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Auto Body Estimator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Menifee, CA · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

The Auto Body Technician's primary responsibility and accountability includes providing an ... Plans the repair work that is necessary and prepares cost estimates for customers. Uses various ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Menifee, CA

$25.50 - $35.50/hr

The Auto Body Technician's primary responsibility and accountability includes providing an ... Plans the repair work that is necessary and prepares cost estimates for customers. Uses various ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Menifee, CA · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

The Auto Body Technician's primary responsibility and accountability includes providing an ... Plans the repair work that is necessary and prepares cost estimates for customers. Uses various ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Menifee, CA

$25.50 - $35.50/hr

The Auto Body Technician's primary responsibility and accountability includes providing an ... Plans the repair work that is necessary and prepares cost estimates for customers. Uses various ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Menifee, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $35.50/hr

The Auto Body Technician's primary responsibility and accountability includes providing an ... Plans the repair work that is necessary and prepares cost estimates for customers. Uses various ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Menifee, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $35.50/hr

The Auto Body Technician's primary responsibility and accountability includes providing an ... Plans the repair work that is necessary and prepares cost estimates for customers. Uses various ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Menifee, CA

$25.50 - $35.50/hr

The Auto Body Technician's primary responsibility and accountability includes providing an ... Plans the repair work that is necessary and prepares cost estimates for customers. Uses various ...

Puget Collision

Estimator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$75K - $130K/yr

The Auto Collision Repair Estimator is a skilled hourly/commission position that must be an ... Write a comprehensive auto body collision repair plan after disassembling the vehicle. * Ensure ...

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All JobsAuto Body Estimator JobsAuto Body Estimator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Auto Body Estimator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$31.8K

$67.9K

$102.8K

How much do auto body estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for auto body estimator in Riverside, CA is $67,875.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,200.00 and $80,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectAuto Body EstimatorAuto Body Technician
Primary RoleAssessing vehicle damage and preparing repair estimatesPerforming repairs and restoring vehicles to original condition
Required SkillsDamage assessment, estimating software, communicationMechanical skills, repair techniques, tools operation
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, insurance interactions, repair shopsRepair bays, workshops, hands-on work
CertificationsEstimating certifications, possibly I-CAR or ASEI-CAR, ASE certifications often preferred

While both roles are essential in auto body repair, the Auto Body Estimator focuses on assessing damage and preparing repair estimates, often working with insurance companies. The Auto Body Technician performs the actual repairs on vehicles. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some common challenges Auto Body Estimators face when coordinating repairs with technicians and insurance adjusters?

Auto Body Estimators often encounter challenges such as ensuring clear communication between repair technicians and insurance adjusters, especially when there are discrepancies between initial estimates and actual repairs needed. They must balance customer expectations, insurance guidelines, and shop capabilities, frequently updating estimates as new damage is discovered. Staying organized and detail-oriented is crucial, as is the ability to negotiate and advocate for necessary repairs while maintaining positive relationships with all parties involved.

What does an Auto Body Estimator do?

An Auto Body Estimator assesses vehicle damage after an accident to determine the cost of repairs. They inspect vehicles, document damages, and prepare detailed estimates for repair work, often using specialized software. Estimators communicate with customers, insurance companies, and repair technicians to ensure that all necessary repairs are identified and accurately priced. Their role is crucial in ensuring repairs are completed efficiently and within budget.

What Does an Auto Body Estimator Do?

The job of an auto body estimator is to evaluate the cost of collision repair service for each car brought to a shop. They may check the vehicle owner's insurance, collect information on the price of parts, determine what repairs are necessary, and handle special requests. An auto body estimator frequently works directly with customers, uses electronic pricing and scheduling systems, helps develop repair plans, and reviews guidelines from insurance companies and vehicle manufacturers. Their responsibilities are to make repair decisions and coordinate the timing of work to ensure car repairs are completed as quickly as possible.

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

To thrive as an Auto Body Estimator, you need a solid understanding of vehicle repair processes, automotive parts, and insurance procedures, often supported by experience in collision repair or a related field. Proficiency with estimating software such as CCC ONE, Mitchell, or Audatex, and sometimes I-CAR certification, is typically required. Excellent customer service, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help estimators effectively interact with clients and repair teams. These skills ensure accurate repair assessments, customer satisfaction, and efficient workflow within auto body shops.
More about Auto Body Estimator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Body Estimator jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Auto Body Estimator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Auto Body Estimator jobs in Riverside, CA? For Auto Body Estimator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Auto Body Estimator jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Body Estimator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Auto Body Estimator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Auto Body Estimator job openings:
Auto Body Estimator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Body Estimator job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,875 per year, or $32.6 per hour.
Experienced Auto Body Shop Estimator

Experienced Auto Body Shop Estimator

Smart Prep Automotive Reconditioning, Inc

Riverside, CA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Competitive salary
  • Paid time off

Smart Prep Automotive Reconditioning is looking for an experienced estimator to add to our team. We are looking for a team member with great customer relation skills and who is willing and able to handle insurance claims as well as customer pay projects.
The ideal team member will have at least 2 years of experience estimating in a body shop. They will be communicative and easy to work with. They will be knowledgeable in dealing with insurance companies and adjustors. They will know how to use an estimating system. The ideal team member will be fluent in handling insurance claims and customer communications. We are looking for an active participant in the shop work flow, so the ideal candidate must be able and willing to move around the shop and office areas.
Job Responsibilities
  •  Communicate with customers every step of the way.
  •  Answer customer calls, schedule and check in their vehicles. Schedule Pick-ups and ensure delivery.
  •  Inspect, analyze and evaluate damaged vehicles to create a comprehensive and accurate damage report. Use this information to assemble estimates and supplements appropriately.
  • Communicate with body shop personnel to ensure that estimates are understood and that all repairs are known and carried out by all team members.
  • Oversee repair process of each individual unit to ensure that any and all supplements are correct and submitted.
  • Acquire parts needed based off estimates as well as what is found by body shop team.
  • Inspect vehicle after repairs are completed to ensure that all repairs have been done, that vehicle is safety compliant, and that no further supplements are needed.
  • Ability to work outside during summer months when vehicles need inspection or repair plan updates.
  • Estimator is responsible for the vehicle's appearance upon deliver. Ability to thoroughly QC a finish vehicle is vital.

 Required Experience 
  • Minimum 2 years experience as an automotive estimator.
  • Knowledge of CCC1 estimating system.
  • Knowledge in all aspects of automotive repair and maintenance
  • Willing to submit to a background check and drug screen prior to employment.
  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record that is acceptable to our policies.
  • Experience with Microsoft suite
Preferred Experience 
  • Knowledge of Mitchell estimating system.
  • Previous experience with fleet accounts (i.e. Fleet Response, Hertz, U-Haul, etc)
  • Knowledge of DRP procedures
  • Knowledge of price matching software (OPS Trax)
  • Knowledge of AllData and ability to verify OE procedural repairs

Smart Prep is a family owned and operated Collision shop. We pride ourselves on our work environment and the happiness of our team. We are looking for a team member who understands the importance of the relationships both in the office and out in the shop.
Our schedule is M-F 8am-5pm. 
Please let us know any certifications you may have.
Resumes are required and interviews will be in person on location. 
We look forward to meeting you!