Auto Physical Damage Appraiser

Southern Trust Insurance Company • Macon, GA

23h

About The Position

Summary Under the direction of the Claims Manager, the Physical Damage Appraiser (Desk) is responsible for reviewing, evaluating, and resolving personal and commercial auto physical damage claims of low to moderate complexity. This position performs desk-based damage evaluations using photos, estimates, and documentation submitted by vendors and repair facilities. The appraiser ensures fair, accurate, and timely claim resolution through proper estimating practices, repair methodology review, and strong file documentation. This role does not involve field inspections, bodily injury, or medical-related claims. Essential Functions Pursuant to Company business strategies and good faith claims practices: Review and evaluate auto physical damage estimates and supporting documentation for personal and commercial auto claims. Analyze photos, repair estimates, supplements, and related documentation to determine scope of damages and appropriate repair methods. Prepare, revise, and approve estimates using approved estimating software and company guidelines. Evaluate supplement requests from repair facilities for accuracy, necessity, and compliance with repair standards. Identify repair versus total loss indicators and refer total loss recommendations as appropriate. Apply depreciation, betterment, and repair methodology decisions in accordance with company standards. Identify potential salvage, subrogation, or recovery opportunities and refer to the handling adjuster when applicable. Maintain detailed, accurate, and timely claim file documentation supporting all estimate and settlement decisions. Communicate professionally with adjusters, repair facilities, vendors, and internal stakeholders to resolve estimate-related issues. Ensure compliance with state regulations, company procedures, and fair claims handling requirements.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor’s degree or technical training preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience handling auto physical damage claims, auto estimating, or collision repair-related work.
• Strong understanding of personal and commercial auto physical damage coverages and repair methodologies.
• Proficiency with auto estimating software and claims management systems.
• Ability to analyze estimates, photos, and documentation to accurately assess damages without physical inspections.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including negotiation and conflict resolution.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple files in a fast-paced desk environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and claims management systems.
• Must be available to work during disaster or catastrophe situations (including nights/weekends) as required.
• Holds a Georgia Adjuster’s License or must acquire license within required timeframe.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with OEM repair procedures and industry estimating standards is desired.
• Understanding of total loss evaluation, salvage, and recovery processes is desired.
• Knowledge of subrogation practices related to auto physical damage claims is desired.

Responsibilities

• Review and evaluate auto physical damage estimates and supporting documentation for personal and commercial auto claims.
• Analyze photos, repair estimates, supplements, and related documentation to determine scope of damages and appropriate repair methods.
• Prepare, revise, and approve estimates using approved estimating software and company guidelines.
• Evaluate supplement requests from repair facilities for accuracy, necessity, and compliance with repair standards.
• Identify repair versus total loss indicators and refer total loss recommendations as appropriate.
• Apply depreciation, betterment, and repair methodology decisions in accordance with company standards.
• Identify potential salvage, subrogation, or recovery opportunities and refer to the handling adjuster when applicable.
• Maintain detailed, accurate, and timely claim file documentation supporting all estimate and settlement decisions.
• Communicate professionally with adjusters, repair facilities, vendors, and internal stakeholders to resolve estimate-related issues.
• Ensure compliance with state regulations, company procedures, and fair claims handling requirements.

Benefits

• 401(k) company match up to 6% eligible upon hire
• Medical, dental & vision, including company paid Life insurance and long-term disability
• Health care flexible spending accounts
• Paid time off
• Parental & family leave; military leave & pay
• Employee Referral Incentive
• Career Development & Continuing Education Assistance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED