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Auto Damage Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Claims Adjuster Trainee

Ontario, CA · On-site

$22.84 - $29.57/hr

We offer home, auto and accident and health insurance, as well as other specialty niche insurance ... damage As a requirement of employment, individuals who currently hold an active insurance license ...

Key Job Responsibilities * Assist in performing basic auto body repairs, including dent removal ... Must be able to visually inspect vehicle damage in a variety of weather conditions. * Must be able ...

Key Job Responsibilities * Assist in performing basic auto body repairs, including dent removal ... Must be able to visually inspect vehicle damage in a variety of weather conditions. * Must be able ...

Key Job Responsibilities * Assist in performing basic auto body repairs, including dent removal ... Must be able to visually inspect vehicle damage in a variety of weather conditions. * Must be able ...

Auto Damage Trainee information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$5

$16

$18

How much do auto damage trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto damage trainee in Riverside, CA is $16.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $18.08 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 cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Auto Damage Trainee jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Auto Damage Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Auto Damage Trainee job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,384 per year, or $16.1 per hour.
Claims Adjuster Trainee

Claims Adjuster Trainee

Allstate

Ontario, CA • On-site

$22.84 - $29.57/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Allstate Insurance rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 558 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

202nd of 281 rated insurance


Job description

National General is a part of The Allstate Corporation, which means we have the same innovative drive that keeps us a step ahead of our customers' evolving needs. We offer home, auto and accident and health insurance, as well as other specialty niche insurance products, through a large network of independent insurance agents, as well as directly to consumers.

Job Description

National General Insurance is currently hiring for an auto Telephone Claims Adjuster Trainee. Candidates must be able to work in-office at our Ontario, California location.
The Claims Inside Auto Trainee is responsible for investigating and confirming the facts of loss for automobile accidents. This role determines coverage, liability, damages and otherwise adjusts and negotiates claims within authority.

National General Insurance is currently hiring for an Auto Claims Adjuster Trainee. This is an in-office position located in our Ontario, California office.


The Claims Auto Trainee is responsible for investigating and confirming the facts of loss for automobile accidents. This role determines coverage, liability, damages, and negotiates claims within authority.


Launch your claims career by learning how to investigate, analyze, and make meaningful decisions that help people when it matters most. This trainee role offers hands-on learning and a strong foundation in auto claims.

Key Responsibilities

Handles basic investigation regarding most aspects of auto claims (coverage, liability and damages)

Identifies customer needs and works to meet those needs using appropriate customer service skills

Applies a basic understanding of systems and technology used within the company

Partners to determine subrogation or fraud potential and how to handle

Exhibits basic understanding of insurance policies written by the company, the industry, and organizational relationships within the company and department

Begins recognizing and identifying body parts of a vehicle and other potential property damage

As a requirement of employment, individuals who currently hold an active insurance license must terminate all existing appointments prior to onboarding and must not hold any outside appointments at any point during employment. Applicants seeking an adjuster role who also hold a resident producer license must formally surrender that license when instructed to by the licensing team. By proceeding with the application process, applicants acknowledge and accept these licensing requirements and agree to comply.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This job does not have supervisory duties.

#LI-MV1

Skills

Analytical Thinking, Customer Centricity, Customer Relationship Building, Customer Service, Learning Agility, Process Oriented, Results-Oriented, Time Management

Compensation

Base compensation offered for this role is $22.84/hr -- $29.57 and is based on experience and qualifications. Total compensation for this role is comprised of several factors, including the base compensation outlined above, plus incentive pay (i.e. commission, bonus, etc.), if applicable for the role.

Joining our team isn't just a job - it's an opportunity. One that takes your skills and pushes them to the next level. One that encourages you to challenge the status quo. One where you can shape the future of protection while supporting causes that mean the most to you. Joining our team means being part of something bigger - a winning team making a meaningful impact.

Effective July 1, 2014, under Indiana House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1242, it is against public policy of the State of Indiana and a discriminatory practice for an employer to discriminate against a prospective employee on the basis of status as a veteran by refusing to employ an applicant on the basis that they are a veteran of the armed forces of the United States, a member of the Indiana National Guard or a member of a reserve component.

For jobs in San Francisco, please click "here" for information regarding the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.


For jobs in Los Angeles, please click "here" for information regarding the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.

To view the "EEO Know Your Rights" poster click "here". This poster provides information concerning the laws and procedures for filing complaints of violations of the laws with the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs.

To view the FMLA poster, click "here". This poster summarizing the major provisions of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and telling employees how to file a complaint.

It is the Company's policy to employ the best qualified individuals available for all jobs. Therefore, any discriminatory action taken on account of an employee's ancestry, age, color, disability, genetic information, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual and reproductive health decision, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, race (include traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles), religion (including religious dress), sex, or sexual orientation that adversely affects an employee's terms or conditions of employment is prohibited. This policy applies to all aspects of the employment relationship, including, but not limited to, hiring, training, salary administration, promotion, job assignment, benefits, discipline, and separation of employment.

National General Holdings Corp., a member of the Allstate family of companies, is headquartered in New York City. National General traces its roots to 1939, has a financial strength rating of A- (excellent) from A.M. Best, and provides personal and commercial automobile, homeowners, umbrella, recreational vehicle, motorcycle, supplemental health, and other niche insurance products. We are a specialty personal lines insurance holding company. Through our subsidiaries, we provide a variety of insurance products, including personal and commercial automobile, homeowners, umbrella, recreational vehicle, supplemental health, lender-placed and other niche insurance products.

Companies & Partners

Direct General Auto & Life, Personal Express Insurance, Century-National Insurance, ABC Insurance Agencies, NatGen Preferred, NatGen Premier, Seattle Specialty, National General Lender Services, ARS, RAC Insurance Partners, Mountain Valley Indemnity, New Jersey Skylands, Adirondack Insurance Exchange, VelaPoint, Quotit, HealthCompare, AHCP, NHIC, Healthcare Solutions Team, North Star Marketing, Euro Accident.

Benefits

National General Holdings Corp. is an Equal Opportunity (EO) employer - Veterans/Disabled and other protected categories. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of any characteristic protected by law. Candidates must possess authorization to work in the United States, as it is not our practice to sponsor individuals for work visas. In the event you need assistance or accommodation in completing your online application, please contact NGIC main office by phone at (336) 435-2000.

Allstate provides a comprehensive technology setup, including a laptop, monitors, headset, keyboard, and mouse. Employees eligible to work from home also receive a monthly connectivity reimbursement to help offset internet costs.

When working from home, you must have a dedicated, private workspace free from distractions, along with appropriate desk and seating. Reliable internet is required, with minimum speeds of 50 MB download and 5 MB upload.


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