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Collision Estimator Trainee Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Mobile Auto Technician

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$77K - $95K/yr

Essential Job Duties * Assist service managers and estimators in providing documentation for any ... Conduct training and test trainees. * Work with managers and determine needed training on the use ...

Essential Job Duties * Assist service managers and estimators in providing documentation for any ... Conduct training and test trainees. * Work with managers anddetermine needed training on theuse of ...

Collision Estimator Trainee information

What is the difference between Collision Estimator Trainee vs Collision Estimator?

AspectCollision Estimator TraineeCollision Estimator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingExperience in estimating; industry certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, entry-levelFull responsibility for estimating, client interaction, independent work
Employer UsageUsed in auto body shops and collision centers for trainingEstablished role in collision repair facilities

The main difference is that a Collision Estimator Trainee is in training and gaining experience, while a Collision Estimator is fully responsible for creating repair estimates and managing customer interactions. Trainees work under supervision, whereas estimators operate independently with more industry experience.

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

To thrive as a Collision Estimator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of automotive repair, strong math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with estimating software like CCC ONE or Mitchell, as well as basic computer proficiency, is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure help trainees excel when interacting with customers and repair teams. These skills are crucial for accurately assessing damage, ensuring customer satisfaction, and supporting efficient repair processes.

What challenges might a collision estimator trainee face when learning to accurately assess vehicle damage?

As a Collision Estimator Trainee, one common challenge is developing the expertise to distinguish between visible and hidden damages, which requires keen observation and understanding of vehicle structure. Trainees often need to quickly learn how to use estimating software and interpret repair manuals, all while communicating clearly with both customers and technicians. Balancing accuracy with efficiency is crucial, as is adapting to fast-paced environments and frequent updates in repair methods. Support from experienced estimators and ongoing training typically helps trainees overcome these challenges.

What is a collision estimator trainee?

A Collision Estimator Trainee is an entry-level professional in the auto body repair industry who is learning how to assess vehicle damage after accidents and estimate repair costs. They work under the supervision of experienced collision estimators to develop skills in inspecting vehicles, documenting damage, preparing repair estimates, and communicating with customers and insurance companies. This role is essential for ensuring that repair costs are accurate and that the repair process runs smoothly. Trainees often receive on-the-job training and may progress to a full estimator position after gaining sufficient experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Collision Estimator jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Collision Estimator jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Collision Estimator Trainee jobs in Indiana? For Collision Estimator Trainee jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Collision Estimator Trainee jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Collision Estimator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Collision Estimator Trainee job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Mobile Auto Technician

LKQ Corporation

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

$77K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


LKQ rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 173 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

341st of 408 rated retail wholesalers


Job description

Join the LKQ Family! We're looking for motivated individuals to join our team at LKQ Corporation. With opportunities for growth, competitive benefits, and a supportive work environment, LKQ is the place to be. Apply now and take the first step toward a rewarding career!
Attention Automotive Technicians!
Are you the problem solver at work? Are you looking for new challenges? Or maybe the next level in your career? Want to earn industry top pay? Want to have weekends off?
Elitek Vehicle Services, an LKQ company, may be your answer.
Elitek, an LKQ Company, is at the forefront of getting drivers back on the road faster. Our experienced field technicians, combined with cutting-edge remote automotive diagnostic technologies, empower efficient automotive repairs adding value to our automotive repair customers.
We are the leading vehicle diagnostics, calibration, electronics, and mechanical sublet service provider in the industry. Servicing thousands of repair facilities and customers and growing throughout the United States, customer service and technical expertise are our top priorities.
Our unique sublet services performing electronic and mechanical repairs and programming make us the go-to partner for many mechanical and collision repair shops' needs. This is an exciting career opportunity for those passionate technicians looking to grow in their field or feel they have reached the top in their industry and want to see what is next in earnings potential and independence within the automotive service industry.
To learn more about Elitek Vehicle Services, visit www.elitekauto.com
Compensation:
$77,000 - $95,000 annually, depending on experience.
Essential Job Duties
  • Assist service managers and estimators in providing documentation for any mechanical or electronic repairs services needed.
  • Conduct training and test trainees.
  • Work with managers and determine needed training on the use of hardware and software tools or workflow.
  • Perform bumper-to-bumper mechanical and electrical repairs.
  • Develop relationships with new customers and provide a high level of service to existing customers to maintain customer relationships.
  • Assume other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities
  • Not responsible for supervising employees.

Basic Qualifications
Education & Experience
  • High school diploma and relevant certification.
  • 5+ years of automotive repair experience.
  • Possess a valid driver's license and safe driving record.
  • Must qualify for corporate insurance programs, including vehicle insurance.
  • Must pass pre-employment drug screening.
  • Must be at least 21 years of age.
  • Ability to develop relationships with new customers to increase market share.
  • Proficient use of a variety of automotive services and diagnostic equipment.

Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rates, ratios, and percentages and to draw and interpret graphs.
  • Frequent use of Outlook, Word, Excel, graphics, etc. Ability to create, maintain and incorporate functions into Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, databases, and PowerPoint presentations to support business objectives.
  • Regularly uses moderately complex oral and written skills. May train others in functional areas, interact with others and make presentations to department or middle management.
  • Problems encountered are routine, somewhat repetitive and generally solved by following clear directions and procedures.
  • Decisions generally affect one's job or assigned functional area.
  • Results are defined; sets personal own goals and determines how to achieve results with few or no guidelines to follow; supervisor/manager provides broad guidance and overall direction.
  • Handle multiple tasks or projects simultaneously with moderate complexity.

Essential Physical Demands/Work Environment
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, push, pull, squat, bend, reach, climb stairs, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or sit for extended periods.
  • The employee may be exposed to hazardous situations, conditions, and equipment. Must be able to work in cramped spaces or underneath vehicles that may require getting into awkward positions. May regularly wear personal protective equipment (PPE). May be exposed to extreme temperatures and high noise levels.
  • Travel may be required periodically, including overnight stays (contingent on position requirements).
  • Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds.
  • Some positions in this classification may involve operating a motor vehicle for work-related duties. Employees assigned driving responsibilities must meet all applicable eligibility and safety requirements.

Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance plans
  • No Saturday Work! Working Days are Monday - Friday.
  • Up to 3 weeks Paid Time Off & 8 Paid Holidays
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan w/ Match
  • Company equipped Vehicle, Toll Tag, and Expense card.
  • Company Paid Basic Life Insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Provided Laptop, Phone, and internet hotspot.
  • A variety of service-related mechanical equipment.
  • Generic and Manufacturer specific dealer software and hardware.

Join us for an exciting career journey with positive, driven individuals.

What LKQ employees say

Pay

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About LKQ

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

LKQ Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, IL, US is a global leader in the auto parts industry. The company specializes in offering alternative auto parts and systems to repair and accessorize automobiles and other vehicles. Founded in 1998, LKQ has accumulated extensive expertise in vehicle product resources, offering recycled automotive and truck parts, refurbished components, and reconditioned pieces. Beyond replacement parts, LKQ also offers a wide range of services, including aftermarket, recycled, and remanufactured mechanical and collision auto parts. This unique approach of the corporation embodies their mission that focuses on providing cost-effective alternatives to new car parts while also prioritizing environmental sustainability.

Industry

Automobile dealers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1998