Lot Assistant | Torchora

🎯 Role Definition

As a Lot Assistant, you are the crucial first and last impression for our vehicle inventory. You are the director of the lot, responsible for the organization, presentation, and readiness of every car we sell and service. This role is the engine of our dealership's operations, working closely with the sales, service, and management teams to ensure a seamless and positive experience for our customers. Your meticulous attention to detail and proactive attitude directly contribute to our brand's reputation and sales success. This is a dynamic, physical role perfect for an automotive enthusiast who takes pride in their work and enjoys being part of a high-energy team.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Labor or Warehouse Roles
Car Wash or Detailing Positions
Valet or Driver Positions
High School or recent graduates with a passion for cars

Advancement To:

Automotive Sales Consultant
Service Advisor or Service Writer
Automotive Detailer or Detailing Manager
Inventory Manager

Lateral Moves:

Service Porter
Shuttle Driver
Parts Runner or Assistant

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Meticulously maintain the appearance of all new and pre-owned vehicle inventory by performing regular washing, waxing, and interior cleaning to ensure a pristine, "front-line ready" presentation for potential buyers.
Strategically organize and arrange vehicles on the dealership lot according to established display standards and management directives to maximize visual appeal and customer traffic flow.
Safely and efficiently transport vehicles between the sales lot, service department, detail bay, and storage areas to support daily operational needs and inter-departmental requests.
Conduct comprehensive vehicle check-ins for new arrivals from transport carriers, meticulously verifying VINs against invoices and thoroughly inspecting for any in-transit damage.
Document and promptly report any vehicle damage, discrepancies, or maintenance issues discovered during inspections or daily lot checks to the Sales or Service Manager.
Ensure all vehicles in inventory are properly fueled, have optimal fluid levels, and charged batteries, performing jump-starts and minor top-offs as necessary to guarantee vehicle readiness.
Prepare vehicles for customer delivery by performing a final quality control inspection, cleaning, and ensuring all requested accessories and paperwork are in place for a premium hand-off experience.
Accurately create and affix key tags, stock tags, and legally required buyer's guides to all inventory vehicles, maintaining a consistent and organized system.
Assist the sales and service teams by promptly retrieving and positioning vehicles for customer test drives, service appointments, and showroom displays.
Manage the vehicle key inventory through a secure tracking system, ensuring all keys are accounted for, correctly stored, and readily accessible for authorized personnel.
Support the dealership's online marketing efforts by photographing vehicles for digital inventory listings, adhering to specific guidelines for quality, angles, and consistency.
Drive vehicles for dealer trades, auctions, and off-site errands as requested by management, representing the dealership professionally and ensuring safe transport at all times.
Greet and assist customers on the lot in a friendly and professional manner, directing them to the appropriate sales consultant or department to enhance the customer experience from the moment they arrive.
Perform end-of-day security checks, ensuring all lot vehicles are locked, windows are closed, and the lot is secured against theft or damage.
Catalog and organize vehicle owner's manuals, spare keys, and floor mats to ensure they are paired with the correct vehicle upon sale.
Adhere to all company safety policies and procedures, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and practicing safe driving habits on and off the lot.

Secondary Functions

Assist with the setup and teardown for dealership events, sales promotions, and marketing initiatives.
Perform light facility maintenance tasks, such as sweeping showroom floors, emptying trash receptacles, and maintaining a clean and safe lot environment.
Run occasional off-site errands for the dealership, including parts pickups, document transfers, or banking deposits.
Provide support during periods of high customer traffic by greeting clients and directing them to available team members.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Valid Driver's License and a clean, insurable driving record.
Proficiency in operating both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.
Basic knowledge of vehicle operation and minor maintenance (e.g., checking fluids, jump-starting).
Experience with automotive cleaning and light detailing techniques and products.
Ability to use smartphones or cameras for vehicle photography.

Soft Skills

Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to quality presentation.
Strong organizational and time-management skills to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Proactive work ethic and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Excellent teamwork and collaboration skills to support various departments.
A positive, customer-focused attitude and professional demeanor.
Physical stamina to stand, walk, and work outdoors for extended periods in various weather conditions.
Clear and effective communication skills.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Vocational or technical training in an automotive-related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Automotive Technology
General Studies

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

0-2 years of experience in a related field such as general labor, car wash, valet, or warehousing.

Preferred:

Prior experience working as a lot attendant, porter, or detailer at a car dealership, rental agency, or automotive auction.