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Auto Sales Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hello Mazda of San Diego

Auto Sales

San Diego, CA · On-site

Hello Auto Group has an immediate opening for a Sales Associate at our rapidly growing Mazda store in San Diego, California. Do you love the car business and interacting with customers, but don't ...

Hello Mazda of San Diego

Auto Sales

San Diego, CA · On-site

Hello Auto Group has an immediate opening for a Sales Associate at our rapidly growing Mazda store in San Diego, California. Do you love the car business and interacting with customers, but don't ...

Hello Mazda of San Diego

Auto Sales

San Diego, CA

Hello Auto Group has an immediate opening for a Sales Associate at our rapidly growing Mazda store in San Diego, California. Do you love the car business and interacting with customers, but don't ...

Hello Mazda of San Diego

Auto Sales

San Diego, CA

Hello Auto Group has an immediate opening for a Sales Associate at our rapidly growing Mazda store in San Diego, California. Do you love the car business and interacting with customers, but don't ...

Palmdale Honda

Sales Associate

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$45K - $100K/yr

Our dealership is hiring an experienced Automotive Sales Associate to join our team! When you join ... Knows and understands the federal, state and local laws which govern retail auto sales. * Knows and ...

Oxnard Mazda

Showroom Sales Representative

Oxnard, CA

$165K/yr

Preferred sales associate experience within an auto dealership setting * A valid state-issued driver's license and acceptable driving record are required About Company At Oxnard Mazda, we don't just ...

Auto-Chlor System

Field Sales Associate

Downey, CA · On-site

$40K/yr

Field Sales Associate - Downey, CA. Looking to take your sales career to the next level with a ... Auto-Chlor System is growing fast, and we want you to be part of the momentum. Since 1938, Auto ...

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All JobsAuto Sales Associate JobsAuto Sales Associate Jobs in California

Auto Sales Associate information

See California salary details

$11

$21

$43

How much do auto sales associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto sales associate in California is $21.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do car salesmen actually make good money?

Auto sales associates can earn a significant income through a combination of base salary and commissions on vehicle sales. Their earnings often depend on sales volume, experience, and the dealership's commission structure, with top performers sometimes making high incomes. However, income levels can vary widely and are often commission-based, making earnings unpredictable for some.

What are Auto Sales Associates?

Auto Sales Associates are professionals who assist customers in purchasing new or used vehicles at dealerships. They guide clients through the sales process, answer questions about different car models, arrange test drives, and help with financing or leasing options. Their goal is to provide excellent customer service and ensure customers find a vehicle that fits their needs and budget. Auto Sales Associates also stay informed about current inventory, promotions, and automotive trends to better serve clients.

What is the difference between Auto Sales Associate vs Car Salesperson?

AspectAuto Sales AssociateCar Salesperson
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; sales experienceHigh school diploma; sales experience
Work EnvironmentDealerships, showroomsDealerships, showrooms
Industry UsageCommonly used term in automotive salesSynonymous with Auto Sales Associate
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Auto Sales Associate and Car Salesperson are often used interchangeably. Both roles involve selling vehicles at dealerships, require similar credentials, and work in similar environments. The term 'Auto Sales Associate' is more formal and may be preferred in official job listings, while 'Car Salesperson' is more colloquial. Overall, they represent the same position with minor terminology differences.

What are the duties of a car sales associate?

A car sales associate is responsible for assisting customers in selecting vehicles, explaining features, and completing sales transactions. They also conduct test drives, handle paperwork, and maintain knowledge of inventory and financing options to facilitate a smooth sales process.

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

To thrive as an Auto Sales Associate, you need strong product knowledge, persuasive sales techniques, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with customer relationship management (CRM) software, dealership inventory systems, and sometimes manufacturer certification programs is typically required. Excellent communication, active listening, and a customer-focused mindset help build trust and rapport with clients. These skills and qualities are crucial for meeting sales targets, ensuring customer satisfaction, and fostering repeat business in a competitive market.

How much does a car salesman make on a $10,000 car?

Auto sales associates typically earn a commission based on the profit or a percentage of the sale price. For a $10,000 car, commissions often range from 20% to 30%, resulting in earnings of approximately $2,000 to $3,000 per sale, depending on dealership policies and the salesperson's commission structure.

What's the highest paid car salesman?

The highest-paid auto sales associates can earn over $100,000 annually, primarily through commissions on high-value vehicle sales. Top performers often have strong sales skills, industry experience, and work in luxury or high-end dealerships where profit margins are higher.

How does an Auto Sales Associate typically collaborate with the finance and service departments to ensure customer satisfaction?

Auto Sales Associates frequently work alongside the finance department to help customers secure suitable financing options and ensure all paperwork is completed accurately and efficiently. They also coordinate with the service department to address any pre-delivery vehicle inspections or post-sale service needs, ensuring a seamless transition for the customer. This cross-department collaboration helps build trust and delivers a smooth buying experience, which is key to long-term customer satisfaction and repeat business.
What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Sales jobs in California? The most popular types of Auto Sales jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Auto Sales Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Auto Sales Associate job openings:
Auto Sales Associate jobs near you

Auto Sales

Hello Mazda of San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Hello Auto Group has an immediate opening for a Sales Associate at our rapidly growing Mazda store in San Diego, California.
Do you love the car business and interacting with customers, but don't always agree with the sales process or the Management direction? Do you believe the automotive sales experience can and should be fun, transparent, and straightforward?
What if you had the ability to sign out your own customers and didn't have to wait hours for the "Finance Manager" to possibly ruin the great CSI score you worked so hard on?
At Hello Auto Group, we believe buying a car should be simple, transparent, and enjoyable. That's why we've eliminated many of the traditional dealership frustrations for both customers and employees. Our Client Advisors manage the entire customer journey, creating a better experience and building stronger relationships.
At Hello, you can give the customer the experience they deserve and work a deal that you feel good about. We are a local and privately owned dealer group. The owners are present, accessible, and involved in the day-to-day operations of the company. This approach trickles down through everyone at Hello and creates a culture of teamwork and an energy that customers feel when they arrive.
We welcome applicants with prior automotive auto sales experience, but we would also love to talk to you if you're currently involved in sales or customer service in other fields. We pay a guaranteed hourly base salary plus bonuses.
Join a great team and build a career with us!
A little bit about us...
  • We are a locally owned and operated dealership group.
  • Our pricing is clear, based on market data, and straightforward.
  • Our client advisors are professionally trained to help customers find the right vehicle, consult with them on leasing and financing, and present solutions to protect their purchase.
  • Through our Hello Gives Back initiative, we donate $25 from every vehicle sold and $1 from every vehicle serviced to local nonprofit organizations and community programs.
  • We offer our staff two paid days off to volunteer to some of the great causes we support.

Compensation Elements
  • Guaranteed base hourly pay above industry standard.
  • Additional commission based on vehicle sales, customer experience ratings and finance sales.
  • Medical, Dental and Vision plans. We pay 75% of your base medical coverage (value of over $3000 / year)
  • All of the following, paid at your effective rate - including bonuses and commission earned in the prior 90 days:
    • 2 weeks paid vacation
    • 6 paid holidays each year.
    • 5 paid sick days each year (twice the California required sick time!)
    • 3 paid bereavement days.
    • 2 paid volunteer days each year.
  • Employee Purchase program
  • We contribute to your 401K retirement savings plan - for every 6% you save, we add another 3%
  • Extremely competitive employee purchase program - big savings on cars, parts and service.
  • We believe that happy employees make happy customers. So we provide great benefits.

What We're Looking For:
  • Phenomenal communication skills with customers and coworkers alike
  • Team player
  • Outgoing personality who loves to interact and create relationships.
  • Lifelong learner mindset - driven to learn about new products, features, tools and processes.
  • Good presenter, able to share knowledge and information in an engaging manner.
  • Available to work flexible hours, including Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Clean driving record and valid driver's license

What You'll Be Doing:
  • Build relationships with customers from the moment they inquire with us
  • Provide information on the vehicle, pricing, and options - both online, on the phone, and in person
  • Set showroom and test drive appointments
  • Exhibit consultative selling skills. Assist customers in selecting a vehicle by asking questions and listening carefully to their responses.
  • Continuously develop product and sales acumen to become the vehicle authority. Know the ins and outs of products, packages, and the latest technologies.
  • Perform high-quality, professional demonstrations of vehicles and financial products
  • Learn to overcome objections and thrive within sales situations
  • Follow-up with buyers to ensure successful referral business and build customers for life

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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