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Auto Auction Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... inspection) positions. Physical Working Conditions This position is subject to both inside and ... Our Auto Auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services including repair ...

Lead Lot Operations

Rio Linda, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Our auto auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services, including repair ... Conduct daily inspections to ensure lot appearance meets standards for cleanliness and proper ...

Our auto auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services, including repair ... Conduct daily inspections to ensure lot appearance meets standards for cleanliness and proper ...

Our auto auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services, including repair ... Conduct daily inspections to ensure lot appearance meets standards for cleanliness and proper ...

Lead Lot Operations

Rio Linda, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Our auto auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services, including repair ... Conduct daily inspections to ensure lot appearance meets standards for cleanliness and proper ...

Lead Lot Operations

Rio Linda, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Our auto auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services, including repair ... Conduct daily inspections to ensure lot appearance meets standards for cleanliness and proper ...

Detail Shop Lead

Rio Linda, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Our auto auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services, including repair ... inspections to maintain a safe work environment. * Inventory & Systems Management: Run reports to ...

Our auto auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services, including repair ... inspections to maintain a safe work environment. * Inventory & Systems Management: Run reports to ...

Detail Shop Lead

Rio Linda, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Our auto auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services, including repair ... inspections to maintain a safe work environment. * Inventory & Systems Management: Run reports to ...

Refinish Tech - R&I

Riverside, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Our Auto Auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services including repair ... inspection) positions . Physical Working Conditions: This position is subject to both inside and ...

Mechanic Tech III

Riverside, CA · On-site

$40.05/hr

Our auto auctions some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services including repair ... Drive Axles - Inspect housing for leaks, perform diagnostics and major repairs as required.

Automotive Detailer

Floriston, CA · On-site

$19.43 - $22.40/hr

7280 - Reno - 35 Auto Center Drive, Reno, Nevada, 89511 CarMax, the way your career should be ... You will perform cosmetic inspections, final quality checks, and advanced reconditioning tasks such ...

Showing results 21-40

Auto Auction Inspector information

See California salary details

$7

$15

$28

How much do auto auction inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto auction inspector in California is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.30 and $17.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an auto auction inspector?

Auto Auction Inspectors are professionals responsible for evaluating the condition of vehicles before they are sold at auto auctions. They carefully inspect cars, trucks, and other vehicles for cosmetic damage, mechanical issues, and overall roadworthiness. Their detailed reports help buyers and sellers understand the true condition of the vehicles, ensuring transparency and fair pricing at auctions. Auto Auction Inspectors play a crucial role in maintaining trust in the auction process and helping buyers make informed decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an auto auction inspector?

To thrive as an Auto Auction Inspector, you need a strong understanding of automotive systems, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with relevant automotive experience or certifications being advantageous. Familiarity with digital inspection tools, vehicle diagnostic equipment, and inventory management software is often required. Strong communication, integrity, and time management skills help inspectors interact effectively with clients and ensure accurate reporting. These skills are vital for maintaining quality standards, preventing errors, and supporting smooth auction operations.

What are some common challenges faced by auto auction inspectors, and how can I prepare for them?

Auto Auction Inspectors often work in fast-paced environments where they must quickly and accurately assess a large volume of vehicles for mechanical and cosmetic issues. Common challenges include working outdoors in various weather conditions, adhering to strict time constraints, and maintaining attention to detail while inspecting diverse makes and models. To prepare, it's helpful to develop strong automotive knowledge, time management skills, and resilience to shifting priorities. Emphasizing clear communication and adaptability will also help you collaborate effectively with auction staff and buyers.

What is the difference between Auto Auction Inspector vs Auto Appraiser?

AspectAuto Auction InspectorAuto Appraiser
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, inspection certificationsHigh school diploma, appraisal certifications
Work EnvironmentAuto auctions, inspection sitesInsurance companies, dealerships, private clients
Industry UsageVehicle inspections for sale readinessVehicle valuation and damage assessment

Auto Auction Inspectors focus on inspecting vehicles for sale at auto auctions, ensuring quality and compliance. Auto Appraisers evaluate vehicle value, often for insurance or resale purposes. While both roles require knowledge of vehicles and certifications, their primary functions differ: inspection versus valuation.

How much do auto auction inspectors make in the US?

Auto auction inspectors in the US typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level inspectors may start at lower wages, while experienced inspectors or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. The role often requires attention to detail and knowledge of vehicle conditions and inspection tools.

