1

Salvage Adjuster Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Salvage Adjuster information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$15

$21

$32

How much do salvage adjuster jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for salvage adjuster in Riverside, CA is $21.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a salvage adjuster?

Salvage adjusters are insurance professionals who assess damaged property—such as vehicles, boats, or equipment—to determine its residual value after a loss. Their primary responsibility is to evaluate the extent of damage, estimate the salvage value, and help facilitate the recovery or sale of salvageable items. Salvage adjusters often work closely with insurance companies, claimants, and salvage buyers to maximize recovery from damaged assets. They play a critical role in minimizing losses for insurers and ensuring fair settlements for policyholders.

How does a salvage adjuster typically collaborate with insurance companies and repair shops during the claims process?

A Salvage Adjuster works closely with insurance companies to evaluate the value and condition of damaged property, such as vehicles, after a claim is filed. They coordinate with repair shops to obtain repair estimates, assess whether an item should be repaired or declared a total loss, and determine the salvage value. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential, as the adjuster often serves as the liaison between insurers, repair facilities, and sometimes claimants, ensuring the process is handled efficiently and fairly. This collaborative approach helps streamline claims resolution and maximizes recovery for the insurer.

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

To thrive as a Salvage Adjuster, you need strong analytical skills, knowledge of insurance policies, and experience in asset valuation, often supported by a relevant degree or prior claims adjusting experience. Familiarity with claims management software, salvage auction platforms, and relevant certifications such as those from the Insurance Institute are typically used in this role. Outstanding negotiation, problem-solving, and communication skills help Salvage Adjusters resolve claims efficiently and liaise with clients and vendors. These abilities are crucial for maximizing recovery values, minimizing losses, and ensuring fair and accurate claims settlement.

What is the difference between Salvage Adjuster vs Insurance Claims Adjuster?

AspectSalvage AdjusterInsurance Claims Adjuster
CredentialsAdjuster license, sometimes certifications in salvage or propertyAdjuster license, certifications in insurance claims
Work EnvironmentFieldwork inspecting damaged property, salvage sitesOffice and fieldwork assessing insurance claims
Employer & IndustrySalvage companies, insurance companies, contractorsInsurance companies, third-party claims firms

While both roles involve assessing property damage, a Salvage Adjuster specializes in evaluating salvageable property after a loss, often working directly at salvage sites. An Insurance Claims Adjuster handles broader insurance claims, including damage assessment and settlement, typically working in offices or on-site. Both require licensing and industry-specific knowledge, but their focus and work environments differ.

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Salvage Adjuster jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Salvage Adjuster job openings:

Infographic showing various Salvage Adjuster job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,565 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Total Loss Specialist

Aspire General Insurance Company

Rancho Cucamonga, CA • On-site

$26.50 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description:

Open to remote candidates in the following states only: AL AZ CA FL GA IN KS LA MA MI MN MO MS NV NJ NC OK OH PA TN TX WA WI


Aspire General Insurance Company and its affiliated general agent, Aspire General Insurance Services, are on a mission to deliver affordable specialty auto coverage to drivers without compromising outstanding service.


Our company values can best be described with ABLE: to always do the right thing, be yourself, learn and evolve, and execute. Join our team where every individual takes pride in driving their role for shared success.


About the role

  • Under the direction of the Claims Department Supervisor, the Sr. Claims Support Specialist / Total loss adjuster performs the essential functions of the position, which includes but is not limited to duties as described below:

What you'll do

  • Be able to answer questions from customers concerning the claim handling process and insurance coverage.
  • Handle all aspects of resolving total loss claims for both carrier-retained salvage vehicles and owner-retained salvage vehicles in a cost-effective manner;
  • Using various resources, determine accurate total loss vehicle valuations;
  • Provide customer service to insured parties, third-party claimants, and lienholders with regard to total loss and salvage;
  • Be able to fully understand and explain the total loss process to customers and the value of their total loss vehicles;
  • Negotiate total loss settlements with customers;
  • Comply with state Department of Motor Vehicle laws pertaining to the settlement of total loss vehicles (owner retained and company retained);
  • Handle the salvage on total loss vehicles including moving vehicles to storage-free locations or salvage vendors as quickly as possible;
  • Send appropriate DMV forms and company-required documents, and review them upon return;
  • Comply with state and federal laws, Department of Insurance criteria, and insurance carrier criteria and follow Aspire General Insurance Company partner’s policies, procedures and work rules;
  • Have regular and predictable punctuality and attendance;
  • Assist the claims department by completing special projects ;
  • Other duties as assigned/requested.
Requirements:
  • 5 yrs experience in Auto Insurance in California
  • Ability to learn and understand insurance industry practices, standards, and terminology preferred;
  • Must be able to pass a background check;
  • Related insurance industry experience a plus;
  • Bilingual a plus;
  • Proficient use of Word, Excel, Outlook, Web-based systems, and type 35+ wpm;
  • Must have a disciplined approach to all job-related activities;
  • Must have a solid foundation of personal organization, sound decision-making, and analytical skills, strong interpersonal and customer service skills.


Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, 401k, Company observed Holidays


Individuals seeking employment at Aspire General Insurance Services LLC are considered without regards to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, gender identity, or sexual orientation in accordance with federal and state Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action record keeping, reporting, and other legal requirements.


Compensation may vary based on several factors, including candidate's individual skills, relevant work experience, location, etc.