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Car Porter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

OPTIMA DEALER SERVICES INC.

Car Wash Porter

Carson, CA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Car Wash Porter Location: Dealership - Toyota at Carson CA Department: Car Wash Employment Type: Full-Time and/or Part-Time Compensation: $17.00-$18.50 per hour (non-exempt, hourly; based on ...

Thomas Acura

Automotive Lot Porter / Car Washer

Covina, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $17.75/hr

Looking for a motivated, hard-working team player for a service and sales lot porter/car washer. Duties include washing cars, new and used car prep, general lot maintenance, shuttling customers and ...

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Car Porter information

See California salary details

$11

$14

$17

How much do car porter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for car porter in California is $14.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $15.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a car porter?

A Car Porter, also known as a lot attendant or vehicle porter, is responsible for moving and organizing vehicles at car dealerships, service centers, or rental agencies. Their duties typically include cleaning and detailing vehicles, parking and retrieving cars for customers, and assisting with the overall appearance and organization of the lot. Car Porters may also help with basic maintenance tasks and ensure vehicles are ready for display or delivery. This role is essential for keeping operations running smoothly and providing excellent customer service.

What does a car porter do?

A car porter works for an automobile dealership. In this career, your responsibilities are to prepare and deliver a vehicle to the lot so that it is ready for the customer to take home. You also perform numerous duties related to the care of cars at the dealership. While most of your job as an auto porter is simply driving, you may also wash and wax the vehicle, clean the interior after a test drive, and check fluid levels, such as oil and coolant levels.

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

To thrive as a Car Porter, you need a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and familiarity with basic vehicle operation and maintenance. Experience with dealership management systems or inventory tracking tools is often helpful. Reliability, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills set exceptional Car Porters apart. These abilities ensure vehicles are moved safely and efficiently, supporting dealership operations and customer satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced by car porters in a dealership setting?

Car Porters often work in fast-paced environments where they are responsible for efficiently moving vehicles around the dealership, maintaining the cleanliness of the lot, and assisting with vehicle deliveries. A common challenge is managing multiple priorities, especially during busy periods or special events. Additionally, Car Porters must be vigilant about vehicle safety and organization to prevent accidents or misplacement. Teamwork and clear communication with sales, service, and management staff are essential for smooth operations.

What is the difference between Car Porter vs Car Detailer?

AspectCar PorterCar Detailer
CredentialsNo formal certification typically requiredMay require basic certification or training in detailing
Work EnvironmentCar dealerships, rental agencies, valet servicesAuto detailing shops, dealerships, private clients
Job FocusMoving, parking, and basic vehicle handlingCleaning, polishing, and restoring vehicle appearance
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in automotive and rental industriesCommon in auto detailing and car care services

While a Car Porter primarily handles vehicle movement and basic tasks in automotive settings, a Car Detailer specializes in cleaning and restoring vehicles' appearance. Both roles are essential in the automotive industry but focus on different aspects of vehicle care and handling.

How to become a car porter?

To become a car porter, you typically need a valid driver's license, good driving skills, and physical stamina for moving vehicles. Some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training is common to learn specific procedures and safety protocols.
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Car Porter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Car Porter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,245 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

Car Wash Porter

OPTIMA DEALER SERVICES INC.

Carson, CA • On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Opportunity: Car Wash Porter

Location: Dealership - Toyota at Carson CA
Department: Car Wash 
Employment Type: Full-Time and/or Part-Time
Compensation: $17.00–$18.50 per hour (non-exempt, hourly; based on experience and qualifications)
Company: Optima Dealer Services, Inc.

About Optima Dealer Services

Optima Dealer Services, Inc. provides professional staffing and operational support to luxury automotive dealerships throughout California. We are committed to operational excellence, compliance, and providing a respectful, safe, and inclusive workplace.

Position Overview

The Car Wash Porter is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness, presentation, and organization of dealership vehicles while adhering to all safety, operational, and quality standards. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on work in a fast-paced environment and take pride in attention to detail.

Why Join Us?

  • Hands-On Experience: Work with luxury and late-model vehicles

  • Active Role: Physically engaging work environment

  • Skill Development: Exposure to dealership operations and vehicle care

  • Growth Opportunities: Advancement paths within service and operations

  • Professional Team Culture: Safety-focused, respectful, and performance-driven

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Wash, dry, and detail vehicles using approved methods and materials

  • Clean interiors, including windows, dashboards, consoles, and seating areas

  • Vacuum interiors and remove debris

  • Maintain organization and cleanliness of vehicle inventory and work areas

  • Move vehicles between designated areas when assigned and authorized

  • Follow all dealership safety procedures and Cal/OSHA guidelines

  • Properly use cleaning products, tools, and personal protective equipment (PPE)

  • Support service and sales operations with additional tasks as assigned

Qualifications

  • Driving Assignments Only:

    • Valid California driver’s license and acceptable driving record - Car Wash Porter Level 2 

    • Ability to safely operate automatic vehicles (manual transmission preferred but not required)

    • Driving duties are assigned based on role level and business needs

  • General Qualifications:

    • Strong attention to detail and time management

    • Ability to follow instructions and work independently

    • Reliable attendance and punctuality

  • Physical Requirements:

    • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods

    • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.

    • Ability to perform repetitive motions

    • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions, in accordance with applicable law

Applicants without a driver’s license may be considered for non-driving Car Wash Porter positions.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Eligible employees may receive additional benefits, including:

    • Competitive hourly pay within the stated range

    • Paid sick leave in accordance with California law

    • Health benefits eligibility (based on employment status)

    • Vacation benefits for eligible full-time employees

    • Training and advancement opportunities

How to Apply

If you are interested in joining a professional, safety-focused team supporting luxury automotive dealerships, we encourage you to apply today.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Optima Dealer Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws, including the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, national origin, ancestry, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.