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Dealership Controller Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

We are offering a 3-month contract employment opportunity for a Non‐Profit Controller in ... This role will be hybrid onsite (2 days a week) and is critical to our operations, dealing with ...

Plant Controller

Mankato, MN · On-site

$106K - $131K/yr

Plant Controller We are searching for an experienced; Plant Controller for Mankato, MN plant ... Planning Dealing with Ambiguity Managing/Growing Direct Reports Comfort Around Top Management ...

Plant Controller

Mankato, MN · On-site

$106K - $131K/yr

The Plant Controller will be responsible for their respective plant P&L and Balance Sheet creation ... Dealing with Ambiguity * Managing/growing Direct Reports * Comfort Around Top Management * Customer ...

Job Summary The Table Games Dealer is responsible for dealing and controlling assigned card games accurately in accordance with department and company policies and standing operating procedures, and ...

Host- Controller

Eden Prairie, MN · On-site

$15 - $22/hr

Use tact and good judgement when dealing with guest challenges and respond to guest needs with patience and courtesy * Assist with clearing, cleaning and resetting tables and maintain restrooms

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Dealership Controller information

See Minnesota salary details

$53.9K

$117K

$171.9K

How much do dealership controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for dealership controller in Minnesota is $117,036.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,000.00 and $135,600.00 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 controller do at a dealership?

A dealership controller is responsible for managing the financial operations of the dealership, including accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance. They oversee the accuracy of financial records, prepare reports for management, and ensure adherence to industry regulations, often using accounting software and requiring strong analytical skills.

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 accounting software are essential, and some roles may require professional certifications such as CPA or CMA. Gaining experience in dealership finance departments and developing leadership abilities are important steps toward this role.

What is the highest paying job in a car dealership?

In a car dealership, the highest paying role is typically the General Manager or Dealer Principal, who oversees all operations and profits. These positions often earn six-figure salaries, with compensation influenced by dealership size, location, and performance, and may include bonuses and profit sharing. Other high-paying roles include Finance Directors and Service Managers with extensive experience and leadership responsibilities.

Is a controller a high 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 strong accounting skills and experience in financial management. The role often reports directly to the general manager or owner and involves significant responsibility and decision-making authority.

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 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.
What are popular job titles related to Dealership Controller jobs in Minnesota? For Dealership Controller jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dealership Controller jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Dealership Controller jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Dealership Controller jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Dealership Controller job openings:
Infographic showing various Dealership Controller job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,036 per year, or $56.3 per hour.

Dealership Controller

W.D. Larson

Saint Louis Park, MN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Allstate Peterbilt Group is dedicated to serving the Medium and Heavy Duty Truck and Trailer Industry throughout the Midwest. From the beginning of the vehicle purchase process, through the warranty repairs and on-going vehicle maintenance, our team of dedicated and highly skilled professionals work diligently to keep our customers trucks on the road running smoothly.

The role of the working Controller is to assist in the preparation and distribution of internal and external financial statements and reports, perform diversified and complex accounting transactions, and the design, implementation and evaluation of internal controls at our corporate location.

Dealership Controller Responsibilities:
Assists in all phases of the closing and reporting functions, including preparing journal entries, analyzing and reconciling general ledger accounts, and analyzing variances in income statement and balance sheet accounts on a monthly basis.
Applies principles of accounting to analyze financial information and prepare financial reports.
Floor Plan reconciliations
Research accounting rules and regulations and prepare accounting memorandums documenting company policy. Ensures compliance with corporate accounting policies and procedures.
Multi-state sales tax preparation and payments
Aid in the development and documentation of internal controls.
Recommend improvements, adaptations, or revisions in the accounting system and procedures.
Prepare audit schedules for annual, external audit.
Cash Management and bank account reconciliations
Work in process entries
Assists with aspects of fixed asset accounting and reporting such as reconciling fixed asset balances.
Perform other duties as assigned by manager, including assistance with special projects and ad hoc reporting requests.

Dealership Controller Qualifications:
Accounting in dealership Environment preferred.
One to 2 years experience in accounting or financial statement preparation preferred.
Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles.
Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills.
Highly organized individual with a commitment to consistent attention to details, meeting deadlines, and strong analytical skills.
Flexibility and adaptability to assume additional responsibilities and accommodate report requests from management.

Dealership Controller Benefits:

16 days PTO plus holidays available during first year of employment
Immediate transition into new health insurance coverage
Three different medical plans designed to fit your needs
FSA/HSA plans to help with medical and childcare reimbursement
Dental and Vision Insurance plans
Short and Long-Term Disability
Supplemental Term Life Insurance and other co-insurance options
401(k) with Match
Multiple Tuition Reimbursement programs and scholarship opportunities
Extensive in-house training
Health and wellness benefits
Doctor on Demand mobile app
Verizon wireless employee discounts
Multiple dealership locations to allow for relocation opportunities
Endless advancement opportunities throughout the company

Allstate Peterbilt Group is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, Minority, Female, Veteran, and Disability employer. The company is also a drug-free workplace; candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.

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