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Auto Inspector Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Carvana

Auto Technician/Mechanic roles ... Lube and Oil, Inspection, Brake and Tire, Mechanical Repair / Build, and Master Technician roles ...

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All JobsAuto Inspector JobsAuto Inspector Jobs in Tennessee

Auto Inspector information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$25

$52

How much do auto inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto inspector in Tennessee is $25.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $34.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Auto Inspector Do?

An automotive or auto inspector conducts inspections of new cars to ensure that they meet emissions and safety standards coming off of a production line. Some inspectors focus on investigating the vehicles involved in accidents to rule out suspect claims. The responsibilities of these inspectors include interviewing witnesses and communicating findings with insurance companies. An auto inspector also compiles a detailed list of damage to each vehicle and the estimated costs of automotive repairs. Qualifications to become an auto inspector include a high school diploma and certification or licensure in your state. Most employers prefer candidates with work experience or training as a mechanic.

How to become a vehicle condition inspector?

To become a vehicle condition inspector, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in automotive repair or inspection, and sometimes certification from a recognized agency. Familiarity with vehicle systems, safety standards, and inspection tools is essential, and some roles may require passing a state or industry-specific exam.

How much do vehicle inspectors make?

Vehicle inspectors in Pennsylvania typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience and location. Entry-level inspectors may start at lower wages, while experienced professionals or those with specialized certifications can earn higher pay. The role often requires knowledge of vehicle standards and inspection tools.

What does an Auto Inspector do?

An Auto Inspector is responsible for examining vehicles to ensure they meet safety, emissions, and regulatory standards. They check various systems such as brakes, lights, tires, and emissions controls, and may also look for signs of damage or wear that could affect a vehicle's performance or safety. Auto Inspectors often work at state inspection stations, car dealerships, or auto repair shops. Their findings help determine if a vehicle is roadworthy or if repairs are needed before it can be legally driven.

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

To thrive as an Auto Inspector, you need a thorough understanding of automotive systems, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or relevant certification in automotive technology. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, inspection checklists, and vehicle emissions testing equipment is typically required. Strong observational skills, integrity, and clear communication help inspectors accurately assess vehicle conditions and explain results to customers. These skills ensure vehicles meet safety and regulatory standards, protecting both drivers and the public.

What are some common challenges faced by Auto Inspectors during vehicle assessments?

Auto Inspectors often encounter challenges such as identifying subtle signs of hidden damage, keeping up with frequently updated safety and emissions regulations, and communicating technical findings clearly to customers or dealerships. They must also manage time effectively, as inspections can be detailed and require thorough documentation. Collaborating with mechanics, service advisors, and sometimes insurance adjusters is common, so strong interpersonal skills are helpful for resolving discrepancies and ensuring accurate reporting.

How much do vehicle inspectors make in the US?

Vehicle inspectors in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level inspectors may start lower, while experienced professionals or those with specialized certifications can earn higher wages. The job often requires knowledge of vehicle systems and inspection tools.

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

AspectAuto InspectorAuto Body Technician
CertificationsASE certifications, state inspectionsASE certifications, collision repair certifications
Work EnvironmentInspection stations, dealerships, repair shopsCollision repair shops, body shops, dealerships
Primary ResponsibilitiesInspect vehicles for safety, compliance, and qualityRepair and restore vehicle body damage
Industry UsageUsed across automotive inspection and quality controlUsed mainly in collision repair and bodywork

Auto Inspectors focus on evaluating vehicle safety and compliance through inspections, while Auto Body Technicians specialize in repairing vehicle damage. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in related environments, but their core duties differ significantly.

What type of inspector gets paid the most?

In the auto inspection field, experienced and specialized inspectors, such as those certified in emissions testing or advanced diagnostics, tend to earn higher salaries. Inspectors working for large dealerships, government agencies, or in regions with a high cost of living often receive higher pay. Certifications and technical skills can also contribute to increased earnings for auto inspectors.
More about Auto Inspector jobs
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Auto Inspector jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Auto Inspector job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Auto Inspector jobs in TN? For Auto Inspector jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Auto Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Inspector job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,907 per year, or $25.4 per hour.
Commercial Insurance Inspector- (Cookeville, TN.)

Commercial Insurance Inspector- (Cookeville, TN.)

exl

Cookeville, TN • On-site, Remote

$16 - $19.75/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

ExlService Holdings rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 430 rated business services

Job description

Job Description

EXL Risk Control is looking for self-directed independent contractors who possess excellent communication skills, computer proficiency, and a commitment to meeting client quality and timeliness standards. You will work from your own home or office, and service onsite survey/inspection assignments in the Cookeville, TN area, and other locations within approximately 150 miles of Cookeville.

Responsibilities

You will be responsible for scheduling on-site surveys and providing risk control reports to insurance industry clients. These reports contain information necessary to underwrite a commercial insurance policy and may include recommendations to control and/or correct potential loss producing conditions associated with that policy. You will be expected to manage assignments you accept, successfully secure customer appointments within a local territory and complete work assignments on time.

Our Risk Control Inspectors evaluate businesses behind the scenes to identify hazards and improve safety, mitigating risks for our insurance company clients. The type of businesses we survey are commercial operations, including retail, restaurants, hotels, apartments, construction jobsites, churches, schools, etc. Most surveys are focused on assessing the business for Property and General Liability coverage, but we also service other commercial insurance lines of business including Workers Compensation, Auto/Fleet, Products Liability, Inland Marine and Builders Risk.

Preferred experience in commercial insurance, real estate, inspection, construction, claim, loss control, underwriting, and/or fire and safety experience is a plus, but all interested candidates are encouraged to submit their qualifications. In lieu of experience, we can refer you to a 15-hour online certification option to qualify you. Fees are negotiable depending on experience and the unique aspects of selected jobs.

Tools or Items You Must Provide:

  • Digital camera or tablet
  • Computer
  • Printer
  • High speed internet access
  • Reliable vehicle
  • Measuring device such as a laser, 100 ft. tape, or measuring wheel
  • Auto and General Liability Insurance

 

All interested candidates are encouraged to apply.

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