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Auto Appraiser Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Field Auto Appraiser

El Segundo, CA · On-site +1

$35.82 - $45.58/hr

We are seeking an Auto Field Adjuster with prior experience in an auto field appraisal or estimating role. The ideal candidate will reside within a 10-mile radius of El Segundo, CA or Culver City ...

The Opportunity As an Auto Appraiser - Photo, you will be responsible to investigate, evaluate and appraise vehicle damage claims for both repairable and total loss vehicles to ensure estimate ...

Auto Appraiser - Photo

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$57K - $103K/yr

The Opportunity As an Auto Appraiser - Photo, you will be responsible to investigate, evaluate and appraise vehicle damage claims for both repairable and total loss vehicles to ensure estimate ...

We are seeking an Auto Field Adjuster with prior experience in an auto field appraisal or estimating role. The ideal candidate will reside within a 10mile radius of El Segundo, CA or Culver City ...

We are seeking an Auto Field Adjuster with prior experience in an auto field appraisal or estimating role. The ideal candidate will reside within a 10mile radius of El Segundo, CA or Culver City ...

The Opportunity As an Auto Appraiser - Photo, you will be responsible to investigate, evaluate and appraise vehicle damage claims for both repairable and total loss vehicles to ensure estimate ...

Auto collision repair, auto damage estimating, and/or auto insurance appraiser experience * Excellent customer service, critical thinking, and decision-making skills * Strong written and verbal ...

Auto collision repair, auto damage estimating, and/or auto insurance appraiser experience * Excellent customer service, critical thinking, and decision-making skills * Strong written and verbal ...

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Showing results 1-20

Auto Appraiser information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$67.1K

$98.2K

How much do auto appraiser jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for auto appraiser in California is $67,089.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,300.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Auto Appraiser Do?

Auto appraisers assess damage to vehicles after an accident to determine reasonable repair costs. They typically work for insurance companies. Auto appraisers may come to the scene of the accident or view a damaged vehicle at the owner’s home. They also make visits to body shops to inspect vehicles. Duties and responsibilities of an auto adjuster include thoroughly examining the vehicle, documenting damage, researching repair and replacement costs, and recommending how much the insurance company should pay to repair a vehicle.

What is an Auto Appraiser?

An Auto Appraiser is a professional who inspects vehicles after accidents or claims to determine the extent of damage and estimate repair costs. They work for insurance companies, independent appraisal firms, or as freelancers. Auto Appraisers assess vehicle value, prepare detailed reports, and may negotiate repair costs with body shops or claimants. Their expertise ensures fair settlements for both insurers and policyholders.

Can you be an appraiser as a side hustle?

Auto appraisers can often work as independent contractors or part-time, allowing them to take on side projects outside their primary employment. However, they must ensure they meet licensing requirements and have the necessary skills, such as knowledge of vehicle valuation tools and industry standards, to perform accurate appraisals on a flexible schedule.

Is a car appraisal worth it?

For an auto appraiser, conducting accurate vehicle evaluations is essential for determining fair market value, insurance claims, or total loss assessments. Car appraisals provide documented estimates that can support financial decisions and negotiations, making them a valuable part of the job. Proper training and certification can enhance credibility and effectiveness in this role.

What is the difference between Auto Appraiser vs Auto Damage Adjuster?

AspectAuto AppraiserAuto Damage Adjuster
CertificationsAuto Appraiser certifications, such as I-CAR or ASEAuto Damage Adjuster certifications, including I-CAR or ASE
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits to inspect vehiclesFieldwork primarily, inspecting damaged vehicles and assessing repairs
Employer & IndustryInsurance companies, auto dealerships, independent appraisal firmsInsurance companies, auto repair shops, claims departments

Both roles involve evaluating vehicle damage, often requiring similar certifications. Auto Appraisers focus on estimating vehicle value and damage for insurance claims or sales, while Auto Damage Adjusters primarily assess damage to process insurance claims. The main difference lies in their specific responsibilities and work settings, but both roles are integral to the auto insurance industry.

