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Dealership Controller Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Jim Winter Buick GMC Cadillac, Inc.

Be Seen First

Controller / Office Manager

Jackson, MI · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Auto Dealership Controller Join a Team Built on Precision and Strategy Are you a detail-oriented Leader who thrives on accuracy and technical mastery. If you are thorough, proactive and move with ...

Robert Half

Controller

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

The ideal candidate brings strong dealership accounting knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to manage core controllership processes in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities: • ...

iMBranded

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Controller

Troy, MI · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

We are a full-service manufacturer of fixtures, furniture and graphic products specializing in the retail automotive segment with OEMs and the dealer network. The Corporate Controller is responsible ...

Brightwing

Dealer Auditor-Remote

Auburn Hills, MI · Remote

$35 - $40/hr

Audits are primarily conducted to ensure dealership reimbursements for commercial activities (e.g ... Knowledge of sales, finance, and controlling is essential. Requirements: Bachelor's Degree in ...

Carmax

Dealership Mechanic

Wyoming, MI · On-site

Join a team that values integrity, innovation, and excellence, working in a modern, climate-controlled facility designed for efficiency and comfort. At CarMax, we invest in your growth with ongoing ...

Carmax

Dealership Mechanic

Jenison, MI · On-site

Join a team that values integrity, innovation, and excellence, working in a modern, climate-controlled facility designed for efficiency and comfort. At CarMax, we invest in your growth with ongoing ...

Carmax

Dealership Mechanic

Kentwood, MI · On-site

Join a team that values integrity, innovation, and excellence, working in a modern, climate-controlled facility designed for efficiency and comfort. At CarMax, we invest in your growth with ongoing ...

Carmax

Dealership Mechanic

Caledonia, MI · On-site

Join a team that values integrity, innovation, and excellence, working in a modern, climate-controlled facility designed for efficiency and comfort. At CarMax, we invest in your growth with ongoing ...

Carmax

Dealership Mechanic

Grand Rapids, MI

Join a team that values integrity, innovation, and excellence, working in a modern, climate-controlled facility designed for efficiency and comfort. At CarMax, we invest in your growth with ongoing ...

Carmax

Dealership Mechanic

Grandville, MI · On-site

Join a team that values integrity, innovation, and excellence, working in a modern, climate-controlled facility designed for efficiency and comfort. At CarMax, we invest in your growth with ongoing ...

Carmax

Dealership Auto Technician

Wyoming, MI · On-site

Join a team that values integrity, innovation, and excellence, working in a modern, climate-controlled facility designed for efficiency and comfort. At CarMax, we invest in your growth with ongoing ...

Carmax

Dealership Auto Technician

Jenison, MI

Join a team that values integrity, innovation, and excellence, working in a modern, climate-controlled facility designed for efficiency and comfort. At CarMax, we invest in your growth with ongoing ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsDealership Controller JobsDealership Controller Jobs in Michigan

Dealership Controller information

See Michigan salary details

$47.9K

$104.2K

$153K

How much do dealership controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for dealership controller in Michigan is $104,153.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $120,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job at a car dealership?

The highest paying job at a car dealership is typically the General Manager or Dealer Principal, who oversees all dealership operations and can earn six-figure salaries plus bonuses. Other high-paying roles include Finance Directors and Service Managers, especially in larger dealerships with complex operations. These positions often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and industry knowledge.

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 controller do at a dealership?

A dealership controller is responsible for managing the financial operations of the dealership, including accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance. They oversee cash flow, analyze financial data, and ensure accurate record-keeping, often using accounting software like QuickBooks or SAP. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of automotive industry regulations are essential for this role.

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.

How to become a dealership controller?

To become a dealership controller, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, along with experience in automotive dealership operations or accounting. Strong skills in financial analysis, management, and familiarity with dealership management software are essential, and some roles may require professional certifications such as CPA or CMA.

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.

Is 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 considered a high-level position that requires extensive accounting knowledge, leadership skills, and often a CPA certification. The controller typically reports to the general manager or owner and plays a key role in strategic financial decisions.

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 Michigan? For Dealership Controller jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dealership Controller jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Dealership Controller jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Dealership Controller jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Dealership Controller job openings:
Dealership Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dealership Controller job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $104,153 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Controller / Office Manager

Jim Winter Automotive Group

Jackson, MI

$85K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Auto Dealership Controller

Join a Team Built on Precision and Strategy

Are you a detail-oriented Leader who thrives on accuracy and technical mastery.  If you are thorough, proactive and move with intentionality, you will find a home on our growing team. We value your ability to research, maintain a high standard of technical expertise, and provide the steady, logical oversight necessary to Lead our dealership's financial success in the accounting office.

 

Job Summary

We are seeking a high-level Controller/Office Manager to lead our financial and administrative operations at Jim Winter Buick GMC Cadillac. This role is a vital partner to ownership, combining strategic financial oversight with hands-on leadership of our accounting team. You will ensure the dealership’s operational efficiency while maintaining strict financial integrity.

Key Responsibilities

  • Financial Integrity: Prepare and submit accurate monthly financial statements to General Motors and dealership leadership.
  • Team Leadership: Supervise and mentor office staff to ensure high productivity and a positive work culture.
  • Financial Operations: Manage AP/AR, payroll, bank reconciliations, and vehicle floor plan financing.
  • Operational Support: Partner with Department Managers to analyze profitability and control expenses.
  • Compliance: Oversee HR administrative tasks and ensure compliance with all federal, state, and manufacturer regulations.

Required Qualifications

  • Experience: 3–5+ years of automotive dealership accounting/controller experience.
  • Software Proficiency: Candidates with experience in Reynolds & Reynolds or Tekion are strongly preferred.
  • Proficiency in Federal and Michigan Tax filing requirements & process
  • Proficiency in payroll / HR laws
  • Technical Skills: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
  • Leadership: Proven ability to lead a team in a fast-paced retail environment.
  • Exhibits the Jim Winter Core Values (B.A.S.I.C.S.), below.

Selection Process

  • As part of our commitment to placing people in roles where they will naturally thrive, all applicants will be required to complete a Culture Index survey. This brief assessment helps us understand your unique work style and strengths.
  • Please copy/paste this link or click on it to complete the survey
    • https://go.cultureindex.com/p/Lq1nCf0vDaUncoI0

Compensation & Benefits

  • Total Earning Potential: $85,000 – $150,000+ per year.
  • Structure: Competitive base salary plus a Bi-Annual Bonus based on dealership profitability.
  • Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus a 401(k) plan with company match.
  • Environment: A professional, stable work environment within a family-owned dealership.

Target Start Date

We are looking for the right fit for our team. The start date is flexible, though we prefer to have the position filled on or before August 1, 2026.

Our Core Values: BASICS

At Jim Winter Automotive Group, we pride ourselves on being "Winter-ized." Our culture is built on the BASICS:

  • Boundaryless: We serve our guests' needs over short-term goals and find ways to say "Yes."
  • Accountable: We take responsibility for our careers and company, setting SMART goals to get it right the first time.
  • Service: We create lifelong customers by doing the difficult things other dealers won't.
  • Integrity: We do what is right, not what is easy, and always act in a professional, honest manner.
  • Commitment: We hire the area's best team to provide a "Best in Class" experience.
  • Stability: We bring negatives up and positives down (no gossip) and invest in our team for the long term.