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Damage Appraiser Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Material Damage Appraiser - Houston, TXPosition Summary The Material Damage Appraiser is responsible for inspecting, evaluating, negotiating, and documenting physical damage claims while delivering ...

Material Damage Appraiser - Houston, TX Position Summary The Material Damage Appraiser is responsible for inspecting, evaluating, negotiating, and documenting physical damage claims while delivering ...

Auto Damage Appraiser

Greenfield, MA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Cartelli Collision is seeking a detail-oriented MA licensed Auto Damage Appraiser to join our team in Greenfield, MA. In this role, you will be responsible for assessing vehicle damage and estimating ...

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Auto Damage Appraiser

Bangor, ME · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Mass Auto Damage Appraisers License is a plus *Computer Knowledge 1 yr appraisal experience preferred *Reliable Transportation *Customer Service Experience *Auto damage knowledge a must areas of ...

Cartelli Collision is seeking a detail-oriented MA licensed Auto Damage Appraiser to join our team in Greenfield, MA. In this role, you will be responsible for assessing vehicle damage and estimating ...

Auto Damage Appraiser

Greenfield, MA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Cartelli Collision is seeking a detail-oriented MA licensed Auto Damage Appraiser to join our team in Greenfield, MA. In this role, you will be responsible for assessing vehicle damage and estimating ...

We are currently seeking a skilled and experienced Auto Damage Appraiser to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for completing auto physical damage appraisals with precision ...

What does an AUTO DAMAGE APPRAISER do at GAINSCO? * Plan routes and travel to sites within the assigned geographic territory in a timely manner. * Inspect and appraise damaged vehicles using company ...

We are seeking an experienced Licensed Autobody Damage Appraiser. Massachusetts Licensed Damage Appraiser with at least 3 years of hands on experience. Strong knowledge of vehicle damage assessment ...

We are seeking an experienced Licensed Autobody Damage Appraiser. Massachusetts Licensed Damage Appraiser with at least 3 years of hands on experience. Strong knowledge of vehicle damage assessment ...

We are seeking an experienced Licensed Autobody Damage Appraiser. Massachusetts Licensed Damage Appraiser with at least 3 years of hands on experience. Strong knowledge of vehicle damage assessment ...

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Damage Appraiser information

See salary details

$11K

$70.8K

$92.5K

How much do damage appraiser jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for damage appraiser in the United States is $70,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $71,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a damage appraiser typically collaborate with insurance adjusters and repair technicians during the claims process?

Damage Appraisers work closely with both insurance adjusters and repair technicians to accurately assess the extent of damage to vehicles or property. They often conduct on-site inspections, document findings, and prepare detailed reports with repair estimates. Effective communication is crucial, as appraisers must clarify their assessments to adjusters and sometimes negotiate with repair shops to ensure recommended repairs are feasible and in line with policy guidelines. This collaborative effort ensures that claims are processed efficiently and fairly for all parties involved.

What is the difference between Damage Appraiser vs Insurance Adjuster?

AspectDamage AppraiserInsurance Adjuster
CertificationsOften requires state-specific licenses or certificationsRequires adjuster licenses, such as state licensing or certifications like AIC
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in the field inspecting damaged property or vehiclesField and office work, assessing claims and negotiating with clients
Industry UsageCommonly employed by insurance companies, repair shops, or independent firmsEmployed by insurance companies, public adjusting firms, or as independent adjusters

Damage Appraisers and Insurance Adjusters both evaluate property damage, often requiring similar certifications and working within the insurance industry. Damage Appraisers typically focus on inspecting and estimating repair costs for damaged property or vehicles, often working in the field. Insurance Adjusters assess claims, negotiate settlements, and may work both in the field and office. While their roles overlap, Damage Appraisers concentrate more on damage estimation, whereas Adjusters handle broader claim management.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a damage appraiser?

To thrive as a Damage Appraiser, you need expertise in vehicle repair processes, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or relevant certification in automotive estimation. Familiarity with estimating software like CCC ONE or Audatex, as well as knowledge of insurance industry standards, is essential. Strong communication, negotiation skills, and customer service abilities help build trust and resolve claims efficiently. These skills ensure accurate assessments, fair settlements, and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced environment.

