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Dealership Controller Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Dealership

Be Seen First

Controller

Baytown, TX · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Fully On-Site Job Summary Agency 8 is partnering with an established equipment dealership to hire a Controller who will oversee all accounting operations across multiple divisions, with a strong ...

ZT Auto

Controller

Houston, TX · On-site

Review all dealership schedules monthly and make necessary corrections and adjustments. * Partner ... Multi-store Controller experience required. * Expert-level CDK DMS experience required (non ...

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All JobsDealership Controller JobsDealership Controller Jobs in Texas

Dealership Controller information

See Texas salary details

$51.2K

$111.3K

$163.5K

How much do dealership controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for dealership controller in Texas is $111,330.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,400.00 and $129,000.00 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.
More about Dealership Controller jobs
What are popular job titles related to Dealership Controller jobs in Texas? For Dealership Controller jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in Texas are hiring for Dealership Controller jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Dealership Controller job openings:
Dealership Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dealership Controller job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,330 per year, or $53.5 per hour.
Controller - Dealership Operations

Controller - Dealership Operations

Principle Auto

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Principle Automotive

Dealership Controller - Dealership Operations

Lead Financial Operations for One of Texas' Premier Luxury Automotive Groups

Principle Automotive is seeking an experienced and people-focused Dealership Controller to join our high-volume luxury dealership team in San Antonio, Texas.

This is an opportunity for a strong automotive accounting leader to step into a highly visible role supporting multiple dealership operations, financial reporting, compliance, and accounting team development within a growing organization known for its culture, integrity, and operational excellence.

The ideal candidate is operationally strong, detail-oriented, and relationship-driven, someone who can lead teams, partner with dealership leadership, drive accountability, and create accurate, timely financial reporting while fostering a positive and professional culture.

If you are an experienced automotive Controller or Office Manager ready to grow your career with a stable and values-driven organization, we want to meet you.

Why Join Principle Automotive?
  • High-volume luxury dealership environment
  • Multi-dealership operational exposure
  • Collaborative executive leadership team
  • Stable and growing automotive group
  • Strong culture focused on people and relationships
  • Opportunity to lead and develop accounting teams
  • Career growth and advancement opportunities
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package

Apply