Service Manager
Swickard Auto Group · Vancouver, WA · 2 mo ago
On-siteManagementFull-time
About the role
This is more than a management role — it's the opportunity to build a world-class service operation from the ground up. As our founding Service Manager, you'll have the rare chance to establish the culture, standards, workflows, and team that will define Mercedes-Benz service in the Vancouver/Portland market for years to come.
What You'll Do
- Lead, recruit, and develop the full service department team including technicians, service advisors, and support staff
- Establish service department processes, workflows, and standards from pre-opening through launch and beyond
- Drive achievement of key service metrics: revenue, gross profit, technician efficiency, CSI scores, and service retention
- Maintain compliance with Mercedes-Benz brand standards, warranty processes, and certification requirements
- Manage scheduling, parts coordination, and shop capacity to maximize throughput and minimize client wait times
- Serve as the escalation point for complex client concerns, resolving issues with empathy and professionalism
- Collaborate with the Parts Manager to ensure seamless parts availability and minimize repair cycle times
- Prepare and manage the service department budget and monitor financial performance
- Build a culture grounded in hospitality, accountability, and continuous improvement
What We're Looking For
- 5+ years of automotive service management experience, preferably in a dealership environment
- Proven track record of building and leading high-performing service teams
- Deep understanding of service department financials and key performance metrics
- Mercedes-Benz or luxury/European brand experience strongly preferred
- Strong operational and organizational skills with the ability to build systems from scratch
- Hospitality mindset: you set the tone for how every client and team member is treated
- Excellent communication and conflict-resolution skills
- Valid driver's license with clean record
Compensation & Structure
Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
Performance bonus tied to department revenue, gross profit, and CSI results
Why Join Our Founding Team?
- Ground-floor opportunity to shape the culture, processes, and standards of a brand-new operation
- Represent one of the world's most iconic luxury brands
- Competitive compensation package with performance-based incentives
- Manufacturer-supported training and Mercedes-Benz certification opportunities
- Collaborative, hospitality-first culture where your contributions are seen and valued
- Serve a thriving and growing commercial market in one of the Pacific Northwest's fastest-growing corridors
- Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and paid time off
- Career growth potential as the business grows and scales