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Collision Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Collision Repair Specialist II with Penske, you'll perform diagnostic procedures and truck and ... investigation (to include past employment, education, and criminal history) and drug screening are ...

As an experienced Collision Repair Specialist I with Penske, you'll use industry-leading technology ... investigation (to include past employment, education, and criminal history) and drug screening are ...

As a Penske Collision Repair Appraiser you are responsible for writing collision repair estimates ... investigation (to include past employment, education, and criminal history) and drug screening are ...

As a Penske Collision Repair Appraiser you are responsible for writing collision repair estimates ... investigation (to include past employment, education, and criminal history) and drug screening are ...

As a Penske Collision Repair Appraiser you are responsible for writing collision repair estimates ... investigation (to include past employment, education, and criminal history) and drug screening are ...

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The Dominguez Firm is seeking a Sign Up Specialist/ Investigator to work directly in the field for ... Assisting in obtaining traffic collision reports as assigned; * Assisting in locating missing ...

Responds to and conducts minor traffic collision investigations. Oversees the department's drone program, including the maintenance, accountability, deployment, and operational readiness of all drone ...

Traffic collision investigative techniques, as required by the position. Basic City of Lacey geography (streets). How to research, organize and compile data. Driving rules and regulations. Skill in:

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Collision Investigator information

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$30.5K

$70.1K

$114K

How much do collision investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for collision investigator in the United States is $70,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Collision Investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Collision Investigator, you need a solid background in accident reconstruction, evidence collection, and investigative techniques, often supported by law enforcement experience or certifications in traffic crash investigation. Familiarity with specialized software like CAD programs, crash data retrieval tools, and digital photography equipment is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help investigators interpret evidence and present findings clearly. These skills are crucial for accurately determining the causes of collisions and supporting legal proceedings or safety improvements.

How do you become a car crash investigator?

To become a collision investigator, individuals typically need a background in criminal justice, forensic science, or engineering, along with training in accident reconstruction. Certification from organizations like the Accreditation Commission for Traffic Accident Reconstruction (ACTAR) can enhance job prospects, and investigators often work closely with law enforcement agencies or insurance companies. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of vehicle dynamics are essential for this role.

What is a Collision Investigator?

A Collision Investigator is a professional responsible for examining and analyzing road traffic accidents to determine their causes and contributing factors. They collect evidence from the scene, interview witnesses, and use technical tools to reconstruct incidents. Their work helps law enforcement agencies, insurance companies, and legal teams understand how and why collisions happen, which can inform legal proceedings and improve road safety. Collision Investigators often have backgrounds in law enforcement or engineering and are skilled in both fieldwork and technical analysis.

What are some typical challenges Collision Investigators face when gathering evidence at accident scenes?

Collision Investigators often encounter challenges such as preserving evidence in busy or hazardous environments, working under time constraints to clear roadways, and dealing with adverse weather conditions that can alter or obscure critical details. They must also coordinate effectively with law enforcement, emergency responders, and sometimes distressed individuals at the scene. Attention to detail and strong communication skills are essential to ensure all relevant data—such as skid marks, vehicle positioning, and witness statements—are accurately collected and documented.

What type of investigators make the most money?

In the field of collision investigation, senior investigators with extensive experience, specialized training, and certifications tend to earn higher salaries. Those working for government agencies or in high-crime areas may also have higher pay due to the complexity and responsibility of their work. Advanced skills in accident reconstruction and forensic analysis can further increase earning potential.

What is the difference between Collision Investigator vs Accident Reconstruction Specialist?

AspectCollision InvestigatorAccident Reconstruction Specialist
Required CredentialsForensic training, certifications in accident investigationEngineering background, certifications in accident reconstruction
Work EnvironmentCrime scenes, accident sites, forensic labsCrash sites, laboratories, courtrooms
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, government agenciesInsurance companies, law firms, consulting firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Collision Investigators and Accident Reconstruction Specialists analyze vehicle accidents, Collision Investigators focus on crime scene analysis and forensic evidence, often working within law enforcement. Accident Reconstruction Specialists typically have engineering backgrounds and reconstruct accidents to determine causes, often for legal or insurance purposes. Both roles require specialized certifications and share similar work environments, but their primary focus and employer types differ.

How to become a collision investigator?

To become a collision investigator, typically one needs a background in criminal justice, forensic science, or engineering, along with experience in accident reconstruction or law enforcement. Certification from professional organizations and proficiency with accident analysis tools and methods are often required. Relevant skills include attention to detail, analytical thinking, and knowledge of vehicle dynamics and scene documentation.
More about Collision Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Collision Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Collision Investigator job openings:
What states have the most Collision Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Collision Investigator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Collision Investigator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,123 per year, or $33.7 per hour.
Collision Repair Specialist II

Collision Repair Specialist II

Penske

Montebello, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

 
Position Summary:
Ready to move your career forward? As a Collision Repair Specialist II with Penske, you'll perform diagnostic procedures and truck and trailer collision repairs, and with supervision some major suspension, electrical, painting and welding repairs too. All while enjoying the advantages of working for a winning team that's got your back. You'll use industry-leading technology and repair techniques, plus cutting-edge diagnostic equipment to get our customers' state-of-the-art vehicles back up and running in high-quality condition. 

