Complete Guide to Automotive Dealership Careers & Job Roles

Corporate Executive Management

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Variations: President, Chief Executive, Executive Director

The highest-ranking executive in a dealership group or large automotive organization, responsible for major corporate decisions, long-term strategy, and overall business direction. The CEO serves as the primary liaison between the board of directors and the organization's operations.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Variations: Finance Director, VP of Finance, Financial Executive

Oversees all financial aspects of the dealership or dealership group, including financial planning, risk management, record-keeping, financial reporting, and data analysis. Particularly important in larger dealership groups with multiple locations and substantial revenue.

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Variations: Director of Operations, Executive VP of Operations

Focuses on day-to-day automotive operations across all departments, implementing strategic goals, and ensuring operational efficiency. In dealership settings, the COO often manages relationships between different departments and locations.

Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)

Variations: VP of Marketing, Marketing Director, Brand Executive

Leads all marketing initiatives, brand development, advertising strategies, and customer acquisition efforts. In larger dealership groups, this role develops cohesive marketing approaches across multiple locations and brands.

Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

Variations: VP of Technology, Technology Director, IT Executive

Oversees all technology systems, digital infrastructure, and technical innovations across the dealership organization. This increasingly important role helps dealerships leverage technology for competitive advantage and operational efficiency.

Chief People Officer (CPO)

Variations: Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), VP of Human Resources

Leads all human resources functions, including talent acquisition, employee development, compensation strategies, and corporate culture initiatives. Critical for larger organizations focused on talent retention and workforce development.

Board and Advisory Roles

Board Chairman

Variations: Chairman of the Board, Board President

Leads the board of directors, provides governance oversight, and works closely with the CEO to establish strategic direction. In publicly traded dealership groups, this role ensures accountability to shareholders.

Board Member

Variations: Director, Non-Executive Director, Trustee

Serves on the board of directors providing strategic guidance, governance oversight, and industry expertise. Board members help with major business decisions and hold management accountable for performance.

Advisory Board Member

Variations: Industry Advisor, Strategic Consultant

Provides specialized industry knowledge, strategic advice, and external perspective without formal governance responsibilities. Many dealership groups utilize advisory boards for their expertise in specific areas like technology or market trends.

Specialized and Emerging Roles

Vehicle Delivery Specialist

Variations: Delivery Coordinator, Technology Specialist, Vehicle Technology Expert

A technology-focused position responsible for thoroughly orienting customers to their new vehicle's features, technology, and operation. This increasingly important role helps customers understand sophisticated vehicle technology and enhances the delivery experience.

Product Specialist

Variations: Product Advisor, Vehicle Expert, Brand Ambassador

Focuses exclusively on product education and demonstration without sales pressure, helping customers understand vehicle features and options. This customer-centric role reflects the shift toward more consultative approaches in automotive retail.

E-Commerce Coordinator

Variations: Digital Retail Specialist, Online Sales Facilitator

Manages the dealership's digital retailing processes, online sales platforms, and virtual customer experiences. As more of the car buying process moves online, this role has become essential for modern dealerships.

Talent Acquisition Specialist

Variations: Recruitment Manager, Staffing Director, Automotive Recruiter

Focuses exclusively on identifying, recruiting, and securing top talent for all dealership positions. This specialized role helps dealerships compete effectively in tight labor markets and build high-performing teams.

Data Analytics Manager

Variations: Business Intelligence Specialist, Performance Analyst

Leverages data to optimize dealership operations, identify trends, and guide strategic decision-making. As dealerships become more data-driven, this role helps translate complex information into actionable business insights.

Sustainability Officer

Variations: Environmental Compliance Manager, Green Initiatives Coordinator

Develops and implements environmentally responsible practices across dealership operations, particularly important for dealerships selling electric and hybrid vehicles. This emerging role helps dealerships align with changing consumer expectations and regulatory requirements.

EV Specialist

Variations: Electric Vehicle Advisor, Alternative Fuel Consultant

Specializes in electric vehicle technology, charging infrastructure, and the unique aspects of EV ownership. This increasingly important role helps dealerships transition into the electric vehicle market and educate consumers about this new technology.

Sales Department

Sales Manager

Variations: Sales Director, Sales Team Leader, VP of Sales

Supervises the sales team, establishes sales goals, manages inventory, and develops sales strategies to maximize profitability and market share. The sales manager position is critical for dealership success and requires strong leadership and motivational skills.

New Car Sales Manager

Variations: New Vehicle Manager, New Car Director, Franchise Brand Manager

Specifically manages new vehicle inventory and the sales team focused on new vehicles. Works closely with manufacturers on allocations and incentive programs. This specialized role requires in-depth knowledge of vehicle technology and manufacturer relationships.

