Auto Body Entry Level Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Company

Cox Automotive - USAVehicle OperationsMobile Inspector IIIndividual ContributorNo remote option; must work at a specified Cox locationYes 100% of the timeDay

Compensation

Hourly pay rate is $15.29 - $22.98/hour. The hourly rate may vary within the anticipated range based on factors such as the ultimate location of the position and the selected candidate's experience. In addition to the hourly range identified herein, this role is also eligible for an annual incentive/commission target of $6,000.00.

The position territories are Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, Iowa surrounding areas.

Manheim Mobile Vehicle Condition Inspector

There are multiple open positions. Candidates may be hired at one of the following levels depending on experience, qualifications, and business need.

Mobile Inspector - Level 1

Hourly Pay Range
100% Geo:$15.10 - $18.89 - $22.69 per hour
110% Geo:$16.63 - $20.77 - $24.90 per hour
120% Geo:$18.17 - $22.69 - $27.21 per hour

Mobile Inspector - Level 2

Hourly Pay Range
100% Geo:$16.59 - $20.72 - $24.86 per hour
110% Geo:$18.22 - $22.79 - $27.36 per hour
120% Geo:$19.90 - $24.86 - $29.81 per hour

Mobile Inspector - Senior Level

Hourly Pay Range
100% Geo:$18.17 - $22.74 - $27.31 per hour
110% Geo:$20.00 - $25.00 - $30.00 per hour
120% Geo:$21.83 - $27.31 - $32.79 per hour

We are currently accepting applicants at all levels. Please see the minimum requirements for each level of the role below.

Job Description (Applies to All Levels)

The Mobile Inspector functions as a key member of the Manheim Mobile Inspections team, responsible for conducting onsite vehicle condition inspections for dealer clients within an assigned territory. This role provides accurate, detailed, and timely documentation of vehicle condition in accordance with Manheim inspection standards, supporting client trust, marketplace transparency, and inventory flow.

Mobile Inspectors build strong relationships with dealer clients by delivering consistent, highquality inspections, acting as brand ambassadors for Cox Automotive, and actively engaging dealers to grow participation in Manheim's mobile inspection services.

This role requires the ability to work with minimal supervision while demonstrating increasing independence, sound judgment, and problemsolving skills.

Primary Responsibilities & Essential Functions

Vehicle Inspection & Documentation

Conduct thorough vehicle inspections in accordance with Manheim inspection standards.

Locate, start, move, inspect, and return vehicles safely on dealer client lots.

Verify vehicle identification, VINs, mileage, subseries, and options; ensure accurate system entry.

Inspect and document vehicle exterior condition, including tires, frame, glass, panels, and mechanical components.

Inspect and document interior condition, including seating, dashboard, and installed options.

Perform basic mechanical checks across powertrain, drivetrain, and electrical components.

Identify and document damage, missing components, or inoperable features.

Client Engagement & Territory Management

Build trust with dealer clients through consistent quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.

Educate clients on the value of Manheim Marketplace and mobile inspection services.

Proactively engage with dealers to increase inspection volume and maintain active participation.

Leverage data, insights, and partner input to maximize inspection efficiency and territory productivity.

Adapt to changes in daily appointments and schedules to ensure effective dealer coverage.

Reporting, Tools & Collaboration

Prepare and submit daily activity and production reports.

Utilize Salesforce.com for reporting, lead management, and customer performance tracking.

Collaborate closely with Wholesale Specialists, peers, and other Manheim teams to support client success.

Work effectively within a continuous improvement and Lean environment, contributing to process enhancement.

Safety, Compliance & Standards

Maintain production expectations as established by leadership.

Demonstrate a visible commitment to safety by following all safety and health procedures.

Participate actively in Safety Excellence initiatives.

Comply with Manheim inspection standards, including the NAAA Frame/Structure Damage Policy.

Perform other duties as assigned.

RoleSpecific Requirements

Mobile Inspector - Level 1

Summary
Entrylevel role responsible for conducting vehicle inspections under established processes while learning Manheim inspection standards, tools, and client engagement practices.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED required

Minimal automotive knowledge preferred (body and mechanical)

0-1 years of automotiverelated experience preferred

Valid driver's license with a safe driving record required

Ability to meet physical and mental demands of the role within required timeframes

Key Responsibilities

Conduct basic vehicle inspections with accuracy and attention to detail

Safely move and handle vehicles on dealer lots

Accurately document vehicle condition and data in inspection systems

Develop working knowledge of inspection standards and client expectations

Mobile Inspector - Level 2

Summary
Intermediate role responsible for independently managing assigned inspection activity, delivering highquality inspections, and supporting growth within the assigned territory.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED plus 3+ years of experience in a related field. The right candidate could also have a different combination, such as any level degree/certification beyond a HS diploma/GED; or 5 years' experience in a related field.

1-2 years of automotiverelated experience preferred

Valid driver's license with a safe driving record required

Ability to meet physical and mental demands of the role within required timeframes

Key Responsibilities

Independently conduct detailed and complex vehicle inspections

Manage daily inspection schedules efficiently across dealer locations

Build strong working relationships with dealer clients

Utilize data and insights to expand inspection volume and efficiency

Support continuous improvement initiatives and team collaboration

Mobile Inspector - Senior Level

Summary
Senior role responsible for advanced vehicle inspections, mentoring peers, and serving as a trusted inspection professional within the assigned territory.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma/GED plus 5 years' experience in a related field. The right candidate could also have a different combination, such as any level degree/certification beyond a HS diploma/GED and 3 years' experience; or 7 years' experience in related field.

Previous vehicle inspection experience required

Strong automotive knowledge (body and mechanical) required

2-3 years of automotiverelated experience strongly preferred

1 year of service with Manheim Inspections recommended

Valid driver's license with a safe driving record required

Ability to meet physical and mental demands of the role within required timeframes

Key Responsibilities

Perform advanced and highcomplexity vehicle inspections

Serve as a subject matter resource for inspection standards and best practices

Support onboarding and development of less experienced Mobile Inspectors

Maintain strong dealer relationships and inspection quality standards

Model safety, professionalism, and operational excellence

SMCOX

To be employed in this role, you'll need to clear a pre-employment drug test. Cox Automotive does not currently administer a pre-employment drug test for marijuana for this position. However, we are a drug-free workplace, so the possession, use or being under the influence of drugs illegal under federal or state law during work hours, on company property and/or in company vehicles is prohibited.Employees are eligible to receive a minimum of sixteen hours of paid time off every month and seven paid holidays throughout the calendar year. Employees are also eligible for additional paid time off in the form of bereavement leave, time off to vote, jury duty leave, volunteer time off, military leave, and parental leave.Through groundbreaking technology and a commitment to stellar experiences for drivers and dealers alike, Cox Automotive employees are transforming the way the world buys, owns, sells - or simply uses - cars. Cox Automotive employees get to work on iconic consumer brands like Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book and industry-leading dealer-facing companies like vAuto and Manheim, all while enjoying the people-centered atmosphere that is central to our life at Cox. Benefits of working at Cox may include health care insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement planning (401(k)), and paid days off (sick leave, parental leave, flexible vacation/wellness days, and/or PTO). For more details on what benefits you may be offered, visit our benefits page. Cox is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer - All qualified applicants/employees will receive consideration for employment without regard to that individual's age, race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, physical or mental disability, veteran status, genetic information, ethnicity, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law. Cox provides reasonable accommodations when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with disability, unless such accommodations would cause an undue hardship.EOE, including disability/vetsApplicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States for any employer without current or future sponsorship. No OPT, CPT, STEM/OPT or visa sponsorship now or in future.