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Damage Appraiser Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Collision Estimator

Ypsilanti, MI · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

The Estimator accurately assesses the damage of vehicles and documents needed repairs and parts replacement on the damage appraisal. The Estimator plays a pivotal role in the success of the customer ...

Collision Estimator

Ypsilanti, MI · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

The Estimator accurately assesses the damage of vehicles and documents needed repairs and parts replacement on the damage appraisal. The Estimator plays a pivotal role in the success of the customer ...

Collision Estimator

Rockford, MI · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Must possess a Motor Vehicle Physical Damage Appraisers License ABILITIES/SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE * Ability to do consistent physical activity - reach below and above shoulder level, kneeling, bending, and ...

Collision Estimator

Rockford, MI · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Must possess a Motor Vehicle Physical Damage Appraisers License ABILITIES/SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE * Ability to do consistent physical activity - reach below and above shoulder level, kneeling, bending, and ...

Collision Estimator

Wyoming, MI · On-site

$50 - $100/hr

The Estimator accurately assesses the damage of vehicles and documents needed repairs and parts replacement on the damage appraisal. The Estimator plays a pivotal role in the success of the customer ...

Showing results 41-60

Damage Appraiser information

See Michigan salary details

$9.6K

$61.7K

$80.6K

How much do damage appraiser jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for damage appraiser in Michigan is $61,681.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,900.00 and $61,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

Are damage appraisers in demand right now?

Damage appraisers are in steady demand due to ongoing needs in insurance claims, property assessments, and disaster response. The role often requires knowledge of estimating software and industry certifications, and employment opportunities are influenced by the frequency of insurance claims and natural disasters.

What are popular job titles related to Damage Appraiser jobs in Michigan?

For Damage Appraiser jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Damage Appraiser jobs in MI?

For Damage Appraiser jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Damage Appraiser job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,681 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Senior Total Loss Express Auto Appraiser - Michigan

USAA

Niles, MI • On-site, Remote

$63K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


USAA rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 265 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 175 rated banks


Job description

Why USAA?

At USAA, our mission is to empower our members to achieve financial security through highly competitive products, exceptional service and trusted advice. We seek to be the #1 choice for the military community and their families.

Embrace a fulfilling career at USAA, where our core values - honesty, integrity, loyalty and service - define how we treat each other and our members. Be part of what truly makes us special and impactful.

We are proud to support active-duty military spouses. USAA roles may offer remote or hybrid flexibility for active-duty military spouses consistent with applicable policy and business needs.

The Opportunity

As a Sr. Total Loss Express Auto Appraiser, within defined guidelines and framework, will be responsible for the investigation, negotiation, evaluation and appraisal of vehicle damage claims for both repairable and total loss vehicles to ensure estimate accuracy in compliance with state laws and regulations. Accountable for delivering exceptional member service through setting appropriate expectations, proactive communications, advice, and empathy.

This role is remote eligible in the state of Michigan with occasional business travel.

What you'll do:

  • With the use of digital tools, evaluates and appraise highly complex auto physical damage claims in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract, corporate guidelines and state laws and regulations.

  • Investigates claim damages including communicating with the insured, internal claims adjusters, and third parties/vendors. May require face-to-face interactions with members and third parties.

  • Reviews facts of loss and vehicle damage to determine if subrogation opportunities exist and ensures all supporting physical damage documentation is in the claim.

  • Demonstrates advanced knowledge of P&C insurance industry products, services, contracts, and internal processes/systems/procedures to ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and policy provisions.

  • Reviews claims/suppliers for fraud indicators and refers to Special Investigations Unit for handling, if applicable.

  • Maintains accurate and current claim file documentation throughout the claims process for complex claims.

  • Maintains high standards of productivity through effective desk management, timely follow ups, and accurate mapping of repair plan and timeline for repair in support of fast and accurate claims adjudication.

  • Responsible for reviewing additional damages received from repair facilities to either complete a supplement or triage to field provider method of inspection.

  • May serve as a subject matter expert representative for disputed claims or trials. Serves as a resource for team members on escalated issues of a routine nature.

  • Partners with vendors and internal business partners to facilitate highest complexity claims resolution. May also involve external regulatory coordination to ensure appropriate documentation and compliance.

  • Proactively provides policyholders with information regarding their coverage, repair estimate or total loss valuation, and claims/repair process while setting appropriate expectations.

  • Supports workload surges and catastrophe (CAT) response operations as needed, including mandatory on-call dates and potential evening, weekend, and/or holiday work outside normal work hours.

  • May be assigned CAT deployment travel with minimal notice during designated CATs.

  • Works various types of claims, including ones of higher complexity, and may be assigned additional work outside normal duties as needed.

  • Ensure risks associated with business activities are effectively identified, measured, monitored, and controlled in accordance with risk and compliance policies and procedures.

What you have:

  • High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma.

  • 2 years of auto appraising experience.

  • Proficient knowledge of P&C insurance policy contracts and coverages, auto parts distribution process and claim appraisal process and procedures.

  • Advanced working knowledge of estimating losses using CCC or similar estimating platforms.

  • Demonstrated written and verbal skills to communicate with members, claimants, repair facilities, and other internal and external stakeholders.

  • Acquisition and maintenance of insurance adjuster license within 90 days and 3 attempts.

What sets you apart:

  • US military experience gained through military service or gained as a military spouse / domestic partner

  • I-CAR certification

Compensation range: The salary range for this position is: $63,590 - $121,530.

USAA does not provide visa sponsorship for this role. Please do not apply for this role if at any time (now or in the future) you will need immigration support (i.e., H-1B, TN, STEM OPT Training Plans, etc.).

Compensation: USAA has an effective process for assessing market data and establishing ranges to ensure we remain competitive. You are paid within the salary range based on your experience and market data of the position. The actual salary for this role may vary by location.

Employees may be eligible for pay incentives based on overall corporate and individual performance and at the discretion of the USAA Board of Directors.

The above description reflects the details considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job and should not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be performed in the job.

Benefits: At USAA our employees enjoy best-in-class benefits to support their physical, financial, and emotional wellness. These benefits include comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans, 401(k), pension, life insurance, parental benefits, adoption assistance, paid time off program with paid holidays plus 16 paid volunteer hours, and various wellness programs. Additionally, our career path planning and continuing education assists employees with their professional goals.

For more details on our outstanding benefits, visit our benefits page on USAAjobs.com

Applications for this position are accepted on an ongoing basis, this posting will remain open until the position is filled. Thus, interested candidates are encouraged to apply the same day they view this posting.

USAA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.


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