Used Car Manager

Variations: Pre-Owned Vehicle Manager, Used Vehicle Director, Remarketing Manager

Oversees acquisition, reconditioning, pricing, and sales of pre-owned vehicles. Responsible for inventory management and wholesale operations. As the used car market continues to evolve, this role has become increasingly sophisticated and data-driven.

Finance and Insurance (F&I) Manager

Variations: Business Manager, Financial Services Manager, F&I Director

Handles financing arrangements, insurance products, warranty sales, and other aftermarket products. Ensures compliance with lending and insurance regulations. The F&I department is often one of the most profitable areas of a modern dealership.

Sales Consultant

Variations: Sales Representative, Sales Associate, Car Sales Executive, Product Advisor, Brand Specialist

Works directly with customers to match them with appropriate vehicles and negotiate sales. Responsible for product demonstrations and building client relationships. This frontline position requires excellent communication skills and product knowledge.

Internet Sales Manager

Variations: Digital Sales Manager, e-Commerce Manager, Online Sales Director, Virtual Sales Manager

Manages leads and sales originating from online sources. Oversees digital showroom operations and online customer interactions. This technology-focused role has become essential as more car buying begins online.

Internet Sales Coordinator

Variations: Online Sales Specialist, Digital Sales Consultant, e-Commerce Specialist

Handles online inquiries, manages digital leads, and facilitates remote sales processes for customers who prefer online buying experiences. This position helps bridge the gap between digital marketing and in-person sales.

Fleet Sales Manager

Variations: Commercial Sales Director, Corporate Sales Manager, Government Sales Specialist

Specializes in vehicle sales to businesses, government agencies, and other organizations. Develops relationships with corporate clients and manages bulk purchasing agreements.

Business Development Center (BDC) Manager

Variations: Customer Acquisition Manager, Lead Generation Manager, Call Center Manager

Oversees team responsible for generating and qualifying new customer leads. Develops processes for converting inquiries into showroom visits. This department has become increasingly vital as dealerships focus on lead generation strategies.

BDC Representative

Variations: Customer Care Coordinator, Appointment Coordinator, Call Center Representative, BDC Agent

Handles incoming calls, schedules appointments, and manages initial customer contact. Often responsible for lead follow-up and nurturing prospects. This position requires excellent communication skills and attention to detail.

Leasing Specialist

Variations: Lease Consultant, Lease Manager, Leasing Advisor

Specializes in vehicle leasing options and helping customers understand lease terms, residual values, and mileage restrictions. As leasing continues to grow in popularity, this specialized knowledge becomes increasingly valuable.

Delivery Coordinator

Variations: Vehicle Delivery Specialist, Delivery Manager, New Owner Experience Coordinator

Manages the final vehicle delivery process, including explaining features, setting up technology, and ensuring customer satisfaction at the point of delivery. This role has gained importance as vehicle technology becomes more complex.

Finance & Administrative Department

Controller

Variations: Accounting Manager, Financial Controller, Chief Financial Officer (small dealerships)

Manages dealership finances, accounting operations, and financial reporting. Oversees budgeting, cash flow, and ensures compliance with financial regulations. This executive-level position is critical for dealership financial health.

Office Manager

Variations: Administrative Manager, Business Office Manager, Operations Coordinator

Supervises administrative staff and manages day-to-day office operations, including facilities management and general administrative functions. Acts as the operational hub for various dealership activities.

Title Clerk

Variations: Documentation Specialist, Title Processor, DMV Specialist, Vehicle Registration Coordinator

Processes vehicle titles, registrations, and related paperwork. Ensures compliance with state DMV regulations and maintains accurate documentation. This detail-oriented role is essential for completing vehicle transactions.

Accounts Receivable/Payable Specialist

Variations: Accounting Clerk, Bookkeeper, Financial Administrator

Manages billing, payments, and financial record-keeping. Handles vendor relationships and ensures timely processing of financial transactions. This position maintains the financial integrity of dealership operations.

Payroll Administrator

Variations: Payroll Specialist, Compensation Coordinator

Manages employee compensation, processes payroll, tracks commissions, and ensures accurate and timely payment of salaries and bonuses. Particularly important in dealerships with complex commission structures.

Inventory Manager

Variations: Inventory Controller, Stock Manager, Inventory Analyst

Tracks and manages the dealership's vehicle inventory, ensures accurate records, and works with sales and finance to optimize inventory levels and mix. This increasingly analytical role helps maximize inventory turn rates and profitability.

