Many different people play an essential part in keeping your auto dealership running smoothly. One vital role for any dealership is the parts manager. So, what is a parts manager, and how can you find the best one for your dealership? Let’s break it down. 

What is an Automotive Parts Manager?

The automotive parts manager oversees all aspects of a dealership’s vehicle parts inventory — from ordering the parts to getting them to the dealership’s service technicians. 

It’s the parts manager’s job to make sure the dealership doesn’t run out of the parts they need to take care of customers’ vehicles. They place the parts orders with approved vendors, collect and organize the inventory, and distribute the vehicle parts as necessary. If there are any issues with parts orders, such as damaged items or delayed deliveries, the parts manager will address them. 

What Does a Parts Manager Do?

The exact responsibilities of a parts manager may vary slightly from dealership to dealership, but they will generally include these duties:

• Maintaining appropriate part inventory levels
• Ordering the vehicle parts required for repairs and service
• Tracking and confirming parts orders
• Ensuring parts are high-quality, accurate, and free of damage
• Organizing parts inventory for maximum efficiency

The parts manager may also oversee parts personnel and provide any necessary training. According to ZipRecruiter, the average base salary for a parts manager in the United States is around $63,000¹. 

How Can Someone Become a Parts Manager?

To become a parts manager, applicants must gain some critical skills and experience in the automotive field. Here are some of the most important qualifications:

Skills and Qualifications

Successful parts managers have skills, including:

• Leadership and interpersonal skills to manage staff
• Problem-solving skills for when inventory issues arise
• Ability to work under pressure
• Customer service skills (if working directly with customers)
• Computer literacy for using inventory software and other technology
• Strong communication skills

Education Requirements

Typically, parts managers have no education requirements beyond a high school diploma or general education degree (GED)². Some dealerships may prefer to hire parts managers with some further education, such as an associate degree or certificate from a technical school, but most care more about experience. 

Experience

One of the most important qualities a parts manager can have is a deep knowledge of vehicle parts and repairs. Previous experience as a mechanic, car salesman, or auto technician is very helpful. Management, customer service, and sales experience will also help the parts technician succeed. 

What to Look For When Hiring an Auto Parts Manager

When you’re looking to hire a new parts manager, there are many factors you should consider.

Start by evaluating the resumes you receive based on the candidates’ experience. Candidates with previous dealership or automotive experience are the most likely to succeed in this role. 

In interviews, ask candidates to explain their relevant skills and experience further. 

Look for candidates who speak knowledgeably and confidently about vehicle parts and management. You should also use these interviews to gauge who would be a good fit in your dealership's work culture. 

Stock Up on High-Quality Vehicle Inventory With ACV Auctions

While the parts and service department often brings in a large percentage of a dealership’s revenue, dealerships also need quality used cars in their inventory. Hire a skilled parts manager to take care of your parts inventory and rely on ACV Auctions to get your used car inventory.

ACV Auctions is the leading wholesale vehicle marketplace where you can confidently source the best used cars for your dealership. Get started today.  

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Sources

1. (30 April 2024). Salary: Parts Manager. ZipRecruiter. Retrieved May 16, 2024 from, https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Parts-Manager-Salary 
2. (27 September 2023). Parts Manager Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications. Indeed. Retrieved May 16, 2024 from, https://www.indeed.com/hire/job-description/parts-manager