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Auto Insurance Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Voluntary benefits include: accident insurance, critical illness insurance, hospital indemnity ... A minimum of 1 year estimating in an auto body shop required * Experience using CCC One, Mitchell ...

Voluntary benefits include: accident insurance, critical illness insurance, hospital indemnity ... A minimum of 1 year estimating in an auto body shop required * Experience using CCC One, Mitchell ...

Auto Body Estimator

Sherman Oaks, CA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

M & J AUTO BODY SERVICE INC. Type: Full-Time Salary: Competitive, based on experience ($65,000 ... insurance companies. * Provide excellent customer service by explaining estimates, answering ...

Estimator at Autobody Shop** ** ** We are seeking a meticulous and experienced Estimator to join ... with insurance adjusters to ensure that all estimates comply with industry standards and ...

Auto Body Estimator

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

M & J AUTO BODY SERVICE INC. Type: Full-Time Salary: Competitive, based on experience ($65,000 ... insurance companies. * Provide excellent customer service by explaining estimates, answering ...

M & J AUTO BODY SERVICE INC. Type: Full-Time Salary: Competitive, based on experience ($65,000 ... insurance companies. * Provide excellent customer service by explaining estimates, answering ...

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Auto Insurance Estimator information

See salary details

$36K

$78.8K

$146K

How much do auto insurance estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for auto insurance estimator in the United States is $78,849.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $98,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Auto Insurance Estimators face when assessing vehicle damage?

Auto Insurance Estimators often encounter challenges such as accurately identifying hidden damages, interpreting repair shop estimates, and keeping up with evolving vehicle technologies. Working under tight deadlines and managing multiple claims simultaneously can also be demanding. Effective communication with policyholders, repair shops, and adjusters is crucial to ensure fair and timely settlements, making interpersonal skills as important as technical expertise in this role.

What is the difference between Auto Insurance Estimator vs Auto Claims Adjuster?

AspectAuto Insurance EstimatorAuto Claims Adjuster
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some certificationsHigh school diploma; licensing often required
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, sometimes on-site at repair shopsField and office-based, inspecting vehicles and interviewing claimants
Industry UsageEstimating repair costs for insurance claimsEvaluating and settling insurance claims
Common Search IntentCalculating repair estimatesAssessing claim validity and settlement

While both roles are integral to auto insurance claims, an Auto Insurance Estimator focuses on calculating repair costs, often working closely with repair shops. An Auto Claims Adjuster evaluates claims, investigates damages, and determines claim validity. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service.

How to become an auto insurance estimator?

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

Is a collision estimator a good job?

A collision estimator is a skilled role in the auto insurance industry responsible for assessing vehicle damage and estimating repair costs. It requires knowledge of vehicle repair processes, attention to detail, and often involves working with estimating software. The job can offer steady employment and opportunities for advancement within insurance or repair shops.

What does an Auto Insurance Estimator do?

An Auto Insurance Estimator assesses vehicle damage after an accident to determine the cost of repairs for insurance claims. They inspect vehicles, review repair estimates from auto shops, and calculate how much the insurance company should pay out. Estimators also collaborate with claimants, repair shops, and insurance adjusters to ensure claims are processed accurately and efficiently. Their goal is to make sure both the customer and the insurance company are treated fairly during the claims process.

How to become an automotive estimator?

To become an automotive estimator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by gaining experience in auto body repair or insurance claims. Many estimators pursue certification through organizations like the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety or the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), and proficiency with estimating software is also important. On-the-job training and strong attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

How much do entry level estimators make?

Entry-level auto insurance estimators typically earn between $35,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on location and experience. Starting salaries may include additional benefits such as training and certification opportunities to develop skills in claims assessment and damage estimation.

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

To thrive as an Auto Insurance Estimator, you need a solid understanding of automotive repair, insurance policy knowledge, and strong analytical skills, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with estimating software like CCC ONE or Mitchell, and sometimes I-CAR certification, is typically expected. Excellent communication, negotiation, and customer service skills help you effectively interact with clients, repair shops, and insurance adjusters. These abilities are crucial for providing accurate estimates, ensuring customer satisfaction, and streamlining the claims process.
More about Auto Insurance Estimator jobs
What cities are hiring for Auto Insurance Estimator jobs? Cities with the most Auto Insurance Estimator job openings:
What states have the most Auto Insurance Estimator jobs? States with the most job openings for Auto Insurance Estimator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Auto Insurance Estimator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,849 per year, or $37.9 per hour.
Autobody Collision Estimator

Autobody Collision Estimator

Chilton Auto Body

Hayward, CA

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Collision Estimator

Department: Operations

Reports to: Location Manager

PLEASE REPLY BY INCLUDING YOUR RESUME!!

Position Summary:

The Collision Estimator is responsible for examining vehicles for collision related damage, document the time and effort required to repair and refinish vehicles back to pre-accident condition in accordance with Chilton Auto Body standards and insurance partner guidelines. Additional internal and business partner supported training a necessary. YOU MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE IN THE AUTO BODY COLLISION REPAIR INDUSTRY!!

Responsibilities:

  • Review with customers and walk-through the repair process: Greet customers by phone or in-person; explain to customers about the collision repair process, including insurance claims information, processing, and payment procedures. Educate customers regarding importance of CSI survey questions and maintain strong communication to cultivate positive CSI results.
  • Complete vehicle intake process: This includes mapping damage, photographing vehicles, and documenting files.
  • Prepare estimates and supplements: Review vehicle damage and prepare estimates. Prepare supplements based on additional damage found, including parts price increases. Ability to pull and review All data/OE procedures for Body Technicians as needed/required.
  • Follow DRP compliance: Understand and follow all insurance carrier Direct Repair Program (DRP) guidelines regarding all aspects of the repair.
  • Production Management: Support the location manager in the routing of each repair including disbursement of all paperwork, scheduling, monitoring repairs, negotiating repair times, coordinating sublet work and all other aspects of the repair.
  • Quality Assurance: Ensure Chilton Auto Body's quality standards are met throughout the repair process and before the vehicle is delivered to the customer.
  • File Documentation: Maintain real time accuracy of assigned work files and reconcile for customer delivery and file closing process.
  • Training: Complete assigned training through Collision University. Addition internal and business partner supported training as needed.
  • Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Job duties/Job description may be adjusted or added based on the needs of the business or at management discretion


Requirements:

  • Ability to work collaboratively with the team to meet shared objectives.
  • 2 years' prior collision experience.
  • Effective time-management.
  • Able to multitask and manage competing priorities.
  • Communicate effectively with teammates, customers, and business partners.
  • CCC One Experience.
  • Valid drivers' license required.
  • Eligible to work in the United States.
  • Willing and able to pass a thorough background check.
  • Flexible to work an 8-hour shift between 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bilingual (Spanish).