CarMax application tips

Headquartered in Richmond, VA, CarMax is America’s largest retailer of used cars and is a recognized Fortune 250 company.

CarMax has around 220 locations in the United States and specializes in offering quality, used cars at inexpensive prices.

CarMax currently employs more than 25,000 people, and the company’s exceptional customer service sets it apart from its competitors.

Want to work there? Here's everything you need to know about the hiring process.

What is CarMax?

CarMax began in 1993 and has since made a name for itself selling quality used cars. There are locations across the country, and the company always has a large vehicle inventory.

There are a range of job types available, including business office associates, auto technicians, sales consultants, and customer specialists.

What makes CarMax stand out is its unique approach to business. For example, CarMax offers 24-hour test drives, express pick-up, and a 30-day money back guarantee.

It's a convenient service, and over 900 million cars have been purchased. Customers can see what's available online, making the buying process simple.

CarMax has a friendly work environment, and the company is passionate about giving back to the community.

Shifts can be part-time, full-time, or temporary.

How to apply for a job at CarMax

CarMax says that if you bring your curiosity, you’ll get opportunities to continue learning, to grow your skills, and to shape your career in ways you haven’t even imagined.

If you want to work at CarMax, you must be 18 years or older. A valid driver's license and a high school diploma or GED are also job requirements.

You will need to list your availability, work history, and education. The hiring process can take a couple of days to a few weeks.

There are a range of jobs available, and you can apply online at the CarMax careers site. You can browse by job type, including auto technician and services, Contact Center, transportation, store, corporate, technology, and student.

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Alternatively, you can enter specific keywords and your location to see what’s available near you. Once you’ve found a job you’re interested in, you’ll need to create a job seeker account, which is free.

Stages of the online application process

All CarMax candidates will need to complete the following steps:

1. CarMax Application

You can apply online here. Be sure to complete the entire application.

2. CarMax Assessment Tests

If your previous experience is relevant to the position, you’ll be invited to take the CarMax personality test. (Possibly, the Myers-Briggs personality test.)

There is no “right answer.” A hiring manager wants to see if you’re a good fit for the position.

3. CarMax Assessment Day

After passing the online assessment you will be invited for the onsite assessment day. Assessment tests are taken on a computer.

This day will include the CarMax mathematical reasoning test, verbal reasoning test, and logical reasoning test.

• Mathematical Reasoning Test: This test can range from the most basic mathematics to more advanced calculations.

• Logical Reasoning Test: This test consists of abstract, diagrammatic, or inductive reasoning tests. They allow CarMax to evaluate your attention to details, evaluate information, and make decisions.

• Verbal Reasoning Test: This test is designed to assess your vocabulary, comprehension, and critical reasoning abilities.

CarMax interview tips

After you complete the assessment tests, you’ll be invited for a group interview or individual interview with CarMax managers and/or HR.

• The face-to-face interview can be in an unconventional setting. The reasons for that are: under such a setting you might lose your defenses and reveal your difficulties. Another reason is that the manager wants to know you as a person, for example, your hobbies and outside interests apart from work.

• The hiring manager will usually want to hear about a conflict or a challenge you had with a customer, colleague, or manager. Think in advance of such a situation and how you dealt with it.

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• Previous candidates were asked the following questions during the interview process:

• Can you name a time when you had to complete two tasks simultaneously?

• Tell me a time when you went out of your way to make a customer happy?

• Why are you looking for a new job now?

• Please tell me about the most dynamic and interesting presentation you’ve ever given.

Does CarMax do a background check?

Toward the end of the hiring process, CarMax does an employment background check.

CarMax uses a third-party background check company to create a detailed report about your history. This check covers a few key areas.

First, the background report will verify the details in your application, including your work history and education. So, don't say you have automotive experience if that’s not true — because it’ll be checked.

There's also a criminal background check that looks at any felonies or misdemeanors. Keep in mind that they check multiple databases, so any issues locally or nationally will show up in your criminal history report.

You'll also need to have a clean driving record. Any driving issues, such as traffic infringements or DUIs, will be included in the check. The check will also verify that your driver's license is valid.

Not all issues on your background screening report will lead to automatic disqualification. The type of crime and how much time has passed since can make a difference in the final decision.

These checks can go back seven years or more. If you're concerned about what may be on your record, you can discuss this with the hiring manager.

The CarMax employment background check doesn't usually look at your credit history.

You'll also need to pass a drug test before you can start work.

Where to get a CarMax job

Want to be part of the dedicated team at CarMax? There are jobs available now.

You can start your search on our job board by browsing CarMax positions in your area.

Create a free account and chat in our community discussions. You can also set up job alerts or create a professional resume with our quick resume builder.

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You can also go to the CarMax careers website. Enter any keywords and your location to see what's available near you. Or you can browse job openings by career area.

Working at CarMax

CarMax has jobs available across a range of departments. If you’re looking for a new opportunity, you can apply online.

Once you’ve filled out the online application, you’ll be asked to take a personality test. The results will show the employer whether you’d be a good fit for the company culture.

Next is a career assessment day, where you’ll take a selection of reasoning tests. If you get through this stage, you’ll need to attend an interview.

Finally, if you get offered a job, the company will do a background check, and you’ll also need to pass a drug test.

Ready for a new challenge? Visit our job board to see who’s hiring, or head to our resource center for resume hints and tips.