Automotive Service Manager

Service Manager Sonoma/Marin County

Compensation: $96,000–$180,000 per year Job Type: Full-Time

About the Opportunity We are seeking an experienced, results-driven Service Manager to lead our dealership's service department. As a growing dealership, we are looking for a strong leader who can build a high-performing team, deliver an exceptional customer experience, and drive continued growth while maintaining a profitable and efficient service operation. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with a strong understanding of automotive dealership service operations, financial performance, and team development. This individual will be responsible for growing service revenue, improving departmental profitability, increasing customer retention, and developing a culture of accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence. The successful candidate will be expected to run a profitable service department while identifying and executing opportunities to drive growth as we continue to expand.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage daily service department operations, including service advisors, technicians, and support personnel.
• Drive departmental profitability, revenue growth, and overall financial performance while maintaining high standards of customer satisfaction and service quality.
• Develop and execute strategies to grow service business, increase customer retention, attract new customers, and maximize opportunities within the dealership's existing customer base.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators, including labor sales, gross profit, hours per repair order, technician productivity, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Manage departmental expenses, labor costs, staffing levels, and operational resources to achieve financial objectives.
• Recruit, train, coach, and develop service department personnel, building a team focused on performance, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
• Deliver an outstanding customer experience through timely communication, accurate repair recommendations, and effective resolution of customer concerns.
• Oversee scheduling, workflow, shop capacity, and repair order processes to maximize productivity and efficiency.
• Work collaboratively with dealership leadership, the parts department, and other teams to support overall dealership growth and profitability.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal, California, and local laws and regulations, dealership policies, and manufacturer service standards.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and professional service facility.
• Implement processes and performance standards that support sustainable growth, employee development, and long-term customer loyalty.

Qualifications

• Previous automotive dealership service management experience preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to manage a profitable service department and achieve financial performance goals.
• Proven leadership skills, with the ability to motivate, develop, and hold a team accountable for results.
• Strong understanding of dealership service operations, repair order management, labor sales, gross profit, and departmental financial statements.
• Experience identifying opportunities to increase revenue, improve customer retention, and grow service department business.
• Excellent customer service, communication, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to analyze performance metrics and implement effective operational improvements.
• Proficiency with dealership management systems and service department technology preferred.
• Commitment to ethical business practices, workplace safety, and customer satisfaction.
• Valid driver's license and ability to meet applicable dealership driving requirements.

Compensation and Benefits The anticipated annual compensation range for this position is $96,000–$180,000, depending on qualifications, relevant experience, skills, and the applicable compensation structure. Benefits available include:

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan

Additional benefit details and eligibility requirements will be provided during the hiring process and are subject to the applicable benefit plan terms. The compensation structure and any applicable performance-based incentives will be explained during the hiring process. Work Environment and Physical Requirements This position operates in an automotive dealership service environment and may require time in the service drive, repair shop, and office. The role may involve standing, walking, communicating with customers and employees, and occasional lifting or other physical activities consistent with dealership operations. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities, as required by applicable law. Equal Employment Opportunity We are an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, California, or local law. We welcome qualified applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process, consistent with applicable law. California Pay Transparency In accordance with California law, we provide the anticipated pay scale for this position. Actual compensation will depend on job-related factors, including qualifications, experience, skills, and the applicable compensation structure.