Estimator - Semi-Trailer / Box Trucks
About The Position
The Semi-Trailer / Box Truck Estimator is responsible for inspecting damaged commercial trailers and medium-duty box trucks, preparing accurate repair estimates, and coordinating with customers, insurance carriers, and internal production teams to ensure timely and profitable repairs. This role requires strong technical knowledge of trailer systems, heavy-duty body repair procedures, parts sourcing, and labor time assessment. The Estimator serves as the primary liaison between the customer and the shop from intake through job completion
Requirements
- Experience estimating or repairing semi-trailers, box trucks, or heavy-duty commercial vehicles.
- Strong understanding of:
- Trailer structural components (crossmembers, rails, roof bows, panels)
- Aluminum and steel welding procedures
- Reefer unit floor and wall systems
- Liftgates and roll-up door systems
- Ability to read repair manuals and technical diagrams.
- Proficiency with estimating software and Microsoft Office.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- High attention to detail and organizational ability.
Nice To Haves
- 3+ years' experience estimating or repairing semi-trailers, box trucks, or heavy-duty commercial vehicles.
Responsibilities
- Vehicle Inspection & Damage Assessment
- Perform detailed inspections of semi-trailers and box trucks, including dry vans, reefers, flatbeds, liftgates, roll-up doors, and structural components.
- Identify structural, mechanical, body, and cosmetic damage.
- Document all findings with photos and detailed notes.
- Assess hidden damage and develop comprehensive repair plans.
- Estimate Preparation
- Prepare accurate, itemized repair estimates using estimating software (e.g., Mitchell, CCC, TruckSeries, or equivalent systems).
- Calculate labor hours for structural repair, welding, aluminum/stainless repair, panel replacement, flooring repair, roof repair, and paint refinishing.
- Source parts and obtain vendor pricing for OEM and aftermarket components.
- Ensure estimates meet insurance carrier requirements and shop profitability targets.
- Customer & Insurance Communication
- Communicate repair scope, timelines, and cost expectations clearly with customers.
- Negotiate supplements and approvals with insurance adjusters when additional damage is identified.
- Provide updates throughout the repair process.
- Resolve estimate discrepancies professionally and efficiently.
- Production Coordination
- Collaborate with shop foreman and technicians to verify repair feasibility and labor times.
- Write detailed repair instructions for technicians.
- Monitor repair progress and adjust estimates as necessary.
- Ensure proper documentation of supplements and change orders.
- Administrative & Financial Oversight
- Maintain accurate job files, photos, and documentation.
- Ensure estimates align with company gross profit targets.
- Review final invoices for accuracy before release.
- Assist with parts ordering and vendor coordination as needed.
Benefits
- Fantastic Culture
- 401k + match
- Health, Dental & Vision Insurance + HSA & FSA
- Employer paid Life Insurance
- Paid Vacation Time
- Sick Leave Time
- excellent Company perks such as employee discounts, company events and training program
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
101-250 employees
