What are the responsibilities and job description for the Automotive Inventory Specialist position at Tri State Ford?
Description
Tri State Ford, a Locally Owned and Community Driven automotive dealership in East Liverpool, OH, is looking for an Automotive Inventory Specialist.
The Automotive Inventory Specialist is responsible for sourcing, acquiring, pricing, and managing vehicle inventory to support dealership sales goals and profitability. This position plays a key role in maintaining the right mix of new and pre-owned vehicles by monitoring market trends, evaluating inventory performance, attending auctions, purchasing vehicles from private parties and trade-ins, and coordinating with dealership leadership and sales teams.
The ideal candidate:
- is disciplined and consistent with processes
- open to new ideas, processes and strategies
- resilient and learns from failures
- has a high sense of urgency
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Source and acquire quality new and pre-owned vehicle inventory through auctions, trade-ins, wholesalers, private sellers, and other channels
- Evaluate vehicle condition, market demand, pricing trends, and profitability potential prior to purchase
- Maintain optimal inventory levels and vehicle mix to meet dealership sales objectives
- Monitor local and national automotive market trends, pricing guides, and competitor inventory
- Collaborate with sales management to identify inventory needs and fast-moving vehicle segments
- Review aging inventory and assist in developing pricing and merchandising strategies
- Negotiate vehicle purchases and transportation arrangements to maximize profitability
- Attend physical and online automotive auctions as needed
- Appraise trade-in vehicles and assist with vehicle acquisition opportunities
- Ensure accurate inventory records, vehicle information, and purchase documentation
- Coordinate reconditioning timelines and inventory readiness with service and detail departments
- Maintain strong relationships with auction representatives, wholesalers, and vendors
- Assist in forecasting inventory needs based on sales history, seasonal trends, and market demand
- Ensure compliance with dealership policies, manufacturer standards, and applicable regulations
Qualifications
- Previous automotive inventory, buying, appraisal, or used car management experience preferred
- Knowledge of vehicle valuation tools, auction platforms, and market pricing resources
- Understanding of dealership operations, vehicle reconditioning, and retail sales processes
- Strong negotiation and decision-making skills
- Excellent organizational and analytical abilities
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment
- Proficient with dealership management systems (DMS) and inventory software
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record required
Preferred Skills & Experience
- Experience working in a Ford dealership environment
- Familiarity with Ford product lines and certified pre-owned standards
- Experience with online auction platforms and inventory management systems
- Ability to analyze inventory turn rates, gross profit, and market demand metrics
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, and inspect vehicles for extended periods
- Ability to operate vehicles safely
- Ability to travel locally or regionally for auctions or vehicle acquisitions as needed
- Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds
Work Environment
This position operates in both office and outdoor dealership environments and may require travel to auctions, dealerships, or off-site vehicle acquisition locations. Evening or weekend hours may occasionally be required based on auction schedules and business needs.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation package
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Company-paid life and short-term disability insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and holidays
- Ongoing training and career development opportunities
Schedule
- Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and Saturdays as needed.
Pay
- Base salary plus bonuses
Tri State Ford is an equal opportunity employer.
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to these factors.