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Automotive Controller Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CarGuys Inc.

Dealership Controller

San Jose, CA · On-site

$174K/yr

AUTOMOTIVE CONTROLLER / DEALERSHIP CONTROLLER / AUTOMOTIVE ACCOUNTING MANAGER - UP TO $174,000+ PER YEAR CarGuys Inc. - High-Paying Automotive Accounting Management Jobs Nationwide LOCATION ...

Go Auto

Controller (Los Angeles)

Los Angeles, CA

$120K - $160K/yr

Go Auto is one of North America's largest automotive groups, with more than 70 dealerships across ... If you're an experienced automotive Controller who enjoys partnering with dealership leadership ...

Go Auto

Controller (Los Angeles)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Controller Los Angeles, California Great dealerships need great financial leaders ... Go Auto is one of North America's largest automotive groups, with more than 70 dealerships across ...

Go Auto

Controller (Los Angeles)

Los Angeles, CA

$120K - $160K/yr

Go Auto is one of North America's largest automotive groups, with more than 70 dealerships across ... If you're an experienced automotive Controller who enjoys partnering with dealership leadership ...

Go Auto

Controller (Los Angeles)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Go Auto is one of North America's largest automotive groups, with more than 70 dealerships across ... If you're an experienced automotive Controller who enjoys partnering with dealership leadership ...

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Controller

Anaheim, CA · On-site

Automotive Parts Distribution Employment Type: Full-Time We are seeking an experienced Controller to join a growing Orange County-based automotive parts distributor. This is a key leadership role ...

Wieland

Controller

South Gate, CA · On-site

$114K - $130K/yr

We provide a large product and service portfolio including power, automotive, ammunition, coinage ... Wieland is hiring a Controller . The Controller is responsible for leading all accounting and ...

Wieland

Controller

South Gate, CA · On-site

$114K - $143K/yr

We provide a large product and service portfolio including power, automotive, ammunition, coinage ... Wieland is hiring a Controller . The Controller is responsible for leading all accounting and ...

Wieland North America, Inc

Controller

South Gate, CA · On-site

$115 - $130/hr

We provide a large product and service portfolio including power, automotive, ammunition, coinage ... Wieland is hiring a Controller . The Controller is responsible for leading all accounting and ...

Wieland

Controller

South Gate, CA · On-site

$114K - $130K/yr

We provide a large product and service portfolio including power, automotive, ammunition, coinage ... Wieland is hiring a Controller . The Controller is responsible for leading all accounting and ...

Pacific Fusion

Controller

San Leandro, CA · On-site

Why This Role Matters As Controller, you will be responsible for all accounting and financial ... Experience working in industries such as: fusion, energy, aerospace, automotive or manufacturing

Fusion Energy Base

Controller

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Why This Role Matters As Controller, you will be responsible for all accounting and financial ... Experience working in industries such as fusion, energy, aerospace, automotive, or manufacturing.

Ever

Assistant Controller

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$165K - $200K/yr

Controller Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt About Ever Ever is building the modern electric ... Automotive, dealership, retail, or inventory accounting experience. * Experience using ERP or ...

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All JobsAutomotive Controller JobsAutomotive Controller Jobs in California

Automotive Controller information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$117.9K

$173.2K

How much do automotive controller jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive controller in California is $117,932.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,700.00 and $136,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automotive controller?

An Automotive Controller is a finance professional responsible for overseeing the accounting, financial reporting, and budgeting processes within an automotive dealership or manufacturing company. They ensure compliance with industry regulations, manage internal controls, and provide financial analysis to support business decisions. Additionally, they oversee accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and tax filings while working closely with management to improve profitability.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an automotive controller in an auto dealership?

Automotive Controllers are responsible for overseeing all accounting operations, preparing financial statements, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with automotive industry regulations. You’ll typically supervise accounting staff, reconcile dealership accounts, handle payroll, and work closely with department managers to analyze financial performance. The role also involves monthly and yearly closing processes, working with external auditors, and implementing internal controls. Expect to collaborate regularly with dealership ownership and department heads, making the position both strategic and hands-on in a fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the automotive controller position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Controller, you need strong financial management skills, a solid understanding of dealership accounting, and a degree in accounting or finance. Familiarity with dealership management systems (such as CDK Global or Reynolds & Reynolds), advanced Excel skills, and CPA certification are often highly valued. Attention to detail, leadership ability, strong organizational skills, and effective communication set top candidates apart. These competencies are essential for ensuring financial accuracy, regulatory compliance, and effective collaboration within an automotive dealership environment.

How do you become an automotive controller?

To become an automotive controller, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, along with experience in financial management or accounting within the automotive industry. Strong analytical skills, knowledge of accounting software, and understanding of automotive operations are also important. Some roles may require professional certifications such as CPA or CMA.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Controller jobs in California?

The most popular types of Automotive Controller jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Automotive Controller jobs in California?

For Automotive Controller jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automotive Controller jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Automotive Controller jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Automotive Controller jobs?

Cities in California with the most Automotive Controller job openings:

Automotive Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Controller job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,932 per year, or $56.7 per hour.

Automotive Controller

Automotive Career Professionals

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Automotive Career Professionals | Full time

Automotive Controller

South San Francisco | Posted on 07/21/2026

Automotive Controller | San Francisco Bay Area Are you an experienced Automotive Controller looking for a role where you can actually influence growth? We are currently seeking a Controller for a dealership in the San Francisco, CA. market. While this is a smaller store, it is part of an acquisition-minded dealer group—meaning there is significant room for professional expansion as they grow footprint in the market. The Details: Location: San Francisco Market Compensation: $120,000 – $150,000 (commensurate with experience) The Vibe: Small store feel with "Big Group" resources and acquisition opportunities. If you are a detail-oriented financial leader who enjoys the "build" phase of a business, I want to talk to you.

Job Requirements
  • Recommends to management team major financial strategies and objectives for theDealer Group.
  • Provides management with timely reviews of dealership’s financial status andprogress.
  • Prepares a monthly financial statement by the 5th of the month.
  • Performs monthly balance sheet account analysis.
  • Prepares reports which summarize, forecast company business activity andfinancial position in areas of income, expenses, and earnings based on past,present, and expected operations.
  • Conveys the financial condition of each department to the department manager
  • Oversees dealership accounting.
  • Reinforces company policies and adheres to company standards.
  • Encourages compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
  • Ensures proper internal controls are in place.
  • Attends weekly manager meetings.
  • Maintains good working relationship with banks and other financialinstitutions.
  • Ensures that annual external audit requirements are met.
  • Maintains effective employee relations & promotes and maintains good ESI.
  • Maintains CSI at or above company standards.

Qualifications:

  • Require at least 3 years OfficeManager Experience in an Automotive Dealership.
  • Held qualified position within the past 12 months.
  • Minimum of 5 years'experience in an Automotive Dealership Office
  • In-depth experience in all areas of retail automotive accounting (including assistance to Dealer in strategic planning, balance sheet management and all payroll and dealership HR functions)
  • Experience working with management team on financial analysis and expense control
  • In-depth knowledge of the CDK / ADP dealership management system
  • Experience in managinga multiple franchise business office.
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Strong people management skills

All inquiries held inconfidence.

Our client is a equalopportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment without regard torace, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics,protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, orany other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Skill Set

Qualifications:Require at least 3 years Office Manager Experience in an Automotive Dealership.Held qualified position within the past 12 months.Minimum of 5 years' experience in an Automotive Dealership OfficeIn-depth experience in all areas of retail automotive accounting (including assistance to Dealer in strategic planning, balance sheet management and all payroll and dealership HR functions)Experience working with management team on financial analysis and expense controlExperience in managing a multiple franchise business office.Strong analytical skillsStrong people management skills

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