What is a damage appraiser?

As a damage appraiser, you assess vehicle damage for applicants who are making insurance claims. After the appraisal process, you estimate the cost of the work needed to repair the vehicle to its pre-damage condition. Your job duties may also include determining whether it would be more cost-effective to pay off the value of the damaged vehicle rather than paying for body shop repairs. Other responsibilities include performing administrative work, such as filing and processing forms with the insurance provider and client.

What cities are hiring for Damage Appraiser jobs? Cities with the most Damage Appraiser job openings:
What states have the most Damage Appraiser jobs? States with the most job openings for Damage Appraiser jobs include:
Infographic showing various Damage Appraiser job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,767 per year, or $34 per hour.

Material Damage Appraiser

Amwins

Houston, TX

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Amwins rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

189th of 304 rated insurance


Job description

Material Damage Appraiser – Houston, TXPosition Summary

The Material Damage Appraiser is responsible for inspecting, evaluating, negotiating, and documenting physical damage claims while delivering exceptional customer service. This role requires strong technical knowledge of vehicle repair methods, estimating software, and total loss evaluations. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, organized, and able to independently manage an assigned geographic territory while maintaining quality, accuracy, and timely claim handling.

Key Responsibilities
  • Plan routes and travel efficiently within the assigned geographic territory to inspect damaged vehicles in a timely manner.
  • Inspect and appraise damaged vehicles using company guidelines, OEM repair procedures, and industry best practices.
  • Utilize estimating software to evaluate, document, and prepare accurate repair estimates for accident-related damages.
  • Negotiate repair estimates with customers' selected repair facilities while maintaining professional relationships.
  • Manage the repair process to help ensure repairs are completed accurately and within established timeframes.
  • Determine whether damaged vehicles are repairable or qualify as total losses in accordance with company guidelines.
  • Complete total loss evaluations and determine appropriate salvage values.
  • Issue payments for covered damages within established authority limits when appropriate.
  • Maintain accurate claim documentation, file notes, and timely communication with the Material Damage unit and key Claims Department personnel.
  • Contact customers promptly to schedule inspections and provide regular updates throughout the claims process.
  • Complete vehicle inspections within established service level expectations while providing accurate repair costs and estimated repair completion times.
  • Explain the appraisal process, answer customer questions, and maintain effective communication with body repair facilities.
  • Assist internal claims teams by providing expertise regarding total loss evaluations, prior unrelated damage, repairability, and other material damage matters.
  • Stay current on vehicle technology, repair procedures, OEM repair standards, and industry trends by completing required continuing education.
  • Apply a thorough understanding of the Company's Standard Claim Process and Material Damage Best Practices to ensure consistent, high-quality claim handling.
QualificationsLicenses & Certifications
  • Candidates must have a Texas or Florida Adjuster License.
  • All required licenses must be maintained in accordance with applicable state requirements.
  • Additional state adjuster licenses may be required after hire based on business needs and must be obtained within required timeframes.
  • ASE and/or I-CAR certifications are preferred but not required.
Experience
  • Minimum of five (5) years of experience writing automobile damage appraisals with an insurance carrier, independent appraisal firm, or collision repair facility.
  • Demonstrated ability to prepare accurate, comprehensive repair estimates across a wide variety of vehicle types, damage severity, and claim scenarios.
  • Strong understanding of collision repair methods, OEM repair procedures, repair-versus-replace decision making, and total loss evaluations.
  • Proficiency with automotive estimating software is required; experience with CCC ONE is strongly preferred.
  • Excellent negotiation, communication, organizational, and customer service skills.
  • Ability to independently manage an assigned territory, prioritize workload, and meet established service and quality expectations.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record and the ability to travel throughout the assigned territory.
Preferred Skills
  • Strong analytical and decision-making abilities.
  • Ability to build and maintain productive relationships with customers, repair facilities, and internal business partners.
  • Self-motivated with excellent time management and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and achieving quality claim outcomes.

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