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Dealership Controller Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Humetis Group

Controller - Automotive

Roanoke, VA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Automotive Controller to lead the financial operations of our dealership. This role is essential to ensuring accurate financial reporting, maintaining compliance, and ...

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Dealership Controller information

See Virginia salary details

$54.5K

$118.5K

$174K

How much do dealership controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for dealership controller in Virginia is $118,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,200.00 and $137,300.00 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.
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Dealership Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dealership Controller job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% As Needed, 68% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $118,472 per year, or $57 per hour.

Automotive Controller

Sheehy Auto Stores (VINCO)

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Join Sheehy Auto Stores as an Automotive Controller – Maryland Area

Sheehy Auto Stores is seeking an experienced Automotive Controller to lead our dealership accounting and financial operations in the Maryland area. As one of the country's Top 30 private automotive dealer groups, we are committed to excellence, integrity, and the development of exceptional talent.

If you have a strong background in dealership accounting and are looking for a stable leadership opportunity with a respected organization, we invite you to join our team. This key leadership role offers a competitive salary, bonus potential, outstanding benefits, and opportunities for long-term career growth within our growing automotive group.

Apply today and take your career to the next level!

Responsibilities:

  • Oversee financial reporting, cash flow, budgeting, and forecasting 
  • Manage operational accounting: receivables, payables, reconciliations, month-end close 
  • Ensure compliance with internal controls and accounting standards 
  • Support profitability, cost control, and inventory management 
  • Partner with leadership to drive financial performance 

Requirements:

  • 3+ years of Automotive Controller experience at a franchised dealership (required) 
  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting/Finance (preferred) 
  • Strong dealership accounting knowledge; Reynolds & Reynolds experience a plus 
  • Detail-oriented, strong communicator, thrives in a fast-paced environment 

Benefits:

  • Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance
  • Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave (after one year of employment)
  • Earn Paid Time Off (PTO) starting on your first day
  • Paid Training & Career Advancement Opportunities
  • 401(K) and Profit Sharing

Sheehy Auto Stores is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

Apply