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Dealership Controller Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

Murphy-Hoffman Company

Inventory Controller

Norcross, GA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Job Details Job Title Inventory Controller Business Function Parts Branch Name MHC Kenworth ... Experience dealing with the public in sales/service capacity. * Ability to lift 50 pounds.

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All JobsDealership Controller JobsDealership Controller Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Dealership Controller information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$52.9K

$114.9K

$168.8K

How much do dealership controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for dealership controller in Atlanta, GA is $114,915.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,300.00 and $133,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 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 typically requires extensive accounting experience and may involve supervising staff, making it a high-level position in the dealership's organizational structure.
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Dealership Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dealership Controller job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,915 per year, or $55.2 per hour.

Dealership Controller / Accounting Manager (QuickBooks Enterprise - Automotive Required)

Peak Performance Team

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Dealership Controller / Accounting Manager (QuickBooks Enterprise - Automotive Required)
Location: Marietta, GA
About the Role
We are a growing independent car dealership seeking a hands-on, experienced Dealership Controller / Accounting Manager with strong expertise in QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise and inventory accounting.
This is not a basic bookkeeping role - we are looking for someone who understands dealership operations, can own the financials end-to-end, and help bring structure, accuracy, and accountability to the business.
Key Responsibilities
  • Full ownership of QuickBooks Enterprise (Desktop) including setup, maintenance, and reporting
  • Manage dealership inventory accounting (vehicle purchases, sales, cost tracking, floorplan if applicable)
  • Oversee Accounts Payable & Accounts Receivable processes
  • Perform daily, weekly, and monthly reconciliations (bank, credit cards, inventory, etc.)
  • Prepare and analyze P&L, Balance Sheet, and cash flow reports
  • Identify discrepancies and proactively resolve accounting issues
  • Handle sales tax, TAVT filings, and dealership compliance requirements
  • Oversee payroll processing and payroll taxes
  • Work with ownership on financial insights, reporting, and process improvements
  • Manage and support office staff (15-20 employees) as needed
✅ Required Qualifications (Strict)
  • 5+ years of accounting/bookkeeping experience in a car dealership
  • Expert-level QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise (REQUIRED - not QuickBooks Online)
  • Strong understanding of inventory accounting
  • Experience with sales tax, TAVT, and dealership paperwork/processes
  • Advanced Excel skills (reporting, analysis, reconciliations)
  • Ability to work independently and take full ownership of accounting functions
⭐ Preferred (Big Plus)
  • Experience with multi-entity businesses
  • Prior role as Controller, Accounting Manager, or Full-Charge Bookkeeper
  • Experience with floorplan financing
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive salary based on experience ($70K-$90K+ for the right candidate)
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Long-term growth opportunity within a stable and expanding dealership
⚡ Who This Role Is For
This role is ideal for someone who:
  • Has worked inside a dealership and understands how things actually operate
  • Is tired of corporate environments and wants ownership + impact
  • Can bring structure and discipline to accounting processes
Who Should NOT Apply
  • Candidates without QuickBooks Enterprise (Desktop) experience
  • Candidates without dealership or inventory accounting experience

If you meet the above criteria and are looking for a long-term opportunity where your expertise will be valued, we encourage you to apply.

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