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Dealership Controller Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Quest Agency

Controller - San Carlos CA

San Carlos, CA · On-site

Our client is a leading (Allsteel) Office Furniture Dealership (Fast 100 Private Growing Company in ... The Controller is responsible for directing and executing the financial affairs of the Company ...

The Center for Early Education

Controller

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Ability to solve practical problems and apply common sense and good judgment in dealing with everyday and emergency situations. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions.PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The ...

Brilliant Corners

Assistant Controller

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Position Summary The Assistant Controller will play a key role in strengthening the company ... Dealing with Ambiguity: Remains productive and effective in uncertain, rapidly changing situations ...

Brilliant Corners

Assistant Controller

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Position Summary The Assistant Controller will play a key role in strengthening the company ... Dealing with Ambiguity: Remains productive and effective in uncertain, rapidly changing situations ...

Brilliant Corners

Assistant Controller

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Position Summary The Assistant Controller will play a key role in strengthening the company ... Dealing with Ambiguity: Remains productive and effective in uncertain, rapidly changing situations ...

Casino Pauma

Table Games Dealer (Part-time)

CA · On-site

Implement all dealing procedures. * Performs other duties as assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS ... Work is performed indoors in a climate-controlled environment. * Close spaces while working with ...

San Manuel Casino

Table Games Dealer

Highland, CA

Under the direction of the Supervisor, Table Games, the Table Games Dealer is responsible for ... Primary work environment is in a climate-controlled casino setting. * Work requires travel to ...

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All JobsDealership Controller JobsDealership Controller Jobs in California

Dealership Controller information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$117.9K

$173.2K

How much do dealership controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for dealership 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dealership controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dealership Controller, you need a solid background in accounting or finance, often supported by a bachelor's degree and dealership-specific experience. Familiarity with dealership management systems (DMS) like Reynolds & Reynolds or CDK Global, as well as proficiency in Excel and financial reporting software, is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and communication skills help you collaborate with department managers and ensure compliance. These skills are vital to maintain accurate financial records, support decision-making, and ensure the dealership's profitability and regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges a dealership controller faces when managing multiple dealership locations?

A Dealership Controller overseeing multiple locations often encounters challenges such as standardizing financial processes, ensuring timely and accurate reporting, and maintaining compliance across all sites. Balancing different operational styles and system integrations can add complexity, making it essential to have strong organizational and communication skills. Regular collaboration with general managers and department heads is key to aligning financial goals and streamlining procedures, which helps support consistent profitability and regulatory compliance throughout the dealership group.

What does a dealership controller do?

As a dealership controller, your primary responsibilities are to oversee the financial aspects of an automotive dealership and monitor internal compliance. Your duties include adhering to the budget, assisting with internal audits, performing economic analysis, managing payroll, preparing an automotive plant asset report, and completing additional accounting related tasks. This job focuses heavily on the financial activities of the dealership. A dealership controller reports to the accounting director or the vice president of the dealership and can work with an automobile manufacturer or service center.

Is a dealership controller a high-level position?

A dealership controller is a senior management role responsible for overseeing financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance within a dealership. It is generally considered a high-level position that requires extensive accounting experience and leadership skills. The role often reports directly to the general manager or owner and may involve managing a team of accounting staff.

What is the difference between Dealership Controller vs Bookkeeper?

AspectDealership ControllerBookkeeper
CredentialsAccounting degree or CPA preferredBasic accounting or bookkeeping certification often sufficient
Work EnvironmentAutomotive dealership finance departmentSmall business, retail, or service industry
ResponsibilitiesFinancial reporting, budgeting, compliance, overseeing accounting staffRecording transactions, managing accounts payable/receivable
Industry UsageCommonly used in automotive dealerships and large retailUsed across various small to medium businesses

The Dealership Controller typically handles comprehensive financial management within a dealership, including reporting and compliance, requiring advanced accounting skills. In contrast, a Bookkeeper focuses on recording daily financial transactions, often with less formal credentials. While both roles involve accounting tasks, the Controller's position is more strategic and supervisory, especially in the automotive industry.

What qualifications are needed to be a dealership controller?

A dealership controller typically needs a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, along with several years of experience in accounting or financial management within the automotive industry. Strong knowledge of accounting software, financial regulations, and analytical skills are essential, and certifications such as CPA or CMA can enhance qualifications.

What is a dealership controller?

A Dealership Controller is a financial professional responsible for overseeing the accounting operations and financial health of an automotive dealership. They manage budgeting, financial reporting, payroll, and compliance with regulatory standards. Dealership Controllers also analyze financial data to support management in decision-making and ensure the dealership's financial practices are efficient and accurate. Their role is critical in maintaining transparency and profitability within the dealership.
More about Dealership Controller jobs
What are popular job titles related to Dealership Controller jobs in California? For Dealership Controller jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dealership Controller jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Dealership Controller jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Dealership Controller jobs? Cities in California with the most Dealership Controller job openings:
Dealership Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dealership Controller job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $117,932 per year, or $56.7 per hour.

