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Auto Body Appraiser Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Collision Repair Appraiser

Fontana, CA · On-site

$70K - $83K/yr

Penske Collision Repair Appraiser As a Penske Collision Repair Appraiser you are responsible for ... Working knowledge of body shop maintenance operations. * Completing repair estimates in Adjustrite ...

Showing results 21-40

Auto Body Appraiser information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$67.1K

$98.2K

How much do auto body appraiser jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for auto body 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 body appraiser?

Auto Body Appraisers are professionals who assess vehicle damage after accidents or other incidents to determine repair costs. They inspect cars, trucks, or other vehicles, evaluate the extent of the damage, and prepare detailed reports and cost estimates for repairs. Auto Body Appraisers often work for insurance companies, auto repair shops, or as independent consultants. Their work helps ensure that repairs are completed properly and that insurance claims are processed accurately.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an auto body appraiser?

To thrive as an Auto Body Appraiser, you need a solid understanding of automotive repair, damage assessment, and insurance procedures, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant experience or certification (such as I-CAR). Familiarity with estimating software like CCC ONE or Audatex and digital imaging tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and customer service skills set top performers apart. These competencies ensure accurate appraisals, efficient claims processing, and positive client interactions, which are critical for both customer satisfaction and business success.

What are some common challenges faced by auto body appraisers when assessing vehicle damage?

Auto Body Appraisers often encounter challenges such as accurately identifying hidden or underlying damage, especially when external signs are minimal. They must also balance the interests of insurance companies, repair shops, and vehicle owners, which can sometimes lead to difficult negotiations or conflicting expectations. Staying current with evolving vehicle technology and repair techniques is essential, as modern vehicles may require specialized knowledge to appraise correctly. Effective communication and attention to detail are crucial for ensuring fair, accurate estimates and maintaining positive client relationships.

What is the difference between Auto Body Appraiser vs Auto Body Technician?

AspectAuto Body AppraiserAuto Body Technician
CredentialsEstimating certifications, sometimes state licensingTechnical training, ASE certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentInsurance offices, repair shops, remote assessmentsRepair shops, collision centers, garages
Primary ResponsibilitiesAssessing damage, estimating repair costs, negotiating with insurersPerforming repairs, replacing parts, restoring vehicles

Auto Body Appraisers focus on evaluating vehicle damage and estimating repair costs, often working with insurance companies. Auto Body Technicians perform the actual repairs and restorations. While both roles require knowledge of vehicle structures, their daily tasks and credentials differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Auto Body Appraiser jobs in California?

For Auto Body Appraiser jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Auto Body Appraiser jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Auto Body Appraiser jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Auto Body Appraiser jobs?

Cities in California with the most Auto Body Appraiser job openings:

Infographic showing various Auto Body Appraiser job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,089 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Claims Appraiser - Auto Estimatics

State Farm

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$78K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Collect vehicle information from repair shops or customers and complete initial and supplemental estimates via photos or in person.

  • Utilize automated estimating systems to prepare repair estimates and evaluate vehicle damage, bid content, and photo documentation.

  • Provide exceptional customer service by answering inquiries, explaining coverage, and assisting customers and repair shops throughout the claims process.


State Farm rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 1,562 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

241st of 315 rated insurance


Job description

Overview

Being good neighbors – helping people, investing in our communities, and making the world a better place – is who we are at State Farm. It is at the core of how we operate and the reason for our success. We're moving with urgency to become a Next Gen Good Neighbor, with technology that strengthens human connections and enhances the customer experience. As an employee, you'll spend less time navigating systems and more time applying judgment, empathy, and expertise in the moments that matter most.


Responsibilities

As an Auto Estimator, you will collect vehicle information from repair shops or customers and complete initial and supplemental estimates via photos or in person. You may be the first point of contact to meet with our insureds, explain coverage, estimate vehicle damage, and help them through the claims process while providing Remarkable® service. This includes:

  • Utilizing automated estimating systems to prepare repair estimates
  • Providing technical support to claim handlers on vehicle repair issues
  • Applying knowledge of market value and other factors affecting reparability issues
  • Evaluating bid content and photo documentation, vehicle damage, and causation issues
  • Answering inbound calls and making outbound calls to customers and repair shops
  • Providing exceptional customer service throughout the claims process, addressing inquiries and concerns promptly and professionally
  • May occasionally require interacting with parties who express strong emotions or concerns about ongoing inspections or claim resolutions

Where You'll Work:

This is a Remote-Field position in which you will flex between working from home doing virtual estimates and utilizing a mobile office/vehicle for in-person appointments with body shops and customers.
This position is located in San Mateo, CA. Competitive candidates should reside within a commutable distance of this territory.
Candidates may be asked to work outside of their assigned territory as business needs dictates.

