Mobile Vehicle Inspector, Palm Springs, CA

Cox Enterprises • Remote-California-120, CA

7d • $17 - $33 • Hybrid

About The Position

Cox Automotive is hiring Mobile Inspectors at Level 1, Level 2, and Senior levels to conduct on-site vehicle condition inspections for dealer clients within an assigned territory. This remote position requires candidates to live within a 20–30 mile radius of Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Coachella, Indio, Beaumont, San Jacinto, or La Quinta, California. The role involves travel 100% of the time and offers a hybrid flexible work option, with the ability to work remotely part of the week.

Mobile Inspectors document vehicle condition accurately, thoroughly, and on time in accordance with Manheim inspection standards. They support client trust, marketplace transparency, and inventory flow; build dealer relationships; promote Manheim’s mobile inspection services; and work with minimal supervision. Responsibilities and independence vary by level, from performing basic inspections while learning standards to handling complex inspections, mentoring colleagues, and serving as a subject matter resource.

The listed hourly base pay range is $18.17–$27.21, with compensation potentially varying by location and candidate qualifications. The position may also be eligible for commission or incentives. Separate level-specific pay ranges and monthly production incentives are described in the posting. Business use of a personal vehicle is reimbursed. Employees are eligible for at least 16 hours of paid time off per month and seven paid holidays, as well as specified additional leave. Other benefits may include medical, dental, and vision insurance and a 401(k), depending on what is offered.

A pre-employment drug test is required. Cox Automotive does not currently test for marijuana as part of the pre-employment test for this position. The role is in a drug-free workplace, and use or possession of drugs illegal under federal or state law during work hours, on company property, or in company vehicles is prohibited. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship.

Requirements

• Valid driver’s license with a safe driving record.
• Ability to meet the physical and mental demands of the role within required timeframes.
• Level 1: High school diploma or GED required.
• Level 1: Minimal automotive knowledge in body and mechanical areas is preferred; 0–1 years of automotive-related experience preferred.
• Level 2: High school diploma or GED plus 3 or more years of related-field experience; alternatively, a degree or certification beyond high school/GED, or 5 years of related-field experience.
• Level 2: 1–2 years of automotive-related experience preferred.
• Senior: High school diploma or GED plus 5 years of related-field experience; alternatively, a degree or certification beyond high school/GED and 3 years of experience, or 7 years of related-field experience.
• Senior: Previous vehicle inspection experience and strong automotive knowledge in body and mechanical areas required.
• Senior: 2–3 years of automotive-related experience strongly preferred; 1 year of service with Manheim Inspections recommended.
• Must clear a pre-employment drug test.
• Must currently be authorized to work in the United States for any employer without current or future sponsorship; OPT, CPT, STEM/OPT, and visa sponsorship are not available.

Nice To Haves

• Level 1: Minimal automotive knowledge in body and mechanical areas.
• Level 1: 0–1 years of automotive-related experience.
• Level 2: 1–2 years of automotive-related experience.
• Senior: 2–3 years of automotive-related experience strongly preferred.
• Senior: 1 year of service with Manheim Inspections recommended.

Responsibilities

• Conduct vehicle inspections according to 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 in the system.
• 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 the value of Manheim Marketplace and mobile inspection services; engage dealers to increase inspection volume and participation.
• Use data, insights, and partner input to improve inspection efficiency and territory productivity.
• Adapt to changes in appointments and schedules to ensure effective 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 improvements in a continuous improvement and Lean environment.
• Meet production expectations established by leadership.
• Follow safety and health procedures and participate in Safety Excellence initiatives.
• Comply with Manheim inspection standards, including the NAAA Frame/Structure Damage Policy.
• At Level 1, conduct basic inspections, safely handle vehicles, accurately document vehicle condition and data, and develop knowledge of standards and client expectations.
• At Level 2, independently conduct detailed and complex inspections, manage daily schedules, build dealer relationships, use data to improve territory performance, and support team improvement efforts.
• 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 stated guarantees for the month of hire and first, 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.
• Benefits may include medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k), and paid days off.

What This Job Offers

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