Contracts Manager

Variations: Contracts Administrator, Documentation Manager

Oversees the preparation, review, and processing of sales contracts, ensuring accuracy and compliance with legal requirements. This position helps protect both the dealership and customers through proper documentation.

Service Department

Fixed Operations Director

Variations: Fixed Ops Manager, Service and Parts Director

Oversees all "fixed operations" including service, parts, and body shop departments. Focuses on profitability and operational efficiency of these departments. This senior position manages what is often the most consistently profitable area of the dealership.

Service Manager

Variations: Service Director, Service Operations Manager

Oversees the entire service department including technicians and advisors. Responsible for service department profitability, customer service, and technical operations. This role balances technical expertise with strong business management skills.

Assistant Service Manager

Variations: Service Supervisor, Deputy Service Manager

Assists the Service Manager in daily operations, staff supervision, and customer service functions in the service department. Often serves as a stepping stone to the Service Manager position.

Service Advisor

Variations: Service Consultant, Service Writer, Customer Service Representative, Service Reception

Acts as liaison between customers and technicians, explaining service needs and costs. Manages customer expectations and service scheduling. The service advisor role combines technical knowledge with strong customer communication skills.

Service Technician

Variations: Mechanic, Automotive Technician, Vehicle Service Specialist

Performs diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance on vehicles. May specialize in certain systems or vehicle types. As vehicles become more sophisticated, technician training and certification have become increasingly important.

Master Technician

Variations: Master Mechanic, Certified Master Technician, Level 1 Technician

Highest-level technician with advanced certifications who handles the most complex repairs and diagnostics. Often mentors other technicians and serves as the technical expert within the service department.

Shop Foreman

Variations: Lead Technician, Technical Team Leader, Senior Technician

Supervises technicians and assists with complex technical issues. Ensures efficiency of workflow and quality of repairs in the service bay. This position combines technical expertise with leadership skills.

Express Service Technician

Variations: Quick Service Tech, Lube Technician, Maintenance Specialist

Specializes in routine maintenance like oil changes and quick services. Focuses on high-volume, quick-turnaround services that form the foundation of service department customer retention.

Diagnostic Technician

Variations: Diagnostician, Technical Specialist, Electrical Systems Specialist

Specializes in diagnosing complex vehicle issues using advanced diagnostic equipment and technical knowledge. This high-demand role requires continuous training to keep up with evolving vehicle technology.

Service Dispatcher

Variations: Shop Coordinator, Work Flow Coordinator, Service Bay Manager

Assigns repair orders to technicians based on skill level and workload. Manages service bay efficiency and workflow. This position is crucial for maximizing service department productivity.

Courtesy Shuttle Driver

Variations: Customer Transport Specialist, Courtesy Driver, Shuttle Operator

Provides transportation to customers while their vehicles are being serviced. Represents the dealership during these customer interactions and contributes to the overall service experience.

Service Cashier

Variations: Service Billing Specialist, Service Payments Coordinator

Handles billing and payment processing for service department customers. Often manages the final customer interaction in the service experience and plays a key role in customer service.

Parts Department

Parts Manager

Variations: Parts Director, Parts Department Head, Parts Operations Manager

Manages inventory, ordering, and sales of automotive parts. Responsible for parts department profitability and inventory management. This role requires detailed knowledge of both vehicle components and inventory management principles.

Assistant Parts Manager

Variations: Deputy Parts Manager, Parts Supervisor

Assists the Parts Manager in overseeing department operations, inventory control, and staff supervision. Often serves as a developmental position for future Parts Managers.

Parts Counterperson

Variations: Parts Specialist, Parts Advisor, Parts Sales Representative, Parts Consultant

Assists customers and service technicians with parts identification and sales. Provides technical advice on part compatibility and pricing. This customer-facing role requires both technical knowledge and sales skills.

Parts Inventory Specialist

Variations: Parts Stock Controller, Inventory Analyst

Manages parts inventory levels, conducts physical inventory counts, and ensures optimal stocking levels to meet service and customer demand. This increasingly data-driven role helps maximize parts profitability.

Parts Driver

Variations: Delivery Specialist, Parts Courier, Parts Delivery Representative

Delivers parts to other businesses or picks up parts from vendors. Ensures timely transportation of parts to maintain service operations and support wholesale parts business.

Wholesale Parts Specialist

Variations: Wholesale Parts Representative, External Parts Sales

Specializes in selling parts to external businesses such as independent repair shops, body shops, and other dealerships. This business-to-business role often represents a significant revenue opportunity.

