1

Car Buyer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Car Buyer is responsible for sourcing, acquiring, pricing, and managing vehicle inventory to support dealership sales goals and profitability. This position plays a key role in maintaining the ...

Audi Rocklin is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Used Car Buyer to join our team in Rocklin, CA. In this role, you will be responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and purchasing pre-owned ...

Used Car Buyer/Manager for Franchise Car Dealership Location: TRI CITIES, TN About Us: As a premier franchise car dealership, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse selection of high-quality used ...

Used Car Buyer/Manager for Franchise Car Dealership Location: TRI CITIES, TN About Us: As a premier franchise car dealership, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse selection of high-quality used ...

Audi Rocklin is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Used Car Buyer to join our team in Rocklin, CA. In this role, you will be responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and purchasing pre-owned ...

Used Car Buyer/Manager for Franchise Car Dealership Location: TRI CITIES, TN About Us: As a premier franchise car dealership, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse selection of high-quality used ...

The Used Car Buyer is responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and purchasing pre-owned vehicles to maintain a competitive and profitable inventory across the dealership group. This role plays a ...

Used Car Buyer

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Audi Rocklin is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Used Car Buyer to join our team in Rocklin, CA. In this role, you will be responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and purchasing pre-owned ...

Used Car Buyer/Manager for Franchise Car Dealership Location: TRI CITIES, TN About Us: As a premier franchise car dealership, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse selection of high-quality used ...

Used Car Buyer/Manager for Franchise Car Dealership Location: TRI CITIES, TN About Us: As a premier franchise car dealership, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse selection of high-quality used ...

Used Car Buyer

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Audi Rocklin is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Used Car Buyer to join our team in Rocklin, CA. In this role, you will be responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and purchasing pre-owned ...

The Car Buyer is responsible for sourcing, acquiring, pricing, and managing vehicle inventory to support dealership sales goals and profitability. This position plays a key role in maintaining the ...

The Used Car Buyer is responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and purchasing pre-owned vehicles to maintain a competitive and profitable inventory across the dealership group. This role plays a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Car Buyer information

See salary details

$27K

$62.7K

$100.5K

How much do car buyer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for car buyer in the United States is $62,661.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $75,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Car Buyer vs Car Salesperson?

AspectCar BuyerCar Salesperson
Required CredentialsNo formal credentials; knowledge of vehicles and financingSales training; sometimes certifications in automotive sales
Work EnvironmentIndependently research and negotiate purchases, often at dealerships or onlineDealerships, showrooms, or online sales platforms
Employer & Industry UsageIndividuals or companies purchasing vehicles for personal or fleet useAutomobile dealerships, sales agencies, or online car sales
Search & Comparison IntentLooking to buy a vehicle, compare prices, or negotiate dealsInterested in selling vehicles, customer engagement, or sales techniques

The main difference is that a Car Buyer focuses on purchasing vehicles, often independently or through negotiations, while a Car Salesperson is employed by dealerships to sell cars to customers. Both roles require knowledge of vehicles and the industry, but their primary goals and activities differ significantly.

What is the 30-60-90 rule for cars?

The 30-60-90 rule for cars is a guideline used during vehicle inspections or repairs, indicating that within the first 30 days or 1,000 miles, the focus is on initial adjustments; between 30 and 60 days or miles, more thorough checks are performed; and after 90 days or miles, major maintenance or repairs may be needed. For car buyers and technicians, understanding this timeline helps in planning maintenance and assessing vehicle condition over time.

What does a car buyer do?

A car buyer is responsible for purchasing vehicles on behalf of a dealership, organization, or individual. Their job involves researching vehicle options, negotiating prices with sellers, inspecting cars for quality, and ensuring that the purchased vehicles meet specific needs or criteria. Car buyers often work with new and used cars, stay updated on market trends, and may also handle the paperwork and logistics involved in acquiring the vehicles.

What are some common challenges a Car Buyer faces when evaluating vehicles for purchase?

Car Buyers often encounter challenges such as accurately assessing a vehicle’s condition, verifying its history, and negotiating fair prices with sellers. Staying updated on market trends and demand is essential to avoid overpaying or purchasing slow-moving inventory. Additionally, Car Buyers must collaborate closely with sales teams and management to ensure purchased vehicles align with dealership goals and customer preferences.

What do automotive buyers do?

Automotive buyers research and evaluate vehicles to determine the best options for their needs, often negotiating prices and financing terms. They may work for dealerships or as independent consultants, using industry knowledge and tools like vehicle history reports to make informed purchasing decisions.

How to get hired to sell cars?

