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Vehicle Damage Appraiser Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Complete vehicle secures and confirmations, verifying appraisal details and resolving discrepancies. * Assist with inventory management, customer transfers, and lot merchandising as needed.

Complete vehicle secures and confirmations, verifying appraisal details and resolving discrepancies. * Assist with inventory management, customer transfers, and lot merchandising as needed.

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Vehicle Damage Appraiser information

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$25

$27

$29

How much do vehicle damage appraiser jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle damage appraiser in the United States is $27.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.44 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Vehicle Damage Appraiser do?

A Vehicle Damage Appraiser evaluates the extent of damage to vehicles after accidents or incidents and estimates the cost of repairs. They inspect vehicles, review photos or reports, and use specialized software to calculate repair costs. Appraisers work closely with insurance companies, repair shops, and sometimes vehicle owners to ensure accurate and fair assessments. Their work helps determine insurance payouts and guides the repair process.

What Does a Vehicle Damage Appraiser Do?

As a vehicle damage appraiser, your duties are to inspect damage to cars, trucks, heavy-duty equipment, boats, or other vehicles on behalf of an insurance company. Your responsibilities are to meet with customers, inspect the claims, document the damage you find and determine whether it is covered under specific insurance policies, and provide estimates for repairs and payouts to the customer. You recommend courses of action and costs to claims adjusters and other insurance professionals who analyze your reports to make a final assessment about payments.

What is the difference between Vehicle Damage Appraiser vs Auto Body Technician?

AspectVehicle Damage AppraiserAuto Body Technician
CredentialsInsurance certifications, state licensingTechnical training, ASE certifications
Work EnvironmentInsurance offices, vehicle inspectionsAuto repair shops, collision centers
Employer & IndustryInsurance companies, claims adjustersAuto repair shops, collision repair industry

Vehicle Damage Appraisers evaluate vehicle damage to determine repair costs and insurance claims, often working in insurance offices. Auto Body Technicians repair and restore vehicles after damage, working directly in repair shops. While both roles require technical knowledge, the appraiser focuses on assessment and estimation, whereas the technician performs repairs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vehicle Damage Appraiser, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vehicle Damage Appraiser, you need a solid understanding of automotive repair, insurance processes, and damage assessment, often supported by relevant certifications or training in auto estimating. Familiarity with estimating software like CCC ONE, Audatex, and Mitchell, as well as digital imaging tools, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, negotiation skills, and effective communication help you interact with customers, repair shops, and insurance adjusters. These skills ensure accurate damage estimates, efficient claims processing, and customer satisfaction in a competitive industry.

How does a Vehicle Damage Appraiser typically collaborate with insurance adjusters and repair shops during the claims process?

Vehicle Damage Appraisers often serve as a critical link between insurance adjusters and auto repair shops. They inspect damaged vehicles, prepare detailed estimates, and communicate findings to both parties to ensure that repairs meet industry standards and policy guidelines. Clear and timely communication is essential, as appraisers may need to negotiate costs, clarify coverage, and address discrepancies between repair shop recommendations and insurance policies. This collaborative approach helps expedite claims, minimizes customer inconvenience, and ensures both cost-effectiveness and quality repairs.
What cities are hiring for Vehicle Damage Appraiser jobs? Cities with the most Vehicle Damage Appraiser job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Vehicle Damage Appraiser jobs? The top employers for Vehicle Damage Appraiser jobs are:
What states have the most Vehicle Damage Appraiser jobs? States with the most job openings for Vehicle Damage Appraiser jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Vehicle Damage Appraiser jobs? For Vehicle Damage Appraiser jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Sr. Field Auto Damage Appraiser

$76K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Plymouth Rock Assurance rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

90th of 281 rated insurance


Job description

The Field Auto Damage Appraiser is responsible for preparing physical damage estimates on vehicles where a claim has been submitted for first- or third-party damages. This role requires delivering a high level of customer service while effectively managing claim severity and expenses.
This position supports the Independent Agent business of Plymouth Rock and services a Northern and/or parts of Central New Jersey territory. The appraiser works independently in the field inspecting damaged vehicles, preparing estimates, negotiating settlements, and ensuring compliance with company guidelines and applicable state regulations.


RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Inspect vehicle damage and prepare repair estimates for partial and total losses within assigned authority levels.
  • Negotiate settlements with repair facilities, insureds, and claimants.
  • Issue claim drafts to appropriate parties.
  • Document claim activity and maintain accurate claim files.
  • Complete re-inspections and supplemental estimates in accordance with company guidelines.
  • Adhere to production standards and estimating procedures.
  • Maintain strong customer service, expense control, and professional public relations.
  • Complete investigative reports as required.
  • Participate in team meetings and departmental initiatives.
  • Ensure compliance with privacy standards and the NJ Fair Claims Practices Act.
  • Assist with catastrophe claim handling when requested, which may include overnight travel or extended assignments, or assisting in neighboring territories.


QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree or comparable industry experience.
  • Minimum 6 years of auto claims appraisal or estimating experience required.
  • Strong communication and negotiation skills.
  • Valid driver's license with favorable driving record required.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude.
  • Organized and able to work independently with limited supervision.
  • Body shop experience a plus but not required.
  • ICAR training a plus.
  • Experience with Mitchell estimating software preferred.
  • Additional state appraiser licenses may be required (NY, PA, etc.)


SALARY RANGE

The pay range for this position is $76,000 to $100,000 annually. Actual compensation will vary based on multiple factors, including employee knowledge and experience, role scope, business needs, geographical location, and internal equity.
PERKS & BENEFITS

  • 4 weeks accrued paid time off, 8 paid national holidays per year, and 2 floating holidays
  • Low cost and excellent coverage health insurance options that start on Day 1 (medical, dental, vision)
  • Annual 401(k) Employer Contribution
  • Resources to promote Professional Development (LinkedIn Learning and licensure assistance)
  • Robust health and wellness program and fitness reimbursements
  • Various Paid Family leave options including Paid Parental Leave
  • Tuition Reimbursement


ABOUT THE COMPANY

The Plymouth Rock Company and its affiliated group of companies write and manage over $2 billion in personal and commercial auto and homeowner's insurance throughout the Northeast and mid-Atlantic, where we have built an unparalleled reputation for service. We continuously invest in technology, our employees thrive in our empowering environment, and our customers are among the most loyal in the industry. The Plymouth Rock group of companies employs more than 1,900 people and is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts.Plymouth Rock Assurance Corporation holds an A.M. Best rating of "A-/Excellent".

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