What is the difference between an auto adjuster and an auto appraiser?

An auto appraiser evaluates vehicle damage and determines repair costs after an accident, often working directly with insurance companies. An auto adjuster reviews insurance claims, assesses damages, and decides on claim approval or settlement, sometimes using appraisers' reports as part of the process.

What are some common challenges faced by Auto Appraisers when assessing vehicle damage?

Auto Appraisers often encounter challenges such as dealing with incomplete or unclear accident information, evaluating hidden or supplemental damage, and managing tight deadlines for report submissions. They must also navigate discussions with both vehicle owners and insurance adjusters to ensure fair and accurate assessments. Staying updated with evolving vehicle technology and repair methods is essential, as modern cars often require specialized knowledge for accurate appraisals.

How much do auto damage appraisers make?

Auto damage appraisers in Massachusetts typically earn an average annual salary between $45,000 and $65,000, depending on experience, certifications, and employer. Experienced appraisers with certifications such as I-CAR or ASE may earn higher wages, and some work on a commission or fee basis for each appraisal completed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Auto Appraiser, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Auto Appraiser, you need strong knowledge of vehicle mechanics, repair processes, and insurance industry standards, often supported by vocational training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with estimating software like CCC One, Mitchell, or Audatex, as well as state licensing requirements, is typically necessary. Attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you accurately assess damage and explain findings to clients or insurers. These competencies ensure precise appraisals, efficient claims processing, and high customer satisfaction.
What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Appraiser jobs in California? The most popular types of Auto Appraiser jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Auto Appraiser jobs? Cities in California with the most Auto Appraiser job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Auto Appraiser jobs in CA? For Auto Appraiser jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Auto Appraiser job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 62% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, 28% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,089 per year, or $32.3 per hour.
Field Auto Appraiser

Field Auto Appraiser

Allstate

El Segundo, CA • On-site, Remote

$35.82 - $45.58/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Allstate Insurance rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 560 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