To get hired as a car salesperson, candidates should have good communication skills, a basic understanding of vehicles, and a professional appearance. Many dealerships require a high school diploma or equivalent and may prefer prior sales experience or a valid driver's license. Completing training programs or obtaining certifications in automotive sales can improve job prospects.

How much does a car salesman make on a $30,000 car?

A car salesperson typically earns a commission based on the profit margin or a percentage of the sale price, often ranging from 20% to 30%. For a $30,000 car, this could translate to a commission of approximately $600 to $900, depending on the dealership's commission structure and the profit on the vehicle. Additional bonuses or incentives may also affect total earnings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Car Buyer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Car Buyer, you need strong negotiation skills, market research abilities, and a thorough understanding of vehicle valuation and automotive trends, often supported by prior experience in automotive sales or purchasing. Familiarity with dealership management systems, vehicle history reporting tools, and pricing software is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and relationship-building skills help in sourcing quality vehicles and securing favorable deals. These competencies are essential to make informed purchasing decisions, maximize profitability, and maintain a reliable inventory for dealerships or clients.
More about Car Buyer jobs
What cities are hiring for Car Buyer jobs? Cities with the most Car Buyer job openings:
What states have the most Car Buyer jobs? States with the most job openings for Car Buyer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Car Buyer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Car Buyer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Car Buyer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,661 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

$50K - $70K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description

Tri State Ford, a Locally Owned and Community Driven automotive dealership in East Liverpool, OH, is looking for a 

Results -Driven and Dynamic Car Buyer. 


The Car Buyer is responsible for sourcing, acquiring, pricing, and managing vehicle inventory to support dealership sales goals and profitability. This position plays a key role in maintaining the right mix of new and pre-owned vehicles by monitoring market trends, evaluating inventory performance, attending auctions, purchasing vehicles from private parties and trade-ins, and coordinating with dealership leadership and sales teams.


The ideal candidate:

  • is disciplined and consistent with processes
  • open to new ideas, processes and strategies
  • resilient and learns from failures
  • has a high sense of urgency

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Source and acquire quality new and pre-owned vehicle inventory through auctions, trade-ins, wholesalers, private sellers, and other channels 
  • Evaluate vehicle condition, market demand, pricing trends, and profitability potential prior to purchase 
  • Maintain optimal inventory levels and vehicle mix to meet dealership sales objectives 
  • Monitor local and national automotive market trends, pricing guides, and competitor inventory 
  • Collaborate with sales management to identify inventory needs and fast-moving vehicle segments 
  • Review aging inventory and assist in developing pricing and merchandising strategies 
  • Negotiate vehicle purchases and transportation arrangements to maximize profitability 
  • Attend physical and online automotive auctions as needed 
  • Appraise trade-in vehicles and assist with vehicle acquisition opportunities 
  • Ensure accurate inventory records, vehicle information, and purchase documentation 
  • Coordinate reconditioning timelines and inventory readiness with service and detail departments 
  • Maintain strong relationships with auction representatives, wholesalers, and vendors 
  • Assist in forecasting inventory needs based on sales history, seasonal trends, and market demand 
  • Ensure compliance with dealership policies, manufacturer standards, and applicable regulations 

Qualifications

  • Previous automotive inventory, buying, appraisal, or used car management experience preferred 
  • Knowledge of vehicle valuation tools, auction platforms, and market pricing resources 
  • Understanding of dealership operations, vehicle reconditioning, and retail sales processes 
  • Strong negotiation and decision-making skills 
  • Excellent organizational and analytical abilities 
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment 
  • Proficient with dealership management systems (DMS) and inventory software 
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills 
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record required 

Preferred Skills & Experience

  • Experience working in a Ford dealership environment 
  • Familiarity with Ford product lines and certified pre-owned standards 
  • Experience with online auction platforms and inventory management systems 
  • Ability to analyze inventory turn rates, gross profit, and market demand metrics 

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand, walk, and inspect vehicles for extended periods 
  • Ability to operate vehicles safely 
  • Ability to travel locally or regionally for auctions or vehicle acquisitions as needed 
  • Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds 

Work Environment

This position operates in both office and outdoor dealership environments and may require travel to auctions, dealerships, or off-site vehicle acquisition locations. Evening or weekend hours may occasionally be required based on auction schedules and business needs.


Benefits

  • Competitive compensation package 
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance 
  • Company-paid life and short-term disability insurance 
  • 401(k) with company match 
  • Paid time off and holidays 
  • Ongoing training and career development opportunities 

Schedule

  • Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and Saturdays as needed. 

Pay

  • Base salary plus bonuses


Tri State Ford is an equal opportunity employer.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to these factors.