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Auto Damage Trainee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Auto Damage Trainee information

See Michigan salary details

$4

$13

$15

How much do auto damage trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto damage trainee in Michigan is $13.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.73 and $15.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Auto Damage Trainee?

An Auto Damage Trainee is an entry-level professional who learns how to inspect vehicles for damage, estimate repair costs, and process insurance claims. They typically work under the supervision of experienced auto damage adjusters, gaining hands-on experience in assessing collision damages and interacting with customers. The role involves both fieldwork—inspecting vehicles at various locations—and office work, such as documenting findings and preparing reports. Training programs for this position often include classroom instruction, on-the-job training, and mentoring. Successful trainees may advance to become full-fledged auto damage adjusters or specialists.

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

To thrive as an Auto Damage Trainee, you need a solid understanding of automotive mechanics, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with estimating software, digital imaging tools, and basic office systems is commonly expected, with some roles requiring certifications like I-CAR or ASE. Strong customer service, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for success in this position. These competencies enable accurate damage assessments, efficient claims processing, and positive customer experiences in the auto insurance industry.

What is the difference between Auto Damage Trainee vs Auto Damage Adjuster?

AspectAuto Damage TraineeAuto Damage Adjuster
CertificationsOn-the-job training, possibly some industry coursesInsurance adjuster license, certifications often required
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, repair shops, insurance officesInsurance companies, claims sites, fieldwork
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning damage assessment, assisting adjustersEvaluating vehicle damage, determining repair costs

Auto Damage Trainee roles focus on training and gaining experience in damage assessment, often under supervision. Auto Damage Adjusters are responsible for evaluating vehicle damage independently and making insurance decisions. The trainee position is an entry point, while the adjuster role requires certification and experience.

What Does an Auto Damage Trainee Do?

An auto damage trainee learns about auto body damage, how to determine a repair estimate, and the process for insurance claims adjusting. An auto damage trainee receives classroom and real-world training to practice the skills needed to work as an auto damage or accident claims adjuster. Common job duties include traveling to vehicle sites such as repair shops, inspecting vehicles to assess damage, providing a cost estimate of needed repairs, and negotiating settlements with insurance clients. Their responsibilities are to honor clients’ insurance coverage while making cost-effective decisions for the company.

What are some common challenges faced by Auto Damage Trainees during their initial months on the job?

Auto Damage Trainees often encounter challenges such as learning to accurately assess various types of vehicle damage, managing a high volume of claims, and mastering the use of specialized estimating software. In the early months, trainees may also need to quickly adapt to working in different environments, such as repair shops, client locations, or outdoors in various weather conditions. Effective communication with customers, repair professionals, and team members is essential, and developing these skills can take time. Support and mentorship from experienced adjusters can help trainees navigate these challenges and build confidence in their role.
More about Auto Damage Trainee jobs
What are popular job titles related to Auto Damage Trainee jobs in Michigan? For Auto Damage Trainee jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Auto Damage Trainee jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Damage Trainee jobs in Michigan are:
Auto Damage Trainee jobs near you

Express Maintenance Technician

Labadie Auto Company

Bay City, MI • On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Company Summary:

With 80 years of business in the Great Lakes Bay Region, our family owned and operated dealerships are about more than making the sale. Operating two dealerships providing Cadillac, Buick, GMC, and Toyota to the community, we are about building relationships and providing the best customer service possible. We value the community and are proud supporters of multiple outreach programs, including the Bay Area women’s center, Salvation Army, and the American Cancer Society.

Technician Growth Opportunities: Labadie Auto Company is always looking for talented Service Technicians, at each skill level, to join our team. Depending on each technician’s level of experience will determine if you start as an Apprentice, Technician or Master Service Technician.

  • Service Technician Apprentice/Trainee 6-12 Months
    • Pay: $35K-45K yearly; Company paid starter tool program worth up to $1,000.00
    • Paid Training: Start ASE/GM/Toyota Fundamental training; Obtain 4 state certifications
  • Service Technician 12 Months to 5 Years
    • Pay: $50K-$70K yearly; Pay increases for each completed certification
    • Paid Training: Continued ASE/GM/Toyota Fundamental training 
  • Master Service Technician 5 + Years
    • Pay: 70K to 100K+ yearly
    • Paid Training: ASE Master Certified and completed GM/Toyota factory training

Job Summary: The Express Maintenance Technician responsibilities include preparing detailed vehicle service reports, replacing vehicle wiper blades and car batteries, and changing motor oil as well as transmission and brake fluid as needed. You should also be able to keep vehicle interiors clean while performing maintenance and servicing tasks. You will need to have strong mechanical skills and adhere to all safety procedures and practices.

Pay: $14.00-$17.00 an hour; Based on experience; Weekly Bonus Oppertunity.

Schedule:  Full-time 40 hours; Service hours Monday through Friday 7:30am-5:30pm. Work schedule to be established with supervisor to ensure dealership needs are met. Overtime and flexibility to work outside dealership hours when needed.

Benefits:  

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield medical insurance
  • Delta Dental
  • EyeMed Vision
  • Company paid life insurance on behalf of the employee through Principal
  • John Hancock 401k with a company match
  • Paid vacation time
  • Employee Discount

Essential Job Duties:

  • Thoroughly inspect every vehicle using inspection forms.
  • Test to check systems and components are secure and working properly.
  • Isolate the systems or components that might have caused the problem.
  • Drive the vehicle for testing purposes and inspect and refill fluid levels as necessary.
  • Ensure tire pressure for proper inflation, clean and lubricate fittings as needed.
  • Install a new oil drain plug and new oil filter and communicate oil levels to teammates.
  • Maintain efficiency and accuracy in diagnosing as well as repairing vehicles.
  • Repair or replace worn parts ahead of the vehicle’s breakdown or damage.
  • Grease necessary components of every vehicle.
  • Remove trash and breakdown cardboard from the entire shop as needed.
  • Maintain a clean work area in stalls and tire machines.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

 

Requirements/Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED (preferred)
  • One year of automotive dealership experience preferred but not required.
  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Possess a valid driver's license.
  • Eligible to be insured by Labadie’s insurance company to drive customer and company vehicles.
  • Pass a drug screen.
  • Eligible to work in the United States.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Labadie Auto Company is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with anti-discrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to effectuate these principles and mandates. Labadie Auto Company prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Labadie Auto Company conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.

https://www.labadiegm.com

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