 
We have a talented team of collision repair specialists across North America, and we've trained all of them. We don't just help you get by; we help you get ahead. You'll have the opportunity to participate in our in-house training programs, continue to learn from the best and have access to leading technology, as Penske was the first in the industry to become I-CAR Gold certified. You'll have a career path to match your growing skills and experience, with advancement opportunities at our locations nationwide.

 
Work Location: 1465 S Greenwood Ave, Montebello, Ca
 
Work Hours: TBD
 
Why Penske is for You:
Competitive starting salary
Career stability
Opportunity for growth
Excellent benefits, including lots of time off
Advanced vehicle maintenance technology
 
Major Responsibilities:
Penske's Body Shop Technicians are responsible for all aspects of truck and trailer repair and maintenance. Duties may include the overhaul, adjustment, replacement and repair of all series of motor truck and trailer equipment including, but not limited to the following: Cab/ Sheet Metal Repair, Fiberglass Repair, Composite Bonding/ Repair, Welding/ Fabricating, Frame Straightening/ Alignment, Suspension Repair/ Alignment, Box Repair/ Replacement, Air Conditioning Systems, Electrical/ Brake/Cooling Systems, Surface Preparation, and Paint/ Mixing/ Tinting/ Blending.
Identify and determine parts required for repair of disassembled truck and trailer units
Perform all levels of Truck Collision Repair services
Identify warrantable repairs and document on repair order
Maintain work area appearance and safety
Road test vehicles when necessary
Perform duties with little or no supervision and in a timely and efficient manner
Other projects and tasks as assigned by supervisor

 
 
About Penske Truck Leasing/Transportation Solutions
Penske Truck Leasing/Transportation Solutions is a premier global transportation provider that delivers essential and innovative transportation, logistics and technology services to help companies and people move forward. With headquarters in Reading, PA, Penske and its associates are driven by a dedication to excellence and a commitment to customer success. Visit Go Penske to learn more.
Qualifications:
6 years practical experience (or an equivalent combination of related education and experience)
High School Diploma or equivalent required
Vocational/technical school preferred
Specialized training and experience in the repair/refinish of all series of truck and trailer required
Proficiency in the use of all tools of trade (including welding equipment, paint equipment, shop machines, and power tools) required
Valid driver's license required 
Basic computer skills required
The associate will be required to understand and comply with specific instructions, guidelines, rules, regulations, or other information established by Penske management
The associate must be able to perform all work adhering to DOT, OSHA, and all Penske safety and maintenance policies; including but not limited to the correct selection and use of appropriate tools, PPE, machine guarding, and established best safety practice.
Regular, predictable, full attendance is an essential function of the job
As this position requires driving Penske and customer vehicles, it is regulated by the DOT and requires a current driver qualification file to be maintained as required by the role. The driver qualification file includes: an annual motor vehicle records (MVR) check, a successfully completed DOT Physical, and Safety Performance History records request from prior employers in the last 3 years. Additionally, CDL holders will have a DOT Drug Screening within 30 days of start and subject to a FMCSA Clearinghouse review.
Willingness to travel as necessary, work the required schedule, work at the specific location required, complete Penske employment application, submit to a background investigation (to include past employment, education, and criminal history) and drug screening are required.
 
This position is regulated by the Department of Transportation or designated as safety sensitive by the company, and the ability to work in a constant state of 
alertness and in a safe manner is required. Associates must have the ability to accept responsibility for their own safety, as well as the safety of others.
 
Whether it's on the racetrack or in the body shop, our people love working here. Our supportive team culture will make you feel like you're not just getting a job, 
but joining a family. So it's time to do what you love, hit that apply button.
 
Physical Requirements:
The physical and mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the associate will be required to move frequently, stand, walk, climb, bend, and sit for extended length of time throughout their scheduled working period. 
The associate is required to use their hands on a routine and daily basis to grasp, reach, touch, handle, feel, and/or otherwise operate required tools or controls. 
The associate must be able to work safely at heights using applicable ladders and elevated working platforms.
The associate must be able to safely work in all weather conditions.
Given the frequent movement of large trucks through the workplace, the associate must be able to see and hear in order to safely navigate the work environment.
The associate must be able to regularly lift and/or move up to 50lbs/23kg and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100lbs/45kg. This position also requires the ability to push/pull truck tires on a regular basis that exceed 100 pounds.
 
Penske is an Equal Opportunity Employer

 
Pay: starting $29.50/hr DOE