Car Dealership Jobs Overview
When mentioning car dealership jobs, the first role that probably comes to mind is that of a salesperson, helping customers evaluate car options. However, that’s just the most well-known of the many positions that allow this type of business to function.
A car dealership workforce is usually comprised of the following roles:
- General manager - This figure is responsible for the car dealership’s overall activity. They can be the owner or simply report to them.
- Sales representatives - They are in charge of helping you find the perfect car for your needs and closing the deal.
- Finance manager - Their job is to walk you through the paperwork necessary to buy a car.
- Auto body technicians - They are the mechanics working in the parts and service department.
- Customer service representative/receptionist - They greet you when you enter the car dealership and are responsible for directing you to the right person.
- Lot manager - They organize the car inventory on the dealership property.
- HR and payroll manager - They organize employees’ working schedules, plan team meetings, and calculate and schedule worker payments.
Not sure this is the right career path for you? Have a look at other sales jobs such as these popular ones:
Education and Skills for Car Dealership Jobs
The requirements to obtain car dealership jobs depend on the specific role you are seeking. While for receptionists and other entry-level positions, a high school diploma is usually enough, in the case of accountants, finance managers and salespeople, a bachelor’s degree is likely needed.
Mechanics and other members of the automotive service team, on the other hand, generally follow a vocational education program, an apprenticeship or even an associate degree to acquire the expertise needed. Finally, for every role in which you might have to operate a car, you’ll also have to hold a valid driver’s license.
Whether you’re going to be a car salesman, an automobile technician or something else, to be successful in a car dealership environment you should also possess:
- customer service orientation
- interpersonal skills
- ability to work under pressure
- communication skills
- computer skills
- good teamwork
Update Your Resume for a Car Dealership Job
If you found a car dealership role that you are excited to apply for, it’s time to get to work and prepare your resume. If you’ve never written one before, you might find it easier to take one of our resume templates and customize it with your information. Either way, focus on building a document that is easy to navigate and read, both for a recruiter and applicant tracking systems (ATS).
To increase your visibility, also swap simple task descriptions to quantifiable achievements with numbers and percentages. Adding relevant keywords, which you can find in the job opening, is the final touch to make your resume shine. Finally, pair it with a persuasive cover letter in which you give voice to your aspirations and career goals.
Interviewing for a Car Dealership Job
If your job application earned you a callback, congratulations! Start working on your interview preparation to be memorable to the hiring manager. First, read our tips to improve your interview performance. Then, practice your answers for the most common questions such as “why should we hire you?”, or “why do you want to work here?”
Pay particular attention to behavioral questions as well. Finally, ask questions yourself. You’ll understand better what the job entails and be able to clarify any details that matter to you.
How Much Do Car Dealership Jobs Pay?
The salaries of car dealership workers depend on many factors including their specific role, experience, location, and in many cases the target bonuses too. Below you can find the most common roles in a car dealership and their average wages:
You can see an estimated salary for every position in any city you like, by simply using with Monster’s Salary Tool. We’ll also provide you with the locations where those roles are in most in-demand, plus ideas on valuable skills to advance in your field.
Want to Learn More About a Company You’re Interested In?
Should you work for a locally owned dealership, one that has a national presence, or an international one? Each of these has great selling points that could meet your needs. Compare all the options by browsing through Monster’s company profiles. You’ll be able to take a more informed decision after learning about:
- company histories
- employee benefit packages
- business headquarters and local offices
Ready, Set, Go! Find Your Next Car Dealership Jobs with Monster in No Time
Can’t wait to be part of a team that helps people buy their dream cars? Just set up an account on Monster and upload your resume. Scan the offers or simply turn on customized alerts to receive a heads-up whenever new jobs in your field are available. We’ll also boost your chances by promoting your profile to partner companies and recruiters.