Mobile Vehicle Inspector, Santa Ana CA

Cox Enterprises • Remote-California-120, CA

1d • $18 - $33 • Hybrid

About The Position

Cox Automotive is hiring Mobile Inspectors at Level 1, Level 2, and Senior Level to conduct on-site vehicle condition inspections for dealer clients within an assigned territory. The position is described as remote with an assigned territory, and the flexible work option is hybrid, with the ability to work remotely part of the week. Candidates must live in Santa Ana, California, or within a 10-mile radius. The role supports client trust, marketplace transparency, and inventory flow through accurate, detailed, and timely inspection documentation in accordance with Manheim standards. Inspectors build dealer relationships, represent Cox Automotive, and help grow participation in Manheim mobile inspection services. The work requires minimal supervision, increasing independence, sound judgment, and problem-solving.

The position includes a base hourly rate that varies by level: $18.17–$27.21 for Level 1, $19.90–$29.81 for Level 2, and $21.83–$32.79 for Senior Level. Inspectors may also earn monthly performance incentives based on inspection volume, with approximately $750 available for target production and $1,000 or more for top performers. Incentives are guaranteed during the first three full months under the stated schedule. Reimbursement is provided for business use of a personal vehicle.

All levels conduct and document vehicle inspections, verify vehicle details, perform basic mechanical checks, engage with dealer clients, manage territory activity, report production, use Salesforce.com, collaborate with Manheim teams, and follow safety and inspection standards. Level 1 is an entry-level role focused on learning processes and standards; Level 2 independently manages inspection activity and supports territory growth; the Senior role performs complex inspections, serves as a subject-matter resource, and supports the development of less experienced inspectors. A pre-employment drug test is required; the company states it does not currently test for marijuana for this position. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED is required for Level 1.
• Level 2 requires a high school diploma or GED plus 3 or more years of experience in a related field; alternatives include a degree or certification beyond high school/GED, or 5 years of experience in a related field.
• Senior Level requires a high school diploma or GED plus 5 years of experience in a related field; alternatives include a degree or certification beyond high school/GED and 3 years of experience, or 7 years of experience in a related field.
• A valid driver's license and safe driving record are required at all levels.
• Ability to meet the physical and mental demands of the role within required timeframes is required.
• Senior Level requires previous vehicle inspection experience and strong automotive knowledge in body and mechanical areas.
• Candidates must live in Santa Ana, California, or within a 10-mile radius.
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer without current or future sponsorship.
• A pre-employment drug test is required.

Nice To Haves

• Level 1: Minimal automotive knowledge, including body and mechanical, is preferred.
• Level 1: 0–1 years of automotive-related experience is preferred.
• Level 2: 1–2 years of automotive-related experience is preferred.
• Senior Level: 2–3 years of automotive-related experience is strongly preferred.
• Senior Level: 1 year of service with Manheim Inspections is recommended.
• The right Level 2 candidate may qualify through an alternative combination of education, certification, and experience.
• The right Senior Level candidate may qualify through an alternative combination of education, certification, and experience.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough vehicle inspections in accordance with Manheim inspection standards.
• Locate, start, move, inspect, and return vehicles safely on dealer client lots.
• Verify vehicle identification, VINs, mileage, sub-series, and options, and enter information accurately into systems.
• Inspect and document exterior condition, including tires, frame, glass, panels, and mechanical components.
• Inspect and document interior condition, including seating, dashboard, and installed options.
• Perform basic mechanical checks across powertrain, drivetrain, and electrical components.
• Identify and document damage, missing components, and inoperable features.
• Build trust with dealer clients through consistent quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
• Educate clients on Manheim Marketplace and mobile inspection services and proactively encourage participation.
• Use data, insights, and partner input to improve inspection efficiency, territory productivity, and inspection volume.
• Adapt to changes in daily appointments and schedules to ensure dealer coverage.
• Prepare and submit daily activity and production reports.
• Use Salesforce.com for reporting, lead management, and customer performance tracking.
• Collaborate with Wholesale Specialists, peers, and other Manheim teams to support client success.
• Contribute to process improvement in a continuous improvement and Lean environment.
• Maintain production expectations established by leadership and follow safety and health procedures.
• Participate in Safety Excellence initiatives and comply with Manheim inspection standards, including the NAAA Frame/Structure Damage Policy.
• At Level 1, conduct basic inspections, safely handle vehicles, accurately document condition and data, and develop working knowledge of inspection standards and client expectations.
• At Level 2, independently conduct detailed and complex inspections, manage daily schedules across dealer locations, build client relationships, and support continuous improvement and team collaboration.
• At Senior Level, perform advanced and high-complexity inspections, serve as a resource on standards and best practices, support onboarding and development of less experienced inspectors, and model safety and operational excellence.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Monthly performance incentive based on inspection volume; target production can earn approximately $750 per month, and top performers can earn $1,000 or more per month.
• Guaranteed incentive during the first three full months, with a prorated guarantee up to $750 in the month of hire, $750 in the first full month, and $500 in each of the second and third full months.
• Reimbursement for business use of a personal vehicle.
• At least 16 hours of paid time off per month.
• Seven paid holidays per calendar year.
• Bereavement leave, time off to vote, jury duty leave, volunteer time off, military leave, and parental leave.
• Potential health care insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Potential 401(k) retirement planning.
• Potential paid sick leave, parental leave, flexible vacation/wellness days, and/or PTO.

What This Job Offers

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