1

Auto Appraiser Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

As a Penske Collision Repair Appraiser at our Montebello branch you are responsible for writing collision repair estimates. Major Responsibilities: * Superior customer relation skills * Strong ...

As a Penske Collision Repair Appraiser at our Montebello branch you are responsible for writing collision repair estimates. Major Responsibilities: -Superior customer relation skills -Strong ...

Collision Repair Appraiser

Fontana, CA · On-site

$70K - $83K/yr

As a Penske Collision Repair Appraiser you are responsible for writing collision repair estimates. Major Responsibilities: -Superior customer relation skills -Strong communication and people ...

Vehicle Condition Assessor

Fresno, CA · On-site

$18.70 - $29.90/hr

Complete vehicle secures and confirmations, verifying appraisal details and resolving discrepancies. * Assist with inventory management, customer transfers, and lot merchandising as needed.

Vehicle Condition Assessor

Fresno, CA · On-site

$18.70 - $29.90/hr

Complete vehicle secures and confirmations, verifying appraisal details and resolving discrepancies. * Assist with inventory management, customer transfers, and lot merchandising as needed.

Vehicle Condition Assessor

Fresno, CA · On-site

$18.70 - $29.90/hr

Complete vehicle secures and confirmations, verifying appraisal details and resolving discrepancies. * Assist with inventory management, customer transfers, and lot merchandising as needed.

Appraiser Trainee

San Jose, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

Appraiser Trainee to work for small firm in Silicon Valley Area. This is a full-time Monday through Friday position that is paid with bonuses. Desired experience in the real estate field. Computer ...

New

Appraiser Trainee

San Jose, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

Appraiser Trainee to work for small firm in Silicon Valley Area. This is a full-time Monday through Friday position that is paid with bonuses. Desired experience in the real estate field. Computer ...

New

Appraiser Aide

Bridgeport, CA · On-site

$64K - $78K/yr

The Appraiser Aide may also assist with field inspections of land, structures, and property improvements; gather and verify property information; perform calculations; prepare records and reports ...

Appraiser Aide

Bridgeport, CA · On-site

$64K - $78K/yr

The Appraiser Aide may also assist with field inspections of land, structures, and property improvements; gather and verify property information; perform calculations; prepare records and reports ...

Appraiser I/II/III

Merced, CA · On-site

$56K - $88K/yr

Minimum Qualifications Appraiser I Experience: None required. Education: Equivalent to graduation from a four (4) year college or university preferably in accounting, business administration ...

In commercial property appraisals devises capitalization rate on projected income. May present department's case in taxpayer protest hearings. Minimum Qualifications Appraiser I Experience: None ...

The Auditor-Appraiser series is found only in the Assessor's Office and is primarily oriented to business and personal property for tax assessment purposes. These positions conduct business audits ...

Appraiser, Senior

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

JOB DESCRIPTION (Senior Appraiser): Appraises real estate properties independently for the purposes of dispute resolution, mortgage underwriting, acquisition/disposition, portfolio analysis, estate ...

Appraiser, Senior

Irvine, CA · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

(Senior Appraiser): Appraises real estate properties independently for the purposes of dispute resolution, mortgage underwriting, acquisition/disposition, portfolio analysis, estate purposes and other ...

Appraiser, Senior

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

JOB DESCRIPTION (Senior Appraiser): Appraises real estate properties independently for the purposes of dispute resolution, mortgage underwriting, acquisition/disposition, portfolio analysis, estate ...

Showing results 41-60

Auto Appraiser information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$67.1K

$98.2K

How much do auto appraiser jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 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 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.

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 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 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.

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.

Are auto appraisers in demand right now?

Auto appraisers are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for vehicle damage assessments and insurance claims processing. The profession benefits from technological tools like estimating software and requires certification, with job opportunities often available in insurance companies, repair shops, and appraisal firms.

How much do auto appraisers make?

Auto appraisers in Texas typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Experienced appraisers with specialized skills or working for insurance companies may earn higher wages, and some work on a commission or fee basis for each appraisal conducted.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 40% In-person, and 60% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,089 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Collision Repair Appraiser

Penske

Montebello, CA • On-site

$70 - $84/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Penske Corporation rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 366 rated logistics


Job description

Position Summary:

As a Penske Collision Repair Appraiser at our Montebello branch you are responsible for writing collision repair estimates.

Major Responsibilities:
  • Superior customer relation skills
  • Strong communication and people management skills
  • Working knowledge of body shop maintenance operations.
  • Completing repair estimates in Adjustrite system-downloading into Summit.
  • Communicate with both internal and external customers.
  • Other projects and tasks as assigned by supervisor
Qualifications:
  • At least 3 years of body shop estimating experience required
  • Estimator Certification required
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required
  • Vocational/technical school preferred
  • Basic computer skills including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook required
  • Strong written/oral communication, problem solving, and decision making skills are required
  • The associate will be required to understand and comply with specific instructions, guidelines, rules, regulations, or other information established by Penske management
  • The associate must be able to perform all work adhering to DOT, OSHA, and all Penske safety and maintenance policies; including but not limited to the correct selection and use of appropriate tools, PPE, machine guarding, and established best safety practice.
  • Regular, predictable, full attendance is an essential function of the job
  • Willingness to travel as necessary, work the required schedule, work at the specific location required, complete Penske employment application, submit to a background investigation (to include past employment, education, and criminal history) and drug screening are required.
Physical Requirements:
  • While performing the duties of this job, the associate will be required to move frequently, stand, walk, climb, bend, and sit for extended length of time throughout their scheduled working period.
  • The associate is required to use their hands on a routine and daily basis to grasp, reach, touch, handle, feel, and/or otherwise operate required tools or controls.
  • The associate must be able to work safely at heights using applicable ladders and elevated working platforms.
  • The associate must be able to safely work in all weather conditions.
  • Given the frequent movement of large trucks through the workplace, the associate must be able to see and hear in order to safely navigate the work environment.
  • The associate must be able to regularly lift and/or move up to 50lbs/23kg and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100lbs/45kg.
Schedule:

Mon-Fri Day Shift

Salary:

$70,304.00/yr-$83,600.00/yr

Penske is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

#BodyShop

About Penske Truck Leasing/Transportation Solutions

Penske Truck Leasing/Transportation Solutions is a premier global transportation provider that delivers essential and innovative transportation, logistics and technology services to help companies and people move forward. With headquarters in Reading, PA, Penske and its associates are driven by a dedication to excellence and a commitment to customer success. Visit Go Penske to learn more.

Job Category: Vehicle Maintenance/Mechanics/Technicians

Job Function: Body Shop Repair

Job Family: Vehicle Maintenance

Address: 1465 South Greenwood Avenue

Primary Location: US-CA-Montebello

Employer: Penske Truck Leasing Co., L.P.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What Penske Corporation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Penske logo

About Penske

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

When you join Penske, you're joining a team that cares about doing its best. At each location, there's a strong sense of teamwork. We're all working together to move our customers forward. That's true for the 11,000+ vehicle repair associates who are working at hundreds of locations across the United States. Penske Truck Leasing Co., L.P., headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania, is a partnership of Penske Corporation, Penske Automotive Group and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. A leading global transportation services provider, Penske operates a premier fleet of vehicles and serves its customers from locations in North America, South America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. Penske's product lines include full-service truck leasing, contract maintenance, commercial and consumer truck rentals, used truck sales, transportation and warehousing management and supply chain management solutions. Visit www.GoPenske.com to learn more.

Industry

Automobile dealers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bloomfield Hills, MI, US