Junior Repair Planner/Estimator

CSN Collision•Hamilton, ON

About The Position

The role of the Repair Planner/Estimator is to provide a detailed estimate to repair a vehicle post-collision. The estimator is responsible to many stakeholders. The estimator must have a professional demeanor to work with customers, insurers, vendors, and other team members of the repair facility. The estimator must instill confidence in the customer and provide clear expectations. The estimator must understand the effects of a collision on a vehicle and accurately identify and document damages. The detailed estimate must include factory-researched repair specifications and adhere to shop policies and insurer guidelines where applicable. This role is ideal for an individual with collision repair, parts, customer service, or estimating experience who is looking to further develop their career in repair planning and estimating. Training and support will be provided to assist the successful candidate in becoming proficient in all aspects of the role.

Requirements

Minimum 2 years of experience in the collision repair industry, automotive parts, customer service, estimating, or a related automotive role.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software applications.
Valid Driver's License.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience as a Parts Advisor, Parts Coordinator, Customer Service Representative, Collision Estimator, Repair Planner, or Auto Body Technician is considered an asset.
Experience using estimating platforms such as Mitchell Connect, Mitchell UltraMate, Audatex, CCC ONE, or similar estimating software is preferred.
Experience using parts procurement systems such as CollisionLink, PartsTrader, OE Connection, manufacturer parts portals, or similar systems is considered an asset.
Working knowledge of OEM repair procedures and repair planning principles is considered an asset.
Strong customer service, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Basic understanding of insurance claims processes and DRP programs is considered an asset.
I-CAR training or other collision industry certifications would be considered an asset.
Willingness to learn, accept coaching, and develop into a highly proficient Repair Planner/Estimator.

Responsibilities

Set reasonable expectations for the customer and educate them on the repair process.
Develop and maintain a thorough understanding of estimating software required to process estimates.
Locate assignments from insurers and develop an understanding of claim requirements, including terms such as LOU (Loss of Use), WP (With Prejudice), endorsements, betterment, and deductibles.
Inspect vehicles throughout the repair process for quality control to ensure repairs are completed to client, insurer, and OEM standards.
Gather additional information that may be required from the insured.
Review vehicle damage with customers and identify accident-related damage and pre-existing damage.
Photograph vehicle damages as per shop policy and insurer requirements, ensuring photos are clear and accurate.
Determine if a vehicle is drivable or non-drivable.
Determine when vehicle disassembly may be required to create an accurate repair plan.
Prepare detailed estimates that capture all claim-related damage while researching repair procedures to ensure OEM standards and procedures are followed.
Control costs for the insurer by identifying repair opportunities where safe and appropriate, and by sourcing parts in accordance with insurer guidelines and shop policies.
Ensure proper dates and repair milestones are entered accurately into estimating and management systems.
Ensure correct rate profiles are selected and maintained.
Communicate effectively with customers, insurers, vendors, and internal team members regarding repair progress, scheduling, approvals, and delays.
Assist with parts sourcing by confirming model and trim levels, pricing, availability, and repair requirements.
Schedule and coordinate sublet services.
Ensure all invoices (parts, sublet, rental, towing, etc.) are attached to the claim file and management system in accordance with insurer requirements.
Maintain estimate accuracy throughout the repair process by processing supplements, updating pricing, and communicating with insurers as required.
Upload and monitor claims for approval.
Assist with customer-pay and third-party-pay estimates, supporting shop sales objectives.
Send final supplements and invoices to insurers for approval in a timely manner.
Ensure final authorizations are documented in the management system and that claim amounts reconcile accurately before closing files.
Participate in final quality control inspections to ensure vehicles are ready for delivery.
Deliver completed vehicles to customers and explain repairs where required.
Up-to-date compliance training, including AODA, WHMIS, Worker Health and Safety Awareness, Workplace Violence and Harassment, and knowledge of Information Security and PIPEDA requirements.