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Dealership Controller Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Consultation with dealership management and executive leadership * Training of current Controller, staff accountants, admin staff * Acting as Controller as needed * Analyzing and fixing DMS issues

Dealership Mechanic

Bristol, TN ยท On-site

$19.46 - $36.43/hr

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 ...

Dealership Mechanic

Piney Flats, TN ยท On-site

$19.46 - $36.43/hr

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 ...

Dealership Mechanic

Kingsport, TN ยท On-site

$19.46 - $36.43/hr

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 ...

Dealership Mechanic

Manchester, TN ยท On-site

$26 - $33.50/hr

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 ...

Dealership Mechanic

Germantown, TN ยท On-site

$18 - $35.40/hr

This is more than a job-it's an opportunity to love what you do in a clean, modern, climate-controlled environment designed for success. At CarMax, you'll use your technical expertise to diagnose ...

Dealership Mechanic

Millington, TN ยท On-site

$18 - $35.40/hr

This is more than a job-it's an opportunity to love what you do in a clean, modern, climate-controlled environment designed for success. At CarMax, you'll use your technical expertise to diagnose ...

Dealership Mechanic

Johnson City, TN ยท On-site

$19.46 - $36.43/hr

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 ...

Dealership Mechanic

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$18 - $35.40/hr

This is more than a job-it's an opportunity to love what you do in a clean, modern, climate-controlled environment designed for success. At CarMax, you'll use your technical expertise to diagnose ...

Dealership Mechanic

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$18 - $35.40/hr

This is more than a job-it's an opportunity to love what you do in a clean, modern, climate-controlled environment designed for success. At CarMax, you'll use your technical expertise to diagnose ...

Dealership Mechanic

Millington, TN ยท On-site

$18 - $35.40/hr

This is more than a job-it's an opportunity to love what you do in a clean, modern, climate-controlled environment designed for success. At CarMax, you'll use your technical expertise to diagnose ...

Dealership Mechanic

Manchester, TN ยท On-site

$26 - $33.50/hr

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 ...

Dealership Mechanic

Germantown, TN ยท On-site

$18 - $35.40/hr

This is more than a job-it's an opportunity to love what you do in a clean, modern, climate-controlled environment designed for success. At CarMax, you'll use your technical expertise to diagnose ...

Showing results 21-40

Dealership Controller information

See Tennessee salary details

$49.9K

$108.5K

$159.3K

How much do dealership controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for dealership controller in Tennessee is $108,457.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,000.00 and $125,700.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Dealership Controller jobs in Tennessee? For Dealership Controller jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Dealership Controller jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Dealership Controller job openings:
Infographic showing various Dealership Controller job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,457 per year, or $52.1 per hour.

Automotive Accountant

HHM CPAs

Chattanooga, TN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Dealership Accountant

HHM CPAs is searching for a very specific type of accounting professional. We are looking for someone that has 5+ years in the automotive industry, working inside a dealership and handling all aspects of the dealership accounting duties.

Preferred experience in a large dealership group is desired. Having experience in public accounting is a PLUS, but not required.

This is an on-site position. Relocation is available.

This position will travel 50% of the time.

Responsibilities:

  • Consultation with dealership management and executive leadership
  • Training of current Controller, staff accountants, admin staff
  • Acting as Controller as needed
  • Analyzing and fixing DMS issues
  • Analyzing various aspects of parts department, inventory, sales, etc
  • Gross reconciliations
  • Training on cleaning schedules
  • Preparing books for year end tax returns
  • Creating and implementing accounting process, procedures, and best practices

HHM CPAs is a leading 300+ person firm with locations in Chattanooga, Memphis, and Cleveland, Tennessee. To become our clients' most trusted business advisor, we work to understand their needs and provide the highest quality accounting, tax, and consulting services.

HHM creates a positive work environment that encourages our employees to reach their full potential while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Community is at that center of all we do. Whether outwardly serving the regions we call home or inwardly hosting our annual chili cook off and holiday parties, HHM is a welcoming and innovative workplace we would love for you to be part of.