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Independent Auto Damage Appraiser Jobs in Michigan

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Independent Auto Damage Appraiser information

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$34K

$59.3K

$86.7K

How much do independent auto damage appraiser jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent auto damage appraiser in Michigan is $59,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,700.00 and $66,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an independent auto damage appraiser do?

An Independent Auto Damage Appraiser assesses vehicle damage after an accident to determine repair costs. They inspect vehicles, take photographs, and write detailed estimates using industry-standard software. Unlike insurance company staff appraisers, independents work on a contract basis for multiple clients, including insurance companies, body shops, and private vehicle owners. Their goal is to provide accurate, unbiased estimates to ensure fair settlements. Strong knowledge of vehicle repair processes and estimating software is essential for this role.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an independent auto damage appraiser?

To thrive as an Independent Auto Damage Appraiser, you need a solid understanding of vehicle construction, repair estimation, and insurance industry standards, often backed by experience in automotive repair or appraisal certifications such as I-CAR or ASE. Proficiency with digital estimating platforms like CCC One, Audatex, or Mitchell is essential for creating accurate reports and communicating with clients. Exceptional attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective negotiation and communication abilities set top performers apart in this role. These skills enable appraisers to provide precise, timely assessments while ensuring fair outcomes and maintaining professional relationships with both clients and insurers.

What does a typical workday look like for an independent auto damage appraiser?

A typical workday for an Independent Auto Damage Appraiser involves traveling to inspect vehicles at various locations such as body shops, tow yards, or customer residences, and documenting vehicle damage through photos and detailed notes. Appraisers prepare repair estimates using specialized software, communicate regularly with vehicle owners, repair shops, and insurance adjusters, and often manage multiple claims at once. The role offers a high degree of independence and requires strong time management to meet deadlines. While there can be periods of high demand after storms or accidents, many appraisers find the variety and autonomy of the work rewarding.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Independent Auto Damage Appraiser jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Auto Damage Appraiser jobs in Michigan are:

Independent Auto Damage Appraiser jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Auto Damage Appraiser job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,250 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Physical Damage Appraiser

Lapeer, MI • Hybrid

Auto Owners Insurance Company
Insurance Services • 5 - 10K employees

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 315 rated insurance

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents

Learn more about Auto Owners Insurance Companyexternal

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

A career at Auto-Owners is challenging and rewarding. Our group of caring associates create financial security by helping individuals and businesses make a new start when a loss occurs.

Job Description

Auto-Owners Insurance, a top-rated insurance carrier, is seeking an experienced and motivated Claims professional to join our team. The position requires the following, but is not limited to:

  • Inspect damaged automobiles, develop information regarding repair costs, negotiate repair cost agreements, and evaluate practicality of repair and options for settlement of claims.
  • Maintains an understanding of current automobile construction and repair techniques, assuring compliance with statutory requirements including but not limited to appropriate use of after-market parts, and repairs to automobiles with concern for safety and industry standards.
  • Communicate with claim associates, agents, insured's repair facilities and others regarding inspections and conclusions; develop and participate in required communication to vehicle owner regarding repairs, participate as necessary in negotiations, follow-up and problem resolution on claims.
  • Works towards the resolution of claims, and may attend arbitrations, mediations, depositions, or trials as necessary.
  • Handle investigations by phone, mail and on-site investigations.
  • Willing to travel and be temporarily reassigned for catastrophe duty upon request.

Desired Skills & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
  • A minimum of 3 years working as a physical damage appraiser .
  • Knowledge of CCC One software is preferred but not required
  • Above average communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Ability to resolve complex issues
  • Organize and interpret data
  • Ability to handle multiple assignments
  • Possess a valid driver's license

Benefits

Auto-Owners offers a wide range of career opportunities, and we are seeking talent that will help us continue our long tradition of success. We offer a friendly work environment, structured training program, employee mentoring and an excellent compensation/benefits package. Along with a competitive base salary, matched 401(k), fully-funded pension plan (once vested), and bonus programs, Auto-Owners also provides generous paid time off including holidays, vacation days, personal time, and sick leave. If you're looking to do rewarding work alongside great people, Auto-Owners is the place for you!

Equal Employment Opportunity

Auto-Owners Insurance is an equal opportunity employer. The Company hires, transfers, and promotes on the basis of ability, without consideration of disability, age, sex, race, color, religion, height, weight, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin, or any factor contrary to federal, state or local law.

*Please note that the ability to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship is a requirement.

#LI-KG1 #LI-Hybrid

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