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Body Shop Estimator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Body Shop Estimator

South Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$45K - $100K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Body Shop Estimator About the Role The Body Shop Estimator is responsible for inspecting damaged vehicles, preparing accurate repair estimates, and managing the repair ...

Body Shop Estimator Greet customers and quickly assess their needs understanding the difficulty of their situation. Customer service is a top priority; it's our job to turn that difficult situation ...

Body Shop Estimator Greet customers and quickly assess their needs understanding the difficulty of their situation. Customer service is a top priority; it's our job to turn that difficult situation ...

Body Shop Estimator

Springdale, AR · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Body Shop Estimator - Lewis Collision Center Lewis Collision Center is seeking an experienced Body Shop Estimator to join the Lewis Auto Group team. This is an opportunity to be part of a family ...

Body Shop Estimator Greet customers and quickly assess their needs understanding the difficulty of their situation. Customer service is a top priority; it's our job to turn that difficult situation ...

Body Shop Estimator The Motor Company is a locally owned Ford dealership in Marinette, Wisconsin, and we're looking for an organized, customer-focused professional to join our team as a Body Shop ...

Body Shop Estimator Collision Repair Facility: Browning Collision Center Location: Cerritos, CA Are you an experienced Body Shop Estimator seeking a new opportunity? Browning Collision Center is ...

Our Body Shop has an immediate opening for an experienced Auto Body Shop Estimator . This is an excellent opportunity to become part of an established company in collision repair and take your career ...

Join our dynamic team at Fox Chevrolet in Caledonia, MI as a Full Time Body Shop Estimator, where your expertise will have a direct impact on our valued customers. This role offers an exciting ...

Now Hiring Body Shop Estimator The Body Shop Estimator position interacts with customers to evaluate vehicle collision and repair needs, to offer additional needed services and to estimate the repair.

Our Body Shop has an immediate opening for an experienced Auto Body Shop Estimator . This is an excellent opportunity to become part of an established company in collision repair and take your career ...

Now Hiring Body Shop Estimator The Body Shop Estimator position interacts with customers to evaluate vehicle collision and repair needs, to offer additional needed services and to estimate the repair.

Showing results 21-40

Body Shop Estimator Trainee information

See salary details

$30.5K

$65.1K

$98.5K

How much do body shop estimator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for body shop estimator trainee in the United States is $65,060.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $77,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a body shop estimator trainee during their initial months on the job?

As a Body Shop Estimator Trainee, one of the main challenges you'll encounter is accurately assessing vehicle damage and preparing precise repair estimates, especially when dealing with unfamiliar makes and models. Understanding insurance company processes and learning to use estimating software can also be demanding at first. Additionally, effective communication with customers and technicians is crucial, as you'll need to explain estimates and coordinate repairs. With hands-on experience and mentorship from seasoned estimators, most trainees overcome these hurdles within a few months.

What does a body shop estimator trainee do?

A Body Shop Estimator Trainee assists in evaluating vehicle damage and preparing cost estimates for repairs in auto body shops. They work alongside experienced estimators to learn how to inspect vehicles, document damages, and use estimating software. Their responsibilities also include communicating with customers, insurance companies, and technicians to ensure accurate repair assessments. This entry-level role is designed to provide on-the-job training and develop the skills needed to become a qualified estimator.

What is the difference between Body Shop Estimator Trainee vs Body Shop Estimator?

AspectBody Shop Estimator TraineeBody Shop Estimator
CredentialsOn-the-job training, often no formal certification required initiallyCertifications like I-CAR, ASE, or industry-specific training often required
Work EnvironmentTraining environment within auto body shops, learning on the jobFull responsibility for estimating repairs, working directly with customers and insurance companies
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting senior estimators, learning estimating software, understanding repair processesPreparing detailed repair estimates, negotiating with insurers, managing repair processes

The main difference is that a Body Shop Estimator Trainee is in a learning phase, gaining skills and experience, while a Body Shop Estimator is a fully responsible professional handling estimates independently. Trainees focus on training, whereas estimators handle the full scope of estimating tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a body shop estimator trainee?

To thrive as a Body Shop Estimator Trainee, you need a foundational understanding of automotive repair, basic math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with estimating software like CCC ONE, Mitchell, or Audatex, as well as knowledge of vehicle parts and repair procedures, is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills help you interact effectively with customers, technicians, and insurance adjusters. These abilities ensure accurate repair estimates, customer satisfaction, and efficient workflow in a fast-paced body shop environment.
What cities are hiring for Body Shop Estimator Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Body Shop Estimator Trainee job openings:
What states have the most Body Shop Estimator Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Body Shop Estimator Trainee jobs include:

Body Shop Estimator

Fury Motors

South Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$45K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Body Shop Estimator
About the Role
The Body Shop Estimator is responsible for inspecting damaged vehicles, preparing accurate repair estimates, and managing the repair approval process with customers and insurance partners. This role ensures estimates align with OEM repair procedures, insurance guidelines, and dealership standards while supporting efficient cycle time, profitability, and customer satisfaction. The Estimator works closely with technicians, painters, parts, and the Body Shop Manager to ensure timely and high-quality collision repairs.
Essential Functions / Key Responsibilities
Vehicle Inspection & Estimating
  • Inspect damaged vehicles to determine repair needs and scope of work.
  • Prepare accurate, detailed repair estimates using approved estimating systems (e.g., CCC, Mitchell, Audatex).
  • Identify structural, cosmetic, and mechanical damage in accordance with OEM repair procedures.
  • Document damage with photos and notes to support insurance and internal review.

Insurance & Customer Coordination
  • Communicate repair plans, timelines, and estimates to customers clearly and professionally.
  • Work directly with insurance adjusters to negotiate estimates, supplements, and approvals.
  • Submit and track supplements as additional damage is identified during repairs.
  • Maintain strong relationships with DRP partners and insurance representatives.

Repair Process & Workflow Management
  • Coordinate repair workflow with technicians, painters, parts, and sublet vendors.
  • Monitor repair progress and adjust estimates or supplements as needed.
  • Ensure parts availability aligns with repair schedules to minimize delays.
  • Support cycle-time goals by proactively addressing bottlenecks or delays.

Quality, Compliance & Documentation
  • Ensure all estimates comply with OEM repair guidelines, insurance requirements, and dealership standards.
  • Maintain accurate and complete repair documentation in estimating and DMS systems.
  • Review final repair orders for accuracy prior to billing and vehicle delivery.
  • Support internal, insurance, and OEM audits as required.

Additional Responsibilities
  • Assist the Body Shop Manager with reporting and performance tracking.
  • Participate in training related to OEM repair procedures and estimating systems.
  • Support customer follow-up and satisfaction initiatives.

Requirements
Qualifications
  • 2+ years of body shop estimating or collision repair experience preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of OEM repair procedures and insurance estimating practices.
  • Experience with CCC, Mitchell, Audatex, or similar estimating platforms.
  • Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.

Work Environment
Body shop and office environment with frequent interaction with customers, technicians, insurance partners, and shop leadership.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, and move around vehicles for inspections.
  • Occasional bending, crouching, and lifting up to 30 lbs.

Schedule
Full-time; hours may vary based on shop workload and customer demand.
KPIs
  • Estimate Accuracy
  • Supplement Frequency & Approval Rate
  • Cycle Time Performance
  • Gross Profit & Severity Control
  • Customer Satisfaction (CSI)

Compensation
$45,000-$100,00/yr (based on experience and performance)
Salary Description
$45,000.00 to $100,000.00