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Entry Level Auto Body Estimator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wink's Body Shop

Auto Body Estimator

Ithaca, NY

$45K - $65K/yr

Weekends off Job Summary We are seeking an Estimator who will be a reliable, hard-working individual who wants to be part of a team. Must be detail oriented and able to properly manage several ...

Gerber Collision & Glass

Auto Body Estimator

Mesa, AZ

$55K - $78K/yr

The Estimator's primary responsibility and accountability is to provide an exceptional and successful customer experience while creating estimates, coordinating repair needs for customers including ...

Gerber Collision & Glass

Auto Body Estimator

Sumner, WA · On-site

$59K - $85K/yr

The Estimator's primary responsibility and accountability is to provide an exceptional and successful customer experience while creating estimates, coordinating repair needs for customers including ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Estimator

Sumner, WA · On-site

$59K - $85K/yr

The Estimator's primary responsibility and accountability is to provide an exceptional and successful customer experience while creating estimates, coordinating repair needs for customers including ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Estimator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$55K - $78K/yr

The Estimator's primary responsibility and accountability is to provide an exceptional and successful customer experience while creating estimates, coordinating repair needs for customers including ...

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Entry Level Auto Body Estimator information

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$30.5K

$65.1K

$98.5K

How much do entry level auto body estimator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level auto body estimator 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 typical challenges faced by entry level auto body estimators, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level auto body estimators often face challenges such as accurately assessing damage, understanding repair procedures, and learning to use estimating software. Gaining hands-on experience, shadowing experienced estimators, and staying up-to-date with industry standards can help overcome these hurdles. Building strong communication skills is also essential, as the role requires frequent interaction with customers, technicians, and insurance adjusters. Many employers provide on-the-job training and mentorship to support new estimators as they develop their proficiency.

What is the difference between Entry Level Auto Body Estimator vs Auto Body Technician?

AspectEntry Level Auto Body EstimatorAuto Body Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; vocational training or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, estimating software, insurance interactionsRepair shop, garage, direct vehicle repair
Primary ResponsibilitiesAssess vehicle damage, prepare estimates, communicate with insuranceRepair and replace damaged vehicle parts, perform bodywork

While both roles work in auto body repair, the Entry Level Auto Body Estimator focuses on assessing damage and preparing repair estimates, often working in an office environment. In contrast, the Auto Body Technician performs the physical repairs on vehicles. Both roles require some technical knowledge, but estimators typically need strong communication skills and familiarity with estimating software.

How much does a body shop estimator make per hour?

An entry-level auto body estimator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the size of the shop. Estimators need strong attention to detail and knowledge of estimating software to perform their duties effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Auto Body Estimator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Auto Body Estimator, you need a basic understanding of automotive repair, strong attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with estimating software like CCC ONE or Mitchell and basic computer skills are typically required. Effective communication, customer service orientation, and problem-solving abilities help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure accurate estimates, customer satisfaction, and efficient workflow in busy auto body repair environments.

Is it hard to be a collision estimator?

Entry level auto body estimators assess vehicle damage and prepare repair estimates, which requires attention to detail, knowledge of vehicle structures, and familiarity with estimating software. The role can involve a learning curve, especially for those new to the industry, but with proper training and certification, it becomes manageable. Strong communication skills and understanding insurance processes also help in performing the job effectively.

What is an entry level estimator job?

An entry level auto body estimator is responsible for assessing vehicle damage, estimating repair costs, and communicating with customers and repair shops. The role typically requires attention to detail, knowledge of auto body repair processes, and familiarity with estimating software. It often involves working in a collision repair shop environment and may require a high school diploma or equivalent.

How do you become an auto body estimator?

To become an auto body estimator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by gaining experience in auto body repair or related fields. Many estimators learn on the job or complete technical training, and certifications such as I-CAR or ASE can enhance job prospects. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of repair procedures, and familiarity with estimating software are also important.

What does an entry level auto body estimator do?

An entry level auto body estimator assesses vehicle damage after accidents and prepares cost estimates for repairs. They inspect the vehicle, document damages, determine necessary parts and labor, and communicate with customers and insurance companies. Their role is crucial in ensuring accurate repair quotes and smooth processing of insurance claims, often under the supervision of a more experienced estimator.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Auto Body Estimator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Auto Body Estimator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Body Estimator jobs? The most popular types of Auto Body Estimator jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Auto Body Estimator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Auto Body Estimator jobs include:
Entry Level Auto Body Estimator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Auto Body Estimator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,060 per year, or $31.3 per hour.
Auto Body Estimator

Auto Body Estimator

Rochester Collision Center

Rochester, MN

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

ESTIMATOR

Department: Collision

Reports to: Collision Center Assistant Manager

Job Summary

Estimators meet with guests to identify, and document needed body repair work, as well as

develop estimates and prepare repair orders.

Core Responsibilities

- Greet and educate guests on the repair process

- Complete vehicle examination with guests to ascertain body damage and required work

- Take detailed photos of damage; send to insurance if applicable

- Determine feasibility of repair vs. replacement of parts

- Estimate cost of replacement parts and labor to restore vehicle to pre-accident condition

- Prepare and explain itemized estimate to guest; address questions and/or concerns

- Partner with outside insurance adjusters to review damage estimates and update approvals

- Update customers throughout the repair process on vehicle status

- Maintain body shop records through documentation of repair and replacement actions

- Finalize repair orders; reconcile insurance approval with accounting

- Other duties and responsibilities as assigned

Job Requirements

- High school diploma or equivalent required (technical degree preferred)

- Previous collision or automotive experience preferred

- Strong communication and interpersonal skills

- Intermediate math and computer skills

- Excellent time management and organizational skills

- Valid state driver’s license & ability to be insured through RMC liability insurance required

Physical Demands

- Must be able to remain in stationary position 80%

- Frequently works in outdoor weather conditions

Universal Responsibilities

- Adhere to the Rochester Motor Cars mission, vision and values in all situations.

- Follow and utilize the Rochester Motor Cars philosophy of 1-2-3-4-5.

1. Customer Enthusiasm

2. Employee Satisfaction

3. Financial Performance

4. Market Effectiveness

5. Ongoing Improvement

- “Grow people, make friends and do good.”

- Exhibit personal excellence by setting high standard of performance. Consistently meet or

exceed quality standards and requirements.

About Rochester Motor Cars

At Rochester Motor Cars our goal is to be an industry leader and provide unmatched quality

automotive products and services. It is our mission to exceed our customers’ and employees’

expectations and maintain their loyalty for a lifetime.

Competitive compensation and benefits including medical, dental, paid time-off, STD/LTD, 401k

and life insurance are offered to full-time employees.

Job description subject to change at management’s discretion.

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