Body Shop/Collision Center

Body Shop Manager

Variations: Collision Center Manager, Body Shop Director

Oversees the collision repair department, manages staff, coordinates with insurance companies, and ensures quality repairs and customer satisfaction. This specialized role often requires certification and specific industry knowledge.

Estimator

Variations: Damage Appraiser, Collision Estimator, Insurance Liaison

Assesses vehicle damage, prepares repair estimates, negotiates with insurance companies, and explains repair processes to customers. This technical role requires specialized training and an understanding of repair procedures.

Body Technician

Variations: Auto Body Specialist, Collision Repair Technician, Panel Beater

Repairs vehicle body damage, including dent removal, panel replacement, and structural repairs. This skilled trade position requires specialized training and certifications.

Paint Technician

Variations: Automotive Painter, Refinish Specialist, Paint Specialist

Prepares vehicles for painting and applies paint finishes that match factory specifications and customer expectations. This highly specialized role combines technical knowledge with artistic skill.

Frame Technician

Variations: Frame Specialist, Structural Repair Technician

Specializes in repairing and aligning vehicle frames and structural components after collision damage. This technical position requires advanced training and specialized equipment knowledge.

Marketing & Digital Department

Marketing Director

Variations: Marketing Manager, Chief Marketing Officer, Brand Manager

Oversees all marketing activities, including advertising, promotions, events, and branding initiatives to drive traffic and sales. This executive-level position shapes the dealership's public image and customer acquisition strategy.

Marketing Coordinator

Variations: Marketing Assistant, Marketing Specialist

Assists with implementation of marketing campaigns, coordinates promotional activities, and helps with day-to-day marketing operations. Often serves as an entry point into automotive marketing careers.

Digital Marketing Manager

Variations: Online Marketing Director, Digital Strategy Manager

Oversees all digital marketing efforts including website, SEO, SEM, social media, and online advertising to drive digital leads and traffic. This increasingly important role bridges technology and marketing expertise.

Social Media Manager

Variations: Social Media Specialist, Social Content Creator, Community Manager

Manages the dealership's presence on social media platforms, creates engaging content, and interacts with customers online. This role has become essential as social media continues to influence car buying decisions.

SEO/SEM Specialist

Variations: Search Marketing Manager, Digital Advertising Specialist

Optimizes the dealership's online presence through search engine optimization and manages paid search marketing campaigns. This technical marketing role drives online visibility and lead generation.

Content Marketing Specialist

Variations: Content Creator, Content Strategist, Automotive Writer

Creates valuable content for the dealership's website, blog, email campaigns, and social media to attract and engage customers. This role helps position the dealership as an industry authority and information resource.

Email Marketing Specialist

Variations: Email Campaign Manager, CRM Marketing Specialist

Develops and implements email marketing strategies to nurture leads, retain customers, and promote dealership offerings. This specialized role leverages customer data to create targeted communications.

Videographer/Photographer

Variations: Visual Content Creator, Media Specialist

Creates professional photo and video content of inventory and dealership events for marketing purposes. As visual content becomes increasingly important, this role helps the dealership stand out online.

Inventory Photographer

Variations: Vehicle Photographer, Product Photographer

Specifically focuses on photographing vehicle inventory for online listings and promotional materials. This specialized role helps showcase inventory in its best light to attract online shoppers.

Web Manager

Variations: Webmaster, Website Administrator, Online Presence Manager

Manages the dealership's website, ensuring functionality, user experience, and integration with inventory management systems. This technology role is critical for the dealership's digital storefront.

CRM Administrator

Variations: CRM Manager, Database Manager, Customer Data Specialist

Manages the customer relationship management system, ensuring data integrity and optimizing its use for sales and marketing purposes. This increasingly important role helps dealerships leverage customer data effectively.

Analytics Specialist

Variations: Data Analyst, Marketing Analyst, Performance Metrics Specialist

Analyzes marketing and sales data to measure performance, identify trends, and guide strategic decision-making. This data-focused role helps dealerships make more informed business decisions.

Event Coordinator

Variations: Special Events Manager, Promotional Events Specialist

Plans and executes dealership events, customer appreciation activities, and community engagement initiatives. This role helps build brand awareness and customer relationships through in-person experiences.

Customer Experience Department

Customer Experience Manager

Variations: Client Relations Manager, Customer Service Director

Oversees all aspects of customer experience throughout the dealership, ensuring consistent service quality and customer satisfaction. This role has gained prominence as dealerships focus more on customer retention and lifetime value.

Customer Relations Specialist

Variations: Client Care Specialist, Customer Advocate

Handles customer concerns, resolves issues, and maintains positive relationships with customers throughout their ownership experience. This role focuses on turning potential negative experiences into positive ones.

