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Repo Cars Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Repo Cars information

See California salary details

$8

$21

$36

How much do repo cars jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for repo cars in California is $21.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.71 and $23.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a repo car?

Repo cars, short for repossessed cars, are vehicles that have been reclaimed by lenders or banks after the previous owners defaulted on their auto loans. Once repossessed, these cars are typically sold at auctions, dealerships, or through direct sales to recover the outstanding loan amounts. Repo cars can often be purchased at lower prices compared to traditional used cars, but buyers should be aware that these vehicles are usually sold as-is and may require repairs or maintenance. It's important to inspect the car thoroughly and check its history before making a purchase.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a repossession agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Repossession Agent, you need a valid driver's license, knowledge of repossession laws, and basic mechanical skills, often supported by on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with GPS tracking systems, skip tracing software, and secure towing equipment is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and resilience under stress help you interact with clients and handle challenging situations effectively. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, legal, and efficient recovery of vehicles while maintaining professionalism and compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in repossession (repo) car roles, and how can they be managed?

Professionals working in car repossession often encounter challenges such as dealing with difficult or confrontational situations, working irregular hours, and managing the logistics of locating and retrieving vehicles. Effective communication skills, strong situational awareness, and a calm demeanor are essential for handling interactions with vehicle owners. Additionally, repo agents often work closely with lenders, tow truck operators, and legal teams, so the ability to collaborate and follow strict procedures is crucial for both safety and compliance.

What is the difference between Repo Cars vs Car Dealerships?

AspectRepo CarsCar Dealerships
CredentialsRepossessed vehicle specialists may not require formal certifications but need knowledge of repossession lawsSales professionals often need sales licenses or certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, often on-site at repossession locationsShowroom and office settings, customer interactions
Industry UsageRepossession companies, auto financeNew and used car sales, leasing
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding repossessed vehicle optionsBuying new or used cars

Repo Cars involve recovering vehicles for lenders or owners, often requiring fieldwork and legal knowledge. Car Dealerships focus on selling vehicles directly to consumers in a showroom environment. While both are part of the automotive industry, they serve different roles and customer needs.

How do you become a repo cars driver?

To become a repo cars driver, you typically need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and sometimes a background check. Experience in driving or repossession is helpful, and some employers may require specialized training or certification in repossession procedures. The job often involves working flexible hours and following legal protocols for vehicle recovery.

What are popular job titles related to Repo Cars jobs in California?

For Repo Cars jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Repo Cars job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,906 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Automotive Payroll & HR Specialist- 7+yrs Dealer Payroll/HR Exp Req'd - $90k to $110k+/yr!

Capitol Nissan

San Jose, CA

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Process accurate and timely payroll for dealership employees

  • Review timecards, commissions, bonuses, deductions, and payroll adjustments

  • Manage employee onboarding, offboarding, and maintain employee records


Job description

NOW SEEKING an experienced franchise Automotive Dealer Payroll & HR Specialist in San Jose, CA.

  • Earn from $90,000 to $110,000+/yr! (based on experience)

Capitol Nissan in San Jose, CA is seeking an experienced Payroll & HR Specialist for our busy accounting department.  If you have experience in a franchise dealership setting and understand the processes of dealership payroll, Apply Now!

We Offer:

  • Earn from $90,000 to $110,000+/yr! (based on experience)

  • 5 Day Work Week with Flexible Hours (8am to 5pm or 9am to 6pm)

  • 401k Plan

  • Paid Time Off 

  • Health Insurance

  • Dental Insurance

  • Vision Insurance

  • Life Insurance

  • Employee Discounts

  • Professional Development Assistance

  • A Wonderful, Positive and Professional Work Environment

  • Opportunities to advance & grow with a family-owned and operated business!

Responsibilities:

  • Process accurate and timely payroll for dealership employees (approx 80-90 staff)

  • Review timecards, commissions, bonuses, deductions, and payroll adjustments

  • Maintain employee payroll and personnel records

  • Manage employee onboarding and offboarding

  • Coordinate new-hire paperwork, I-9 documentation, and required employment forms

  • Assist with benefits enrollment, employee changes, and terminations

  • Handle Workers’ Compensation and leave-of-absence administration

  • Maintain compliance with California employment and wage-and-hour requirements

  • Respond to employee payroll and HR-related question

  • Assist management with employee relations and documentation

  • Maintain confidentiality of employee, payroll, and company information

  • Coordinate with accounting and dealership management as needed

  • Assist with HR reporting, audits, and other administrative responsibilities

What We Seek:

  • Franchise Dealership Experience REQUIRED - Experience with dealership payroll structures, including commissions, bonuses, spiffs, technician flag hours, and other variable compensation

  • 7+ years proven experience in a Payroll, Accounting or HR Administrative Support Role

  • Thorough understanding of California and Federal payroll laws, tax regulations, and labor compliance

  • Good computer skills. Familiar with payroll software, Excel, and Microsoft Office

  • Experience working with payroll/HRIS systems

  • ADP Payroll Plus software experience is a PLUS

  • Experience with payroll processing, benefits administration, and maintaining employee records

  • Knowledge of employee benefits administration

  • High attention to detail and accuracy

  • Strong organizational skills, ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced dealership environment

  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written

  • Strong analytical and problem solving skills

  • Ability to work independently and meet payroll deadlines

  • Confidentiality and Professionalism

  • Must be reliable, dependable, responsible, and must take accountability

  • Must possess a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

All those interested should APPLY and call 855-931-2448 so we may speak with you to set up a face-to-face interview. ABSOLUTELY NO WALK-INS! YOU MUST SET AN APPOINTMENT.

For convenience, all interviews will be conducted at our Indianola location at:

Capitol Nissan

1120 Capitol Expressway Auto Mall

San Jose, CA 95136

  • Must be Authorized to Work in the US

  • Drug Free Workplace

  • Equal Opportunity Employer

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