213th of 298 rated insurance


Job description

National General is a part of The Allstate Corporation, which means we have the same innovative drive that keeps us a step ahead of our customers' evolving needs. We offer home, auto and accident and health insurance, as well as other specialty niche insurance products, through a large network of independent insurance agents, as well as directly to consumers.
Job Description
The Auto Field Adjuster is responsible for working in the field to assess vehicle damage, conduct on-site inspections, and accurately document losses. This role includes writing repair estimates in accordance with company guidelines, taking detailed photographs of vehicle damage, and managing the full estimating process, including supplements and negotiations with repair facilities and other vendors. The appraiser schedules and completes inspections efficiently, maintains thorough documentation, and communicates clearly with customers and partners. A strong focus on exceptional customer service is essential, ensuring customers are informed and supported throughout the claims process.
We are seeking an Auto Field Adjuster with prior experience in an auto field appraisal or estimating role. The ideal candidate will reside within a 10-mile radius of El Segundo, CA or Culver City, California and bring hands-on experience handling initial and supplemental estimates, as well as repair negotiations. Proficiency in industry-standard estimating software such as CCC, Audatex, or Mitchell is desirable. This role demands strong field assessment skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while delivering accurate estimates and exceptional customer service.
Key Responsibilities
• Possesses strong estimating fundamentals in order to create or audit estimates of damages on 1st and 3rd party material damage losses of all severities
• Builds mastered relationships with both internal and external customers across multiple lines
• Evaluates settlement alternatives by reviewing regulatory compliance and fair claims practices; makes decisions on best option
• Negotiates settlements, makes settlement payments and documents all activities in the most complex of files across multiple lines
• Possesses a deep understanding of the content of all policy types written by the company
Supervisory Responsibilities
• This job does not have supervisory duties.
#LI-AS2
Skills
Auto Body Repair, Auto Collision Repair, Auto Damage Appraisal, CCC ONE, Customer Satisfaction, Negotiation, Organizing, Prioritization
Compensation
Base compensation offered for this role is:
Field Adjuster Cons I: $26.49 - 37.50/hour
Field Adjuster Cons II: $28.03 - 39.42/hour
Field Adjuster Sr. Cons I: $35.82 - 45.58/hour
Compensation is based on experience and qualifications. Total compensation for this role may include additional components, such as incentive pay (for example, commission or bonus), if applicable.
As a requirement of employment, individuals who currently hold an active insurance license must terminate all existing appointments prior to onboarding and must not hold any outside appointments at any point during employment. Applicants seeking an adjuster role who also hold a resident producer license must formally surrender that license when instructed to by the licensing team. By proceeding with the application process, applicants acknowledge and accept these licensing requirements and agree to comply.
Joining our team isn't just a job - it's an opportunity. One that takes your skills and pushes them to the next level. One that encourages you to challenge the status quo. One where you can shape the future of protection while supporting causes that mean the most to you. Joining our team means being part of something bigger - a winning team making a meaningful impact.
Effective July 1, 2014, under Indiana House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1242, it is against public policy of the State of Indiana and a discriminatory practice for an employer to discriminate against a prospective employee on the basis of status as a veteran by refusing to employ an applicant on the basis that they are a veteran of the armed forces of the United States, a member of the Indiana National Guard or a member of a reserve component.
For jobs in San Francisco, please click "here" for information regarding the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.
For jobs in Los Angeles, please click "here" for information regarding the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.
To view the "EEO Know Your Rights" poster click "here". This poster provides information concerning the laws and procedures for filing complaints of violations of the laws with the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs.
To view the FMLA poster, click "here". This poster summarizing the major provisions of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and telling employees how to file a complaint.
It is the Company's policy to employ the best qualified individuals available for all jobs. Therefore, any discriminatory action taken on account of an employee's ancestry, age, color, disability, genetic information, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual and reproductive health decision, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, race (include traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles), religion (including religious dress), sex, or sexual orientation that adversely affects an employee's terms or conditions of employment is prohibited. This policy applies to all aspects of the employment relationship, including, but not limited to, hiring, training, salary administration, promotion, job assignment, benefits, discipline, and separation of employment.
National General Holdings Corp., a member of the Allstate family of companies, is headquartered in New York City. National General traces its roots to 1939, has a financial strength rating of A- (excellent) from A.M. Best, and provides personal and commercial automobile, homeowners, umbrella, recreational vehicle, motorcycle, supplemental health, and other niche insurance products. We are a specialty personal lines insurance holding company. Through our subsidiaries, we provide a variety of insurance products, including personal and commercial automobile, homeowners, umbrella, recreational vehicle, supplemental health, lender-placed and other niche insurance products.
Companies & Partners
Direct General Auto & Life, Personal Express Insurance, Century-National Insurance, ABC Insurance Agencies, NatGen Preferred, NatGen Premier, Seattle Specialty, National General Lender Services, ARS, RAC Insurance Partners, Mountain Valley Indemnity, New Jersey Skylands, Adirondack Insurance Exchange, VelaPoint, Quotit, HealthCompare, AHCP, NHIC, Healthcare Solutions Team, North Star Marketing, Euro Accident.
Benefits
National General Holdings Corp. is an Equal Opportunity (EO) employer - Veterans/Disabled and other protected categories. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of any characteristic protected by law. Candidates must possess authorization to work in the United States, as it is not our practice to sponsor individuals for work visas. In the event you need assistance or accommodation in completing your online application, please contact NGIC main office by phone at (336) 435-2000.
Allstate provides a comprehensive technology setup, including a laptop, monitors, headset, keyboard, and mouse. Employees eligible to work from home also receive a monthly connectivity reimbursement to help offset internet costs.
When working from home, you must have a dedicated, private workspace free from distractions, along with appropriate desk and seating. Reliable internet is required, with minimum speeds of 50 MB download and 5 MB upload.

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