Controller - San Carlos CA

Quest Agency

San Carlos, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Quest Re/Source is a New York City based Search & Recruitment Agency specializing in Contract Furnishings nationwide. Our client is a leading (Allsteel) Office Furniture Dealership (Fast 100 Private Growing Company in the Bay Area) with offices in San Carlos, San Jose, San Francisco, Seattle, New York.
Job Description
Summary
As the Controller, you are a trusted senior manager of a vital department for the Company. You provide guidance to the CFO and are a strong leader and mentor for the Finance and Accounting teams.
The Controller is responsible for directing and executing the financial affairs of the Company, including; Financial Reporting, FP&A, Treasury, Compliance and Finance Operations functions. Responsibilities include timely financial reporting, draft and implementation of Finance and Accounting policies, optimized execution of payroll, cash management and accounts payable. Timely collection of accounts receivable, and relationship development with lending institutions also fall under the responsibilities of this role. This position requires direct supervision over general accounting, payroll, internal auditing, cost accounting, and budgetary controls through policy accountability, mentorship and professional development. This position includes bothhands on accounting and supervises all finance and accounting staff. This position reports to the CFO.
The ideal candidate is highly self-motivated, professional and capable of managing their workloads and prioritizing tasks of others in a fast-paced corporate environment. This candidate will have a technical background in all areas of Finance, GL, AR, AP, Treasury. This person is technical proficient but also can see the big picture and lead others with a team approach. This candidate has excellent communication skills and routinely presents to C-level management. This person will also have a great, outgoing personality, outstanding organization skills, and initiative.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities Including but not limited to:
  • Manage all general accounting functions which include performing month-end close process, preparing and booking journal entries, account reconciliations and variance analysis
  • Assure accuracy of all general ledger activity, including reconciliations of all necessary general ledger accounts, and review of general ledger activity.
  • Responsible for timely month-end close including preparation of financial statements with comparisons and analysis of prior periods and budgets.
  • Prepare monthly Consolidated Balance Sheet, P&L and Cash Flow statements and finacials for Board packages.
  • Oversee tax related matters to ensure timely compliance
  • Direct activities related to efficient cash collection and vendor payments and overall cash management and cash forecasting.
  • Oversee and manage accounts payable, assuring all policy, procedures and internal controls are followed consistently. Assures invoices and checks are processed timely and accurately.
  • Oversee day-to-day commercial banking relationships
  • Oversee all audits/reviews - financial, tax, bank, etc.
  • Review vendor contracts and agreements
  • Help coordinate company financial planning and budget management
  • Maintain and improve upon current accounting infrastructure to scale with business growth, including documentation of policies and procedures.
  • Implement, document and maintain a system of internal controls
  • Maintain relationship with external auditors and ensure compliance of GAAP requirements
  • Analyze company operations to identify operational and cost efficiencies and implement solutions.
  • Create and report relevant and routine metrics around accounting department productivity and accuracy
  • Document and/or update standard policies and procedures as needed
  • Supervise accounting/finance staff, including hiring, training and maintaining adequate staffing levels, providing continuous coverage for all accounting/finance functions.
  • Assist in due diligence related matters
  • Assist with special projects as needed

Managerial Responsibilities
  • Accounting staff will report to this position
  • Mentor staff
  • Exercise strong work ethic and professionalism

Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Skills/Knowledge Required
  • Superb interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence
  • Excellent grasp of GAAP principals
  • Strong Proficiency with Microsoft Office software (Excel, Word, Outlook) excellent Excel skills
  • Adept at managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced work environment
  • Excellent and effective at oral and written communication
  • Strong organizational, analytical and administrative skills
  • Ability to see the big picture and integrate into day-to-day tasks and activities
  • General knowledge of all aspects of commercial furniture management, including customer service, account management, project management and design or quick to learn
  • Fluid interpersonal skills to interact effectively with a wide range of customers, personnel and departmentsAbility to work with a variety of personalities and workstyles and provide excellent customer service
  • Understanding of corporate strategy and vision with ability to communicate both effectively
  • Work ethic that embodies high degree of confidentiality, integrity, accountability and professionalism
  • Excellent attention to detail and the belief that no task is too big or too small
  • Proven organization and time management skills to complete a high volume of varied responsibilities in a fast-paced, fluid setting
  • Compelling oral and written communication skills delivered in a confident, concise and clear manner
  • Critical thinking, resourceful and problem-solving abilities coupled with a fun, positive "can-do" attitude

Education Required
  • Minimum of 8 years of Accounting experience, with increasing levels of responsibility
  • Experience in Furniture Industry preferred
  • Degree in Accounting or Finance
  • Knowledge of Core ERP Software and ADP, helpful
  • CPA certification
  • Experience managing relationships with external auditors
  • Ability to translate large amounts of data into useful information
  • Strong project management skills including an ability to multi-task, prioritize and respond quickly within a rapidly changing environment
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup environment

Additional Information
What We Offer
  • Highly competitive compensation plan
  • Innovative, high growth and collaborative culture. We believe in culture.
  • Fun, flexible and casual work environment with amazing people
  • Great snacks and lunches on Fridays
  • Vacation and paid holidays
  • Great Benefits including: Medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account, 401K with and Life and Disability coverage
  • Commuter assistance
  • Gym membership assistance
  • Pet Friendly
  • Awesome Team Events (scavenger hunts, golf tournaments, picnic, holiday party, etc.)

All information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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