auto Dealership Controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Auto Dealership Controller, you need expertise in accounting, financial analysis, and dealership operations, typically supported by a degree in accounting or finance and experience in automotive retail. Proficiency with dealership management systems (DMS) like Reynolds & Reynolds or CDK Global, as well as knowledge of GAAP and possibly a CPA certification, is essential. Strong attention to detail, leadership, and effective communication skills set outstanding controllers apart. These abilities are crucial for ensuring accurate financial management, regulatory compliance, and the fiscal health of the dealership.
More about Auto Dealership Controller jobs
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What job categories do people searching Auto Dealership Controller jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Dealership Controller jobs are:
Auto Dealership Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Dealership Controller job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.

Auto Dealership Controller

AUDI JLR LOTUS BMW MOTO

Wilmington, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

PURPOSE:
The Controller/Secretary-Treasurer must fairly represent the financial condition of the company, develop controls necessary for the proper conduct of business, maintain accurate records and establish and maintain the data processing capabilities to accomplish the company's objectives. He/she must administer all personnel policy. MINIMUM 3 YEARS EXPERIENCE AS CONTROLLER, CDK experience preferred.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
  • Prepare a complete financial statement and submit it to the manufacturer by the 10th of each month.
  • Interpret and analyze the financial statement continually.
  • Keep the General Manager informed about trends, expense management and cash needs of the business.
  • Develop and maintain an effective cash management system. Responsible for total fiscal management of the company.
  • Establish departmental goals consistent with company goals, planning, and control.
  • Decision making in General Manager's absence and relieving the General Manager of various administrative details.
  • Supervision, training and control of office and clerical staff, including yearly performance appraisals.
  • Hiring and termination of all administrative, office, and clerical personnel.
  • Purchase and control of office supplies, equipment, machines.
  • Purchase and control of computers, telephones, etc.
  • Automate all possible systems and establish controls.
  • Coordinate with outside computer companies on computer performance and utilization.
  • Train and supervise all system operators.
  • Responsible for all accounting functions and procedures.
  • Approve adjustments to inventory accounts.
  • Administer payroll policies.
  • Coordinate annual audit and physical inventory.
  • Cash administration - checkbook, bank records, accounts payable disbursements, cash flow, expense control.
  • Maintain floor plan payments with financial institutions.
  • Preparation of yearly financial statements and reports to owners.
  • Calculation of commissions and bonuses and finalization of sales journals.
  • Account reconciliation and audits - monthly and yearly.
  • Review and prepare tax returns - Sales Taxes, Payroll Taxes, Property Taxes, etc.
  • Responsible for all clerical work for dealerships.
  • Calculation and posting of Standard Entries Journal, General Journal, and new & used Sales Journals.
  • Finalize and audit year end reports for accountant. Preparation of Company Accounting Manual.
  • Credit policy and credit issuance in coordination with the General Manager.
  • Supervise collection procedures and handle difficult cases with lawsuits and small claims court, etc. Verify credit references.
  • Preparation of Credit Policy Manual for Company.
  • Control of accounts receivable and vehicle receivables.
  • Review of credit applications.
  • Determine acceptability of checks.

OTHER DUTIES:
  • "Right-To-Know" Coordinator.
  • Chairperson of Safety Committee.
  • Act as representative of the company in dealings with attorneys, manufacturers, salespeople, insurance agents and customers.
  • Purchase property and liability insurance in cooperation with the General Manager.
  • Special projects and analysis as requested by the General Manager.
  • Numerical control of all parts, service, body shop, sales and invoices.
  • Attend departmental and outside meetings as required.
  • Communicate management's policies and procedures to all employees and ensure that they are understood and followed.
  • Receive continuous training on all personnet tax, legal and accounting issues and communicate pertinent data to departmental managers.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Administration or Accounting Degree or commensurate experience.
  • Ability to read and comprehend instructions and information.
  • One year of experience in a dealership position.
  • Working knowledge of dealership financial statements.
  • Ability to explain technical financial information in an understandable manner.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Professional personal appearance.
  • A valid driver's license and good driving record.

SUMMARY
The controller regularly reports the accurate financial state of the company to the dealer and general manager, including cost and income analyses against forecasts.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:
Prepare the monthly financial statement in the time and manner specified by the manufacturer.
Controller may be required to:
  • Verify that warranty claims, rebates and co-op advertising, etc. are current for manufacturer accounts.
  • Evaluate the daily operating control and financial reports, advising dealer of trends.
  • Assist in developing dealership financial forecasts
  • Supply department managers with applicable reports and budgets.
  • Project cash flow needs, suggest ways to use surplus to the greatest advantage
  • Audit general ledger and other accounts for irregularities.
  • Comply with government finance regulations, ensuring proper income, payroll tax and retirement plan forms are filed and kept current.
  • Evaluate dealership computer system to ensure operation at maximum efficiency.
  • Work with dealer to evaluate current insurance coverage, renew or purchase liability and property coverage, process and claims.
  • Compare general ledger against other records to confirm payables, reserve accounts and reconciliation
  • Ensure proper internal accounting controls are in place, and oversee CPA document preparation or annual audit and physical inventory.
  • Apply depreciation rates to capital assets.
  • Attend manager meetings.
  • Review evolving tax code and suggest necessary changes in business procedures to accommodate changes.
  • Keep reserves for trade receivables and potential liabilities.
  • Ensure accurate data entry and reporting within dealerships.

In addition, Controller should:
  • Possess basic math skills.
  • Be capable of speaking with customers or employees; reading/understanding manuals, operating and maintenance instructions, and safety regulations; and writing financial/marketing reports and other correspondence.
  • Be professional and courteous in attitude, wardrobe and grooming.
  • Complete other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
Bachelor's degree from four-year college/university, 1-2 years work-related experience/training, or an equivalent combination.

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