What are the responsibilities and job description for the Reconditioning Manager position at Modern Motorcars?
Modern Motorcars is a premium pre-owned dealership with high standards and a fast-moving inventory pipeline. We’re hiring a Reconditioning Manager to inspect incoming vehicles, build reconditioning plans, and drive each unit to front-line readiness as quickly and accurately as possible. You’ll coordinate internal departments (Service, Collision/Autobody, Detail, Window Tint), manage outside vendors, and direct runners to keep vehicles moving.
This role is hands-on, high-urgency, and requires strong mechanical judgment, organization, and clear communication.
What You’ll Do (Day-to-Day)
Vehicle Intake & Inspection
- Inspect newly acquired vehicles (trade-ins, purchases) and identify mechanical/cosmetic/safety needs
- Document condition and create a clear recon plan and priority list per unit
- Identify “must-fix” items and escalate issues quickly
Reconditioning Planning & Oversight
- Own the recon process from check-in through completion to front-line readiness
- Monitor progress daily using recon software to ensure cost, timing, and quality standards are met
- Adjust priorities quickly when new issues are found and keep everyone aligned on next steps
Problem Solving & Fast Action (Core Skill of the Role)
- Spot delays early (parts, scheduling, vendor backlog, surprise findings) and take immediate action to keep vehicles moving
- Make quick, sound decisions on repair paths (in-house vs. sublet, sequencing, cost vs. time tradeoffs)
- Remove blockers by coordinating approvals, scheduling, transportation, and clear next steps—same day when possible
- Prevent rework by ensuring the right work is done in the right order with clear expectations
Internal Coordination
- Coordinate workflow and scheduling with internal departments: Service, Collision/Autobody, Detail, Window Tint & Wheel Repair
- Ensure handoffs are clean and “definition of done” is met before moving a unit to the next stage
Vendor & Sublet Management
- Manage outside vendors (glass/windshields, PDR, upholstery/interior repairs, specialty sublets, etc.)
- Coordinate sublet scheduling and transportation to/from third-party facilities
- Oversee vendor arbitration when needed and help resolve issues fast and fairly
Inventory Movement & Runner Management
- Direct runners and coordinate the daily shuffle of inventory across departments and vendor locations
- Keep a real-time view of where every vehicle is in the pipeline and what’s blocking it
Systems & Listing Accuracy
- Complete the check-in process in recon software, dealership management systems (DMS)
- Create and maintain accurate vehicle descriptions/listings in inventory software
- Keep notes, photos, and documentation up to date for visibility and accountability
What We’re Looking For
Required
- Strong automotive mechanical knowledge (ability to identify needs and prioritize repairs)
- Extremely organized; able to manage multiple vehicles and moving parts at once
- Fast, practical decision-making in a high-volume environment
- Solid communication skills with technicians, vendors, and leadership
- Computer proficiency (tracking software, email, basic spreadsheets/documentation)
- Valid driver’s license & clean history
Preferred
- Prior dealership recon experience (recon coordinator/manager, service advisor, shop foreman, used car ops)
- Experience coordinating sublets and vendor relationships
- Experience with recon tracking software and/or a DMS
What Success Looks Like
- Faster recon cycle times with minimal idle time
- High-quality, consistent recon outcomes with low rework
- Accurate tracking and clear communication across all departments
- Cost control that protects gross while meeting safety and quality standards
Apply through really with your resume.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $22.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 – 45 per week
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record for insurance purposes?
- This role starts at $22/hour. Does that meet your expectations to move forward?
- Which dealership environments have you worked in?
- How comfortable are you diagnosing common vehicle issues (noise, vibration, warning lights, leaks)?
Work Location: In person