Experienced Senior Used Car Reconditioning Service Advisor

Senior Used Car Reconditioning Service Advisor ( Internal Service Writer)Non-ExemptPay Range: $34.62-$43.27 per hourCompany and Service Department Overview:Dalton Motors services Dalton Toyota National City, Dalton Subaru National City, and Dalton Hyundai National City and is located less than 20 minutes from most areas of San Diego. Founded in Guadalajara in 1945, Dalton Motors is a family owned and operated business with over 30 dealerships serving major manufacturers including Toyota, Subaru, Hyundai, and others. They are continuing the legacy of Frank Motors, an automotive and community presence since 1965. We provide ongoing training all of our teams, and position specific training by our in-house trainer. Our various departments run very smoothly in large part due to our solid processes and trained, skilled staff, many of whom have been at our dealerships for twenty years or more.Position Summary:The Senior Used Car Reconditioning Service Advisor is the central link between the Used Vehicle Sales and Service Departments, responsible for managing the full lifecycle of pre-owned inventory-from acquisition to frontline readiness.This role drives efficiency, cost control, and quality by ensuring all vehicles are reconditioned quickly, correctly, and within budget. Success in this position directly impacts inventory turn, gross profit, and overall dealership performance.Essential Functions and ResponsibilitiesThe essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:Vehicle Intake & Initial InspectionReceive trade-ins, auction units, and acquired inventoryPerform and document initial visual inspectionsOpen and manage internal Repair Orders (ROs) in the DMSReconditioning Lifecycle ManagementOversee all phases of recon, including:Mechanical repairsSafety inspectionsRecall verificationSublet/vendor services (body, glass, upholstery, etc.)Recommend repair scope and recon strategy to Used Car ManagementWorkflow & Production CoordinationPrioritize vehicles to maximize shop efficiency and reduce downtimeMonitor progress and proactively resolve delays or bottlenecksEnsure timely movement from intake → shop → front lineCross -Department CommunicationAct as the primary point of contact between:Used Car Sales ManagersService TechniciansParts DepartmentExternal vendorsProvide consistent status updates and fast issue resolutionCost Control & EstimatingPrepare accurate repair and sublet estimatesManage recon spend to meet budget and profitability targetsBalance cost vs. retail value decisionsQuality AssurancePerform final inspections before frontline releaseEnsure all vehicles meet dealership safety and retail standardsMinimize comebacks and reworkDocumentation & Systems ManagementMaintain detailed records of repairs, parts, and costsUtilize DMS systems (Reynolds & Reynolds, Dealertrack)Leverage recon tools (e.g., ReconVision) for tracking and reportingKey Performance Indicators (KPIs)Turnaround Time: Days to frontline-readyCost per Vehicle: Budget adherenceQuality: Low rework/comeback rateThroughput: Volume and speed of recon completionMinimum QualificationsExperience, Education, or Skills Required:Experience: 3-5+ years in recon, service advising, or inventory coordination (senior-level preferred)Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of automotive systems and repair processesSystems: Experience with DMS and recon software toolsCommunication: Clear, professional, and effective in fast-paced environmentsOrganization: Proven ability to manage high-volume workflows with attention to detailLicensingValid driver's license with clean recordCalifornia DMV Verifier License (preferred/optional based on policy)Dalton Motors Benefits:Full benefits 1st of the month after 60 days of employment including Health, Vision, & Dental Insurance401 (k) PlanPaid VacationEmployee Assistance ProgramAdvancement Opportunities