Auto Physical Damage Appraiser - Field

AAA • Santa Monica, CA

2d • $36 - $48

About The Position

This position supports the Auto Physical Damage Operation by handling material damage claims for insurance policies written by the Interinsurance Exchange, in compliance with regulatory and statutory requirements. The role analyzes and evaluates vehicle damage to prepare and review estimates, validate compliance, and determine repair costs. It communicates with members, vehicle owners, repair facilities, and other parties about the repair process and costs. Working within defined procedures and authority, the appraiser handles repairs and total-loss estimates of moderate to significant complexity, using discretion and independent judgment to analyze losses and resolve claims.

Requirements

• Advanced understanding of automotive repair processes, vehicle systems, and damage assessment; ability to accurately estimate repair costs and detailed understanding of estimating software platforms.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office, general computer software, and advanced line-of-business technical software skills, including the CCC Estimating Platform.
• Excellent organization, planning, oral communication, and written communication skills.
• Interpersonal skills and customer service experience.
• Judgment and decision-making ability to identify and resolve complex damage-assessment and repair-cost issues.
• Commitment to continuous education.
• Flexibility to assist with catastrophe duty within the extended organization.
• Valid driver's license, acceptable Department of Motor Vehicles record, and state-issued minimum liability insurance.
• Associates-, vocational-, or bachelor's-level education or an equivalent combination of education and experience is preferred.
• 4–6 years of claims experience preferred.
• 4–6 years of estimating experience preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Associates-level education or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Vocational education or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 4–6 years of claims experience.
• 4–6 years of estimating experience.
• Collision Repair & Refinish Certification Tests (B Series) from Automotive Service Excellence; I-CAR Platinum or ASE industry certifications.

Responsibilities

• Conduct physical inspections and prepare accurate, thorough vehicle repair estimates in accordance with company guidelines, industry standards, and applicable laws and regulations.
• Assess accident-related damage and determine vehicle repairability.
• Communicate with insureds, claimants, repair facilities, internal claims staff, and others; explain the claim and repair processes and applicable coverage or policy language verbally or in writing.
• Document estimated damage clearly and concisely with photographs and detailed descriptions in company claim systems.
• Negotiate within settlement authority to resolve claims, including disputes about repair costs or coverage.
• Coordinate with internal departments and respond promptly to customer needs and inquiries.
• Assist with catastrophe duties as required, including duties within the extended organization.
• Assess damage and facts of loss to determine policy obligations, investigate and distinguish allegations from facts, and independently resolve claim exposures within the assigned authority.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision health coverage.
• 401(k) savings plan with company match and pension.
• Tuition assistance.
• Floating holidays and paid time off for community volunteer programs.
• Paid parental leave.
• Wellness programs.
• Employee discounts on membership, insurance, travel, entertainment, services, and more.
• Incentive program eligibility for full-time positions, based on organization, team, and personal performance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed