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Auto Finance Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Collections Specialist - Auto Finance Lobel Financial is hiring a Collections Specialist to join our growing auto finance collections team. This role is ideal for candidates with experience in ...

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Lobel Financial is seeking a detail-oriented Quality Assurance (QA) Specialist to support our growing auto finance collections team. This opportunity is well suited for candidates with experience in ...

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Auto Finance information

See California salary details

$27.6K

$142.8K

$234.9K

How much do auto finance jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for auto finance in California is $142,754.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,100.00 and $171,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Auto Finance vs Auto Loan Specialist?

AspectAuto FinanceAuto Loan Specialist
CredentialsKnowledge of financing options, credit analysisKnowledge of loan products, credit checks
Work EnvironmentDealerships, finance companiesDealerships, banks, credit unions
Industry UsageInvolved in structuring and approving auto loansAssists customers with loan applications and approvals

Auto Finance professionals focus on structuring and managing auto loan financing, including credit analysis and loan approval processes. Auto Loan Specialists primarily assist customers in applying for and securing auto loans, often working directly with clients at dealerships. While both roles require knowledge of credit and loan products, Auto Finance roles tend to involve more financial analysis and deal structuring, whereas Auto Loan Specialists focus on customer service and application assistance.

How does an auto finance professional typically collaborate with car dealerships and lending institutions?

Auto Finance professionals frequently act as intermediaries between car buyers, dealerships, and lenders. They work closely with dealership sales teams to structure financing options that fit customers' needs while ensuring compliance with lending regulations. Additionally, they communicate with banks and credit unions to negotiate interest rates, secure loan approvals, and clarify terms, making strong relationship management and negotiation skills essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in auto finance, and why are they important?

To thrive in Auto Finance, you need a solid grasp of financial analysis, credit evaluation, and industry regulations, often supported by a degree in finance, accounting, or business. Familiarity with loan origination systems, credit scoring tools, and relevant certifications such as NAF Association certifications are typically required. Strong negotiation, attention to detail, and customer service skills help professionals excel in client interactions and problem-solving. These abilities are vital for accurately assessing creditworthiness, managing risk, and maintaining customer satisfaction in a competitive market.

What is auto finance?

Auto finance refers to the process of obtaining funds to purchase a vehicle, usually through a loan or a lease. In auto finance, a lender provides the money needed to buy a car, which the borrower then repays over time with interest. This can be arranged through banks, credit unions, car dealerships, or specialized auto finance companies. Auto financing options can vary based on credit history, down payment, loan term, and interest rates, making it important to compare offers before making a decision.

Does a career in auto finance pay well?

A career in auto finance can offer competitive salaries, especially for roles such as finance managers or loan officers, which often include commissions and bonuses. Entry-level positions typically have lower pay, but experience and skills in sales, credit analysis, and customer service can lead to higher earnings over time.

How to get into auto finance?

To enter auto finance, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring a bachelor's degree in finance, business, or related fields. Relevant skills include customer service, sales, and knowledge of financial products; obtaining certifications like the Certified Auto Finance Manager (CAFM) can also enhance prospects. Entry-level positions often require sales experience and familiarity with dealership operations or financial software.
What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Finance jobs in California? The most popular types of Auto Finance jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Auto Finance jobs in California? For Auto Finance jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Auto Finance jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Finance jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Auto Finance jobs? Cities in California with the most Auto Finance job openings:
Infographic showing various Auto Finance job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,754 per year, or $68.6 per hour.

Loan Officer - Auto Finance

Westlake Financial Services - Corporate

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Westlake Financial is the largest privately held auto finance company in the Nation. We are committed to growing and strengthening our organization by hiring the people that make Westlake World (our culture) what it is. Through hiring the best fitting applicant and supporting our people in further developing their skills, we transition our Applicants into Westlake Warriors (our people).

With 30% YOY growth and assets of 2.26 Billion, we are always looking to acquire talented individuals as we expand our presence in the Auto Finance Industry. Westlake Financial believes in PEOPLE with the PURPOSE and PASSION to assist our more than 22,000 dealer partners throughout North America.

Why Join Westlake Financial?
Westlake Financial is a leader in the auto finance industry, providing innovative and flexible lending solutions to our clients. We value our employees and offer opportunities for growth, a dynamic work environment, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. If youโ€™re passionate about helping people achieve their financial goals and enjoy working in a collaborative, high-energy environment, weโ€™d love to have you join our team.

Job Summary
Westlake Financial Services is seeking a dedicated and results-driven Loan Officer to join our Auto Finance team. As a Loan Officer, you will play a critical role in our lending process, working closely with car dealerships and clients to assess and approve auto loans. You will be responsible for evaluating loan applications, making informed lending decisions, and providing exceptional customer service to help clients achieve their vehicle financing needs.

Key Responsibilities

  • Loan Origination: Review and process auto loan applications, ensuring they meet company and regulatory requirements.
  • Application Analysis: Analyze applicants' financial backgrounds, credit histories, and other relevant information to assess risk and determine loan eligibility.
  • Decision Making: Make loan approval or rejection decisions based on financial data, risk analysis, and company guidelines.
  • Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with car dealerships, providing guidance on Westlake Financial Servicesโ€™ loan products and criteria.
  • Compliance and Documentation: Ensure all loan files comply with state and federal lending regulations, complete all necessary documentation, and update loan records accurately.
  • Customer Support: Provide excellent customer service to clients by addressing inquiries, assisting with loan requirements, and offering financial guidance.
  • Sales Collaboration: Work closely with the sales team to maximize loan opportunities, support marketing initiatives, and promote our products to new and existing clients.
  • Reporting: Regularly report on loan performance, application volume, and approval/decline rates to provide insights and support business objectives.

Requirements

  • Experience: 2-4 years of experience in loan origination or underwriting, preferably in auto finance or consumer lending.
  • Education: Bachelorโ€™s degree in finance, business, or a related field (preferred) or equivalent experience.
  • Skills:
    • Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess financial data and make sound lending decisions.
    • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively interact with dealerships, clients, and internal teams.
    • High level of attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in documentation and compliance with regulatory standards.
    • Proficiency in financial software, loan origination systems, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
  • Knowledge:
    • In-depth knowledge of auto finance lending practices, credit analysis, and risk assessment.
    • Familiarity with state and federal regulations governing consumer lending.
    • Understanding of credit scoring models and loan approval criteria.
  • Attributes:
    • Strong customer service orientation with a commitment to client satisfaction.
    • Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
    • Results-oriented with a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for loan growth and process improvements.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working with car dealerships and a network of automotive industry contacts.
  • Knowledge of Westlake Financial Servicesโ€™ products and processes.

COMPENSATION PLAN

  • Annual Total Comp $110,000.00 = Total max comp with monthly bonusesย 
  • Annual Baseย $47,985.60 = $23.07/hr
  • The exact starting compensation to be offered will be determined at the time of selecting an applicant for hire and will be dependent on a wide range of factors, including but not limited to geographic location, skill set, experience, education, credentials, and licensure when applicable

The exact starting compensation to be offered will be determined at the time of selecting an applicant for hire and will be dependent on a wide range of factors, including but not limited to geographic location, skill set, experience, education, credentials, and licensure when applicable.ย 

FULL TIME BENEFITS

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision benefitsย 
  • Life Insurance and Long-term disability plansย 
  • Flexible Spending Accountย 
  • 401K matchingย 
  • Employee Stock Ownership Program in a $20 Billion Company, plus company matchingย 
  • Wellness Programsย 
  • Metro Tap Card and Metro-link Reimbursement (for Los Angeles, CA employees only)ย 
  • Career Path Opportunitiesย 
  • Discounts on Parks, Museums, Movie Tickets, and Attractionsย 
  • Annual Flu Shot
  • Paid Vacations Daysย 
  • Paid Sick daysย 
  • Paid holidaysย 
  • HGym (available in our Los Angeles, CA & Dallas,TX office)ย 
  • Rental Car Discounts, Dell Member Purchase Programย 
  • UKG Walletย 

CONTACT US
https://www.westlakefinancial.com/careers/


ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
We will consider for employment all qualified Applicants, including those with Criminal Histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angelesโ€™ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.


We are an equal opportunity employer and do not unlawfully discriminate in employment. No question on this application is used for the purpose of limiting or excluding any applicant from consideration for employment on a basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law. Equal access to employment, services,
and programs is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application and/or interview process should notify a representative of the organization.