Vehicle Inspector & Buyer (Automotive Acquisition Specialist)

STG Auto Group is one of Southern California’s leading automotive groups. Our Vehicle Acquisition Center specializes in purchasing vehicles directly from the public, and we are seeking an experienced Vehicle Inspector & Buyer (Automotive Acquisition Specialist) to join our growing team.

This position combines automotive inspection, vehicle appraisal, and customer-focused acquisition responsibilities. The ideal candidate has a strong automotive background, excellent evaluation skills, negotiation ability, and the customer service skills needed to guide vehicle sellers through a professional and transparent purchasing experience.

Position Summary

The Vehicle Inspector & Buyer is responsible for inspecting, evaluating, and purchasing vehicles from private sellers. This role requires strong knowledge of vehicle condition assessment, automotive systems, market values, ownership documentation, and the ability to complete purchase transactions efficiently.

The successful candidate will inspect vehicles, determine accurate valuations, verify ownership documentation, negotiate purchase offers, and provide an exceptional customer experience throughout the acquisition process.

ResponsibilitiesVehicle Inspection & Appraisal

• Perform comprehensive vehicle inspections to evaluate overall condition and value.
• Identify and document:
• Mechanical issues
• Cosmetic damage
• Previous collision repairs
• Frame and structural concerns
• Tire, brake, suspension, and safety issues
• Warning lights, diagnostic concerns, and maintenance needs
• Test drive vehicles and evaluate overall drivability and performance.
• Accurately document inspection findings and appraisal information.
• Determine purchase recommendations based on vehicle condition, market trends, and company guidelines.
• Follow company inspection and acquisition procedures.

Vehicle Purchasing & Negotiation

• Purchase vehicles directly from customers through the company acquisition process.
• Build trust and professional relationships with vehicle sellers.
• Explain vehicle evaluations and purchase offers clearly and professionally.
• Negotiate purchase transactions while maintaining company objectives.
• Assist customers through the required paperwork and transaction process.
• Work closely with acquisition managers and support staff to complete purchases efficiently.

Documentation & Ownership Verification

• Review and verify vehicle ownership documentation.
• Validate titles, registrations, lien releases, and supporting ownership paperwork.
• Identify potential documentation discrepancies, title issues, ownership concerns, and transaction risks.
• Escalate documentation concerns according to company procedures.
• Ensure transactions comply with California DMV requirements and company policies.
• Help protect the company from financial loss and transaction-related risks.

Customer Service

• Provide a professional, honest, and positive customer experience.
• Communicate inspection findings and vehicle evaluations clearly.
• Answer customer questions regarding the acquisition process.
• Maintain professionalism throughout inspections, negotiations, and transactions.
• Represent STG Auto Group with integrity and excellent customer service.

QualificationsRequired

• 3 years of automotive inspection, appraisal, dealership, auction, service, or vehicle purchasing experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of automotive mechanical systems.
• Ability to identify mechanical issues, cosmetic damage, previous repairs, and structural concerns.
• Experience evaluating vehicle condition and determining purchase recommendations.
• Experience reviewing vehicle titles, registrations, and ownership documents.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify transaction concerns.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and customer service skills.
• Ability to work directly with customers in a professional manner.
• Valid California driver’s license and ability to meet company driving requirements.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced automotive acquisition environment.

Preferred

• Dealership used-car buying experience.
• Auction, service department, body shop, or vehicle inspection experience.
• Knowledge of California DMV title and registration procedures.
• Experience using automotive appraisal tools or valuation software.
• Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk around and inspect vehicles inside and outside.
• Ability to operate vehicle controls during inspections and test drives.
• Ability to bend, kneel, and inspect vehicle components.
• Ability to occasionally lift or move items up to 25 pounds.

Join Our Team

If you have a strong automotive background, excellent inspection skills, and the ability to evaluate, negotiate, and purchase vehicles while delivering an outstanding customer experience, we want to hear from you.

Join the STG Auto Group Vehicle Acquisition Center team and help customers experience a professional, transparent, and seamless vehicle-selling process.

Equal Opportunity Employer

STG Auto Group is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Up to $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Auto Purchasing: 3 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $120,000