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Car Tester Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Car Tester information

See Tennessee salary details

$9

$34

$56

How much do car tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for car tester in Tennessee is $34.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $46.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a car tester?

Car testers are professionals who evaluate and assess vehicles for performance, safety, comfort, and reliability. They may work for automotive manufacturers, magazines, or independent organizations, conducting road tests, reporting on vehicle features, and identifying potential issues. Their feedback helps manufacturers improve vehicle design and assists consumers in making informed purchasing decisions. Car testers often have a background in automotive engineering or journalism and possess strong analytical and driving skills.

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

To thrive as a Car Tester, you need a solid understanding of automotive technology, vehicle mechanics, and safety standards, often supported by a degree or certification in automotive engineering or a related field. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, data logging systems, and test track protocols is essential for accurately assessing vehicle performance. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and effective communication help Car Testers document findings and collaborate with engineering teams. These skills ensure that vehicles meet quality and safety standards before reaching consumers, supporting both product integrity and customer satisfaction.

What are some typical challenges faced by car testers during vehicle evaluation?

Car testers often encounter challenges such as identifying subtle performance issues that may only appear under specific driving conditions, adapting quickly to different makes and models, and maintaining safety while pushing vehicles to their limits. They also need to document findings accurately and communicate feedback effectively with engineering and design teams. Collaboration, attention to detail, and adaptability are crucial skills for overcoming these challenges and ensuring thorough, unbiased vehicle assessments.

What is the difference between Car Tester vs Vehicle Inspector?

AspectCar TesterVehicle Inspector
Required CredentialsDriving license, basic vehicle knowledgeCertification in vehicle inspection, safety standards
Work EnvironmentTest tracks, automotive labs, testing facilitiesInspection stations, government facilities, repair shops
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive testing companies, manufacturersGovernment agencies, safety organizations
Comparison Search IntentYesYes

Car Testers focus on evaluating vehicle performance and handling, often working in testing facilities or on test tracks. Vehicle Inspectors primarily assess vehicle safety and compliance with regulations at inspection stations. While both roles require automotive knowledge, Car Testers emphasize performance testing, whereas Vehicle Inspectors focus on safety standards and certification.

How do you become a car tester?

To become a car tester, individuals typically need a background in automotive engineering, mechanics, or related fields, along with strong driving skills and knowledge of vehicle systems. Relevant experience, a valid driver's license, and sometimes certifications in safety or vehicle inspection are also important. Car testers often work for automotive companies, testing prototypes or new models in controlled environments or on the road.

How to become a car tester?

To become a car tester, candidates typically need a strong knowledge of vehicles, driving experience, and good communication skills. Some positions require a background in automotive engineering or related fields, and familiarity with testing tools or data collection devices is helpful. Gaining experience through automotive testing programs or internships can improve chances of entry into the field.

Is car testing a good career?

Car testing is a specialized role that involves evaluating vehicle performance, safety, and quality, often requiring knowledge of automotive systems and testing procedures. It can be a stable career for those with technical skills and a background in engineering or automotive technology, with opportunities in research and development, quality assurance, and product testing environments.

What are popular job titles related to Car Tester jobs in Tennessee?

For Car Tester jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Car Tester jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Car Tester jobs in Tennessee are:

Car Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Car Tester job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 51% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,420 per year, or $34.8 per hour.

Used Car Manager - Nissan Chattanooga East

Sonic Automotive, Inc.

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$180 - $240/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Oversee all aspects of used vehicle operations, including inventory management, acquisition, and pricing.

  • Work with the service department to recondition used vehicles and ensure they are ready for sale.

  • Develop marketing strategies and collaborate with the sales team to promote used vehicle inventory and push aged units.

Sonic Automotive rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

118th of 159 rated car dealerships

Job description

Used Car Manager - Nissan Chattanooga East in Chattanooga, TN at Sonic Automotive

Location: 2121 Chapman Road
Chattanooga, TN 37421

Job Type: Sales

Experience: Mid-Senior Level

About

Sonic Automotive is a multi-billion dollar Fortune 500 company and one of the largest automotive dealer groups in the country with 100+ dealerships nationwide across 25 brands.

AtNissan Chattanooga East,a Sonic Automotive family dealership, you'll find the opportunities, resources, and support you need to grow and develop professionally. So read on, and consider a rewarding career with Sonic Automotive, Inc.

$5k monthly draw plus commission up to $120k-$180k

Job Description

Summary:

The Used Car Manager will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our used vehicle operations, which includes acquiring quality pre-owned vehicles, managing inventory, setting competitive pricing, marketing, and working closely with the sales and service departments to ensure maximum profitability and efficient reconditioning.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Manage and maintain the dealership's used car inventory, ensuring optimal stock levels.
  • Build and implement competitive pricing strategies for used vehicles based on market analysis.
  • Acquire pre-owned vehicles through auctions, trade-ins, and other sources to maintain a diverse and desirable inventory.
  • Work closely with the service department to recondition used vehicles, ensuring they are ready for sale.
  • Monitor and adjust inventory pricing to remain competitive in the market while meeting profit targets.
  • Develop marketing strategies to promote used vehicle inventory across various channels.
  • Collaborate with the sales team to ensure they are informed about the current used car inventory and push aged units.
  • Analyze market trends and consumer preferences to align inventory with customer demand.
  • Conduct regular appraisals of trade-ins and pre-owned vehicles to ensure accurate and fair pricing
  • Ensure compliance with all regulatory and dealership standards for used vehicle operations.
  • 1+ years of experience as a Used Car Manager at an automotive dealership.
  • Experience in automotive management, specifically with used car operations.
  • Knowledge of vehicle acquisition, inventory management, and pricing strategies.
  • Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with the sales and service departments.
  • Valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
  • All applicants must be authorized to work in the USA.
  • All applicants must be able to demonstrate ability to pass pre-employment testing to include background checks, MVR, drug test, and valid driver license.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 3+ years of experience as a Used Car Manager at an automotive dealership

Compensation:

  • Monthly Draw / Uncapped Commission

Schedule:

  • FULL TIME
  • 5 days / 2 days off
  • Weekend availability required
  • Sundays off
  • 401k plan with company match
  • Paid Time Off accrual
  • Closed for Thanksgiving day and Christmas day
  • Employee discounts on purchasing and leasing cars
  • Access toall our 100+ stores' inventory
  • Opportunities for career advancement within a Fortune 500 company

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEOC guidelines

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What Sonic Automotive employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Sonic Automotive logo

About Sonic Automotive

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At a Sonic Automotive family dealership, you'll find the opportunities, resources, and support you need to grow and develop professionally. Our 100+ dealerships are concerned with more than moving inventory; they're committed to your success and invested in your future.

Industry

Motor vehicle and motor vehicle parts wholesalers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1997

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