Customer Follow-up Coordinator

Variations: Customer Care Coordinator, Satisfaction Survey Manager

Conducts post-sale and post-service follow-up to ensure customer satisfaction and address any concerns. This proactive role helps identify and resolve issues before they escalate.

Brand Ambassador

Variations: Product Specialist, Vehicle Technology Expert

Educates customers about vehicle features and technology, often providing support after the sale to enhance the ownership experience. As vehicles become more complex, this role helps bridge the knowledge gap for customers.

Support & Facilities Staff

Receptionist

Variations: Front Desk Coordinator, Greeter, Customer Welcome Specialist

Welcomes customers, directs calls, and provides initial point of contact at the dealership. Often responsible for creating a positive first impression and setting the tone for the customer experience.

Cashier

Variations: Billing Specialist, Payment Processor

Handles customer payments for sales and service. Manages cash, credit card, and financing payment processing. This position ensures accurate financial transactions and a smooth conclusion to customer interactions.

Detail Manager

Variations: Reconditioning Manager, Appearance Manager, Detail Department Head

Oversees the detailing department and quality of vehicle appearance. Manages preparation of vehicles for sale and delivery. This department contributes significantly to customer first impressions of vehicles.

Detailer

Variations: Appearance Technician, Vehicle Preparation Specialist, Reconditioning Technician

Cleans, polishes, and prepares vehicles for sale or delivery. Ensures vehicles meet appearance standards. This hands-on role requires attention to detail and quality standards.

Lot Attendant

Variations: Porter, Lot Porter, Lot Technician, Vehicle Movement Specialist

Moves vehicles around the dealership, helps with deliveries, and maintains lot appearance. Often assists with customer vehicle retrieval. This entry-level position often serves as a starting point for automotive careers.

Quality Control Inspector

Variations: Pre-Delivery Inspector (PDI), Vehicle Quality Specialist

Performs final inspection of vehicles before customer delivery. Ensures all features function properly and vehicle meets quality standards. This critical role helps prevent customer dissatisfaction and delivery issues.

Warranty Administrator

Variations: Warranty Processor, Warranty Clerk, Claims Administrator

Processes warranty claims and communicates with manufacturers. Ensures proper documentation and reimbursement for warranty work. This specialized administrative role requires attention to detail and manufacturer-specific knowledge.

Facilities Manager

Variations: Building Maintenance Manager, Property Manager

Oversees maintenance and operation of dealership facilities, including buildings, grounds, and infrastructure. This role ensures the dealership's physical environment supports operations and presents well to customers.

Security Personnel

Variations: Security Officer, Loss Prevention Specialist

Provides security for the dealership premises, inventory, and personnel. May monitor surveillance systems and patrol the property. This role protects the substantial investment represented by dealership inventory.

IT Manager

Variations: Information Technology Director, Systems Administrator

Manages the dealership's technology infrastructure, including computer systems, networks, and software applications. As dealerships become increasingly digitized, this role has grown in strategic importance.

DMS Administrator

Variations: Dealership Management System Specialist, Software Administrator

Manages and optimizes the dealership management software that integrates various dealership operations. This specialized technology role ensures critical dealership systems function effectively.

Specialty Departments

Commercial Vehicle Specialist

Variations: Fleet Consultant, Commercial Truck Specialist

Specializes in commercial vehicles and understanding the specific needs of business customers. Helps with spec'ing vehicles for work applications. This niche role serves an important business-to-business segment.

Accessories Manager

Variations: Accessories Department Head, Customization Manager

Oversees the sale and installation of vehicle accessories and customization options. Manages the accessories department staff and inventory. This profit center helps increase vehicle transaction values and customer satisfaction.

Accessories Installer

Variations: Aftermarket Specialist, Vehicle Personalization Technician

Installs aftermarket accessories and customization products on vehicles. Works with customers to enhance their vehicles with additional features. This technical role combines mechanical skills with customization expertise.

Rental Manager

Variations: Loaner Fleet Coordinator, Courtesy Vehicle Manager

Manages the dealership's rental or loaner vehicle fleet, coordinates vehicle availability, and ensures proper maintenance of rental inventory. This customer service role enhances the service department experience.

Training Director

Variations: Staff Development Manager, Educational Services Manager

Develops and implements training programs for dealership staff. Ensures employees maintain current product knowledge and skills. This role has become increasingly important as vehicles and sales processes grow more complex.

Business Development Manager

Variations: Strategic Growth Manager, New Business Development Director

Identifies and develops new business opportunities and revenue streams for the dealership. May focus on expanding into new markets or services. This forward-looking role helps dealerships adapt to changing market conditions.