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Auto Damage Trainee Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

As a claims adjuster trainee, you'll learn how to help customers get back on the road after an ... We'll also teach you the insurance stuff - providing in-depth training on property damage and ...

Auto Damage Trainee information

See Utah salary details

$4

$14

$15

How much do auto damage trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto damage trainee in Utah is $14.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.26 and $15.77 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.
What job categories do people searching Auto Damage Trainee jobs in Utah look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Damage Trainee jobs in Utah are:
What cities in Utah are hiring for Auto Damage Trainee jobs? Cities in Utah with the most Auto Damage Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Auto Damage Trainee job openings in Utah as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,131 per year, or $14 per hour.

Claims Adjuster Trainee - Sandy UT

National Guard Employment Network

Sandy, UT • On-site

$54K - $57K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description


ATTENTION MILITARY AFFILIATED JOB SEEKERS - Our organization works with partner companies to source qualified talent for their open roles. The following position is available to Veterans, Transitioning Military, National Guard and Reserve Members, Military Spouses, Wounded Warriors, and their Caregivers. If you have the required skill set, education requirements, and experience, please click the submit button and follow the next steps.
As a claims adjuster trainee, you'll learn how to help customers get back on the road after an accident. This is not a field position, which means you'll be building relationships with customers over the phone. In a fast-paced environment, you'll learn how to resolve a full case load of claims efficiently while managing the claims process from start to finish. You'll have the support of a collaborative team and ongoing coaching from leaders. We'll also teach you the insurance stuff - providing in-depth training on property damage and insurance contracts so you can confidently and independently adjust claims.
This is a hybrid role, which means you'll work in-office two days that are selected by local leadership and choose where you want to work the other three days, whether that's at home or in the office, for a period of 12 months. After that period, the days you'll be expected to report to an office for important meetings, training, and collaboration will vary based on business need. In this hybrid work environment, you'll be supported by your leaders and tenured colleagues to develop relationships, establish connections, and share practices that are important to your development. If you prefer an in-office environment, you're welcome to work in the office as often as you would like.
Candidates must reside in or near Sandy, UT.
Duties & responsibilities (upon completion of training)
Determine coverage
Determine liability (who's at fault for the damages)
Interview customers, claimants, and witnesses
Partner with appraisers/estimators to manage vehicle repairs
Negotiate with customers and other insurance carriers and resolve claims
Additional Qualifications/Responsibilities
Must-have qualifications
Three years of work experience OR
Bachelor's degree OR
Two years work experience and an associate degree
Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9:30 am - 6:30 pm MT during training; after training, you'll work Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm MT, 8:30 am - 5:30 pm MT, or 9:00 am - 6pm MT
Location: 10150 Centennial Pkwy, Ste 310, Sandy UT 84070
Compensation
Once you complete training (which includes passing any necessary testing requirements), your salary will be $54,000 - $57,500/year, however, during training, you will be paid an hourly rate based on your annual salary
Gainshare annual cash incentive payment up to 16% of your eligible earnings based on company performance