Hours of operation are continually evaluated and may change based on business need. Successful candidates are able and willing to work flexible work shifts and may be asked to work overtime and/or irregular hours.


Qualifications

Competitive candidates must demonstrate the following:

  • 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 communication skills
  • Ability to multi-task across technical platforms
  • Accountability and Resourcefulness
  • Physical agility to allow for stooping, bending, and some physical lifting to adequately evaluate vehicle damage and create repair estimates
  • A valid driver’s license is required

Preferred Skills:

  • Motor Vehicle Physical Damage Appraiser License
  • CCC One and/or Mitchell knowledge
  • I-CAR Platinum Certification

Additional Details:

  • Employees must successfully complete all required training, including applicable proficiency, licensing exam(s), Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) checks, and background checks required of various state(s).
  • State Farm recently implemented new pre-employment assessments. Candidates that have previously taken an assessment may be asked to participate in additional testing

Our Benefits

Because work-life balance is a priority at State Farm, compensation is based on our standard 38:45-hour work week!

  • Potential starting salary range: $78,862.06 - $102,500.00 annually.
    • Starting salary will be based on skills, background, and experience
    • High end of the range limited to applicants with significant relevant experience
  • Potential yearly incentive pay up to 15% of base salary


At State Farm, we offer more than just a paycheck. Check out our suite of benefits designed to give you the flexibility you need to take care of you and your family!

  • Get Paid! On top of our competitive pay, you are eligible for an annual raise and bonus.
  • Stay Well! Focus on you and your family’s health with our robust health and wellbeing programs. State Farm pays most of your healthcare premium, and we offer multiple healthcare plan options, including a high deductible plan. All medical plans provide 100% coverage for in-network preventative care, AND you and your family have access to vision, dental, telemedicine, 24/7 mental health professionals, and much more!
  • Develop and Grow! Take advantage of educational benefits like industry leading training programs, top-notch tuition assistance programs, employee resource groups, and mentoring.
  • Plan Ahead! Plan for those big moments in life with benefits like fertility/IVF/adoption assistance, college coaching, national discount programs, interactive monthly financial workshops, free financial coaching, and more. You can also start a savings account or consider financing through our State Farm Federal Credit Union!
  • Take a Little “You” Time! You will have access to our generous time off policies designed so you can plan around holidays, family events, volunteering, or just to take a relaxing day off. With the opportunity to initially earn up to 20 days annually plus parental leave, paid holidays, celebration day, life leave (40 hours/year), bereavement leave, and community service/education support days, there will be plenty of time for you!
  • Give Back! We offer several ways to give back through our Matching Gift Program, Good Neighbor Grant Program, and the Employee Assistance Fund.
  • Finish Strong! Plan for retirement using free financial advisors and a 401(k) plan with company contributions of up to 7% of your salary.

Visit our State Farm Careers page for more information on our benefits, locations, and the hiring process of joining the State Farm team!

Qualifications:

Competitive candidates must demonstrate the following:

  • 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 communication skills
  • Ability to multi-task across technical platforms
  • Accountability and Resourcefulness
  • Physical agility to allow for stooping, bending, and some physical lifting to adequately evaluate vehicle damage and create repair estimates
  • A valid driver’s license is required

Preferred Skills:

  • Motor Vehicle Physical Damage Appraiser License
  • CCC One and/or Mitchell knowledge
  • I-CAR Platinum Certification

Additional Details:

  • Employees must successfully complete all required training, including applicable proficiency, licensing exam(s), Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) checks, and background checks required of various state(s).
  • State Farm recently implemented new pre-employment assessments. Candidates that have previously taken an assessment may be asked to participate in additional testing
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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