1

Auto Estimator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Responsibilities As an Auto Estimator, you will collect vehicle information from repair shops or customers and complete initial and supplemental estimates via photos or in person. You may be the ...

Responsibilities As an Auto Estimator, you will collect vehicle information from repair shops or customers and complete initial and supplemental estimates via photos or in person. You may be the ...

Responsibilities As an Auto Estimator, you will collect vehicle information from repair shops or customers and complete initial and supplemental estimates via photos or in person. You may be the ...

Previous experience as a auto body estimator preferred * Knowledge of collision repair procedures and automotive systems * Experienced with software CCC, and DMS * Strong communication and customer ...

Previous experience as a auto body estimator preferred * Knowledge of collision repair procedures and automotive systems * Experienced with software CCC, and DMS * Strong communication and customer ...

Previous experience as a auto body estimator preferred * Knowledge of collision repair procedures and automotive systems * Experienced with software CCC, and DMS * Strong communication and customer ...

Previous experience as a auto body estimator preferred * Knowledge of collision repair procedures and automotive systems * Experienced with software CCC, and DMS * Strong communication and customer ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Auto Estimator information

See Michigan salary details

$30.9K

$72.3K

$117.7K

How much do auto estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for auto estimator in Michigan is $72,344.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $86,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an auto estimator?

An Auto Estimator is a professional who assesses the damage to vehicles after accidents and calculates the cost of necessary repairs. They work with auto body shops, insurance companies, and customers to evaluate the extent of damage, create repair estimates, and ensure that claims are processed accurately. Auto Estimators use specialized software and their knowledge of automotive parts and labor costs to provide fair and detailed estimates. Their role is crucial in helping customers and insurance companies make informed decisions about vehicle repairs.

What's the average salary of an auto estimator?

The average salary of an auto estimator typically ranges from $45,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the size of the employer. Auto estimators often use estimating software and may require certifications such as I-CAR or ASE to enhance earning potential.

How to become an auto estimator?

To become an auto estimator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by training or experience in auto body repair or insurance claims. Many auto estimators learn on the job or complete certification programs, such as those offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Strong attention to detail, knowledge of estimating software, and understanding of vehicle repair processes are essential skills for this role.

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

AspectAuto EstimatorAuto Body Technician
CredentialsEstimating certifications, industry-specific trainingBody repair certifications, collision repair training
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, insurance companies, repair shopsRepair bays, collision centers, auto shops
Industry UsageInsurance claims, repair cost estimationVehicle repair, bodywork, collision repair
Search/Comparison IntentEstimating, insurance, repair costAuto body repair, collision repair

Auto Estimators primarily focus on assessing vehicle damage and preparing repair estimates, often working closely with insurance companies. Auto Body Technicians perform the physical repairs on vehicles, specializing in collision and bodywork. While both roles are essential in the auto repair industry, they differ in responsibilities, skills, and work environments.

How does an auto estimator typically collaborate with repair technicians and insurance adjusters during the claims process?

Auto Estimators play a crucial liaison role between repair technicians and insurance adjusters. They work closely with repair technicians to assess vehicle damage accurately and determine the necessary repairs. Estimators also communicate findings to insurance adjusters, ensuring all required documentation and photos are provided, and may negotiate repair costs or clarify discrepancies. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as effective collaboration ensures timely claims processing and customer satisfaction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an auto estimator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Auto Estimator, you need a solid understanding of automotive repair processes, damage assessment, and insurance policies, often supported by relevant certifications or technical training. Familiarity with estimating software such as CCC ONE, Mitchell, or Audatex is typically required. Strong attention to detail, customer service abilities, and effective communication help build trust and ensure clear explanations to clients and repair teams. These skills are crucial for producing accurate estimates, facilitating smooth claim processes, and maintaining customer satisfaction.

What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Estimator jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Auto Estimator jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Auto Estimator jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Auto Estimator job openings:

Infographic showing various Auto Estimator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,344 per year, or $34.8 per hour.

Auto Estimator- East Lansing, MI

York Risk Services

East Lansing, MI

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

By joining Sedgwick, you'll be part of something truly meaningful. It's what our 33,000 colleagues do every day for people around the world who are facing the unexpected. We invite you to grow your career with us, experience our caring culture, and enjoy work-life balance. Here, there's no limit to what you can achieve.

Auto Estimator- East Lansing, MI

PRIMARY PURPOSE: To handle field appraisal assignments for our corporate fleets and insurance clients with an emphasis on Auto's.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Set appointments same day, inspect within 24 hours and write estimate car side
  • Depending on location - appraiser is expected to write 6 to 10 estimates per day
  • Ensures proper vehicle tear down
  • Determine repair time allotments and required labor operations
  • Makes accurate repair/replace decisions
  • Assess and applies pre-existing damage, completes accurate total loss evaluations
  • Negotiates agreed price with shop decision maker and sets time bound expected completion date per Client Guidelines
  • Review and assess the validity of all supplement request
  • Proactively provides customers with information regarding their vehicle's cost of repair estimate and explains claims/repair process
  • Maintains accurate vehicle's cost of repair estimate and explains claims/repair process
  • Negotiates advanced fees for tow, tear down, and storage on all vehicles that are determined to a financial total loss at a repair facility or tow yard
  • Provide extraordinary customer service to all parties involved in the claims process
  • Other duties as assigned by management or as needed.

ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS and RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • When not in the field, assist quality assurance team and be available for desk appraisal work as well

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Licensing

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university preferred (but not required). Licenses as required, as needed. Professional certifications as applicable to line-of-business preferred. If the employee is required to obtain licensing applicable to their role, they will have 60 days to complete the training and testing.

Experience

Four (4) years of insurance or body shop experience required.

Skills & Knowledge

  • Good technical knowledge of auto appraisals
  • Knowledge of client operations and labor regulations
  • Excellent oral and written communication
  • PC literate, including Microsoft Office products
  • Analytical and interpretive skills
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Excellent negotiation skills
  • Good judgment and discretion skills
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and set priorities
  • Ability to work in a team environment
  • Ability to meet or exceed Performance Competencies
  • CCC One experience

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Must be able to work independently. This is a field appraisal position and you will be responsible for managing your local territory and scheduling your work day.

Mental:Clear and conceptual thinking ability; excellent judgment, troubleshooting, problem solving, analysis, and discretion; ability to handle work-related stress; ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously; and ability to meet deadlines

Physical:Computer keyboarding, travel as required locally

Auditory/Visual:Hearing, vision and talking

The statements contained in this document are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a colleague assigned to this description. They are not intended to constitute a comprehensive list of functions, duties, or local variances. Management retains the discretion to add or to change the duties of the position at any time.

Pay Transparency disclosure: As required by law, Sedgwick provides a reasonable range of compensation for roles that may be hired in jurisdictions requiring pay transparency in job postings. Actual compensation is influenced by a wide range of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, and cost of specific location. For the jurisdiction noted in this job posting only, the range of starting pay for this role is ($55,000 - $65,000 annually) . A comprehensive benefits package is offered including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, 401k and matching, PTO, disability and life insurance, employee assistance, flexible spending or health savings account, and other additional voluntary benefits. "Always accepting applications.