What cities in California are hiring for Auto Auction Inspector jobs?

Cities in California with the most Auto Auction Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Auto Auction Inspector job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,331 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Lot Driver (Part Time) - ADESA Mira Loma

Mira Loma, CA

Carvana
Automobile Dealers • 5 - 10K employees

$16.50 - $16.90/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Carvana rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 282 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Lot Driver operates motor vehicles on and off the premises for transport, pickup and delivery in support of auction activities. Safely move, stage, and park vehicles in the correct lot area to support the flow of vehicles for the car auction.

Pay Range: $16.50-$16.90 hourly

Schedule: Three 8-hour shifts and one shorter 4-hour shift, totaling approximately 28- 30 hours per week. (Specific days and schedule are subject to manager discretion and operational needs.)

Hours: 28-30 hours a week

**Clean Background & Valid Drivers License w/ Clean Driving Record Required**

  • Drive vehicles to and from designated areas, as well as pick up and deliver vehicles while observing auction driving rules, rules of the road and demonstrating courteous and defensive driving principles.
  • Drive assigned vehicles through auction lanes on sale day. 
  • Verify VIN of cars being picked up and or delivered against transportation requests.
  • Line up and park vehicles in the correct order as directed by the Lot Manager, Team Leader or designated supervisor.
  • If necessary, inflate tires and jump-start vehicles using a battery box and air tank. 
  • Fill the gas tank when the vehicle is out of gas.
  • Assist customers such as dealers, account reps, and co-workers as needed.
  • Perform walk-around each vehicle prior to moving vehicle and note damage.

Qualifications:

  • Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
  • Must be qualified to operate a motor vehicle and possess a valid driver's license.
  • Basic computer skills are required.
  • Ability to work outdoors under any type of weather conditions.

PERKS & BENEFITS:

  • 401K with company match
  • A great wellness program to keep you healthy and happy both physically and mentally
  • Access to opportunities to expand your skill set and share your knowledge with others across the organization 

Other Requirements

To be able to do your job at ADESA, there are some basic requirements we want to share with you. Of course, we'll make any reasonable accommodations for those with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their jobs.

  • The physical activity requirements of the position range from Light to Medium Physical Work
  • Frequent - standing, watching, touching, listening, walking, talking
  • Potential - running, jumping, yelling or other rapid or forceful movement in emergency situations
  • Visual acuity requirements include color, depth perception and field of vision comparable to definitions for Clerical, Administrative, Machine Operators (including inspection) positions.

Physical Working Conditions

This position is subject to both inside and outside environmental working conditions, including temperature changes, outside weather conditions, slightly elevated ambient noise levels, and minor atmospheric conditions affecting skin or respiratory systems, such as fumes, odors and dusts associated with internal and external service station/convenience food and petroleum dispensing operations.

  • Note: Refer to the Handbook and Policy Manuals for important addendum requirements to all job descriptions. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employee(s) will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities.

To be able to do your job at ADESA, you must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English. Of course, we'll make any reasonable accommodations for those with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their jobs.

About Us

ADESA, a Carvana-owned company, is currently operating over 50 locations throughout the US. Our Auto Auctions, some up to 200 acres, provide a wide array of vehicle services including repair & reconditioning, auction remarketing, and many of our sites serve as market hub distribution centers. Our inventory comprises hundreds of thousands of vehicles across North America from retail to commercial, OEM & more.

We work in a service industry and embrace a "we" versus "I" culture - help others, and they will help you. Our industry is fun, fast-paced, and competitive - and filled with the best people who are passionate about what they do.

We're excited about the future! As an industry leader, ADESA is poised for a multi-year expansion including huge investments in facilities, massive sales growth, and an ever-increasing inventory of vehicles! We are looking for great people who want to take this journey with us! Get a sneak peek into life at ADESA!

Legal Stuff

Hiring is contingent on passing a complete background check. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

ADESA is an equal employment opportunity employer. All applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, age, mental or physical disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law. ADESA also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.

Please note this job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.


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About Carvana

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Carvana, we sell cars, but we're not salespeople. Since 2013, we've been making it our mission to change the way people buy cars. We saw a huge problem with how much it can suck to buy a car the traditional way, so we committed ourselves to tackling one of the largest, yet-to-be-disrupted markets in the world - the $1T per year U.S. car market (yes, that's $Trillion with a "T").

Industry

Automobile dealers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tempe, AZ, US

Year founded

2011