Sr Auto Appraiser
About The Position
Under general supervision, the Senior Auto Appraiser travels to various locations in an assigned territory in the West San Fernando Valley, including Chatsworth, Canoga Park, Winnetka, Van Nuys, and Northridge. The role inspects and evaluates physical damage to vehicles for first- and third-party claims, assesses current market value, and estimates repair costs. It supports equitable settlements and strong customer and repair-shop relationships while providing courteous, timely service throughout the repair process. The position involves working with claims staff, customers, repair facilities, and other parties to assess damage, negotiate repair costs and settlements, research vehicle and parts values, and document findings. The appraiser performs reinspections and authorizes supplemental repairs as needed, stays informed about vehicle values and market trends, and follows company policies and procedures. The role includes automobile travel of up to 50% and use of a company car, subject to company rules and eligibility standards. The minimum education requirement is a high school diploma or GED and six months of technical training. At least two years of auto appraising experience and knowledge of Mitchell or CCC are required. An advanced automotive repair credential and a bachelor’s degree are preferred. A company-sponsored adjuster’s license may be required after hire. The position requires a valid license and a personal driving history that meets company standards. It also involves extended sedentary work and frequent computer use, with occasional bending, stooping, reaching, climbing, standing, and handling files or equipment.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Six months of technical training.
- At least 2 years of auto appraising experience.
- Knowledge of Mitchell or CCC estimating software.
- Ability to meet company standards for personal driving history and current license status.
- Ability to travel by automobile up to 50% and use a company car in compliance with company vehicle rules.
- Knowledge of company procedures and insurance contracts.
- Understanding of automobile components, current vehicle values, and repair estimating practices.
- Ability to read and understand frame and alignment specifications.
- Strong analytical ability to assess damage and repairability accurately.
- Effective, professional communication and negotiation skills with insureds, claimants, attorneys, and repair facilities.
- Organizational and time-management skills to complete field assignments accurately and promptly.
- Ability to work independently and under minimal supervision.
- Physical ability to maintain a sedentary position and communicate and use a computer or other company-issued electronic device for extended periods.
- Ability occasionally to bend, stoop, reach, climb, stand, and grasp or operate drawers, filing cabinets, and other equipment.
Nice To Haves
- Advanced technical automotive repair training or certification.
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Body or mechanical repair facility management experience.
- General knowledge of automotive repair, including mechanical, sheet metal, paint, and frame repair.
- Intellectual curiosity and interest in improving processes or using technology more efficiently.
- Tendency to take ownership of processes that can be improved.
- Assumes positive intent in interactions.
- Interest in growth within and beyond the role.
Responsibilities
- Inspect and evaluate vehicle damage for first- and third-party claims; prepare detailed damage summaries and repair-cost estimates.
- Present estimates to repair facilities, agree on prices, and negotiate settlements with related parties as necessary.
- Research current market values for vehicles and parts to support total-loss settlements.
- Photograph vehicles and damage, determine or substantiate findings, and submit compliant reports and documentation.
- Reinspect vehicles and authorize supplemental repairs as needed to ensure service quality and thorough restoration.
- Communicate with clients throughout the repair process, explain evaluations and procedures, respond to inquiries, and provide courteous, timely service.
- Stay current on vehicle values, industry and market trends, and company policies and procedures.
- Collaborate with Claims Branch staff to confirm coverage, determine available limits, identify possible fraud, and obtain settlement approval.
- Complete field assignments accurately and on time, working independently and with limited supervision.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation and potential bonus programs, including holiday, referral, and performance-based bonuses.
- Paid time off, including vacation time, sick time, nine paid company holidays, and volunteer hours.
- Medical, dental, vision, life, and pet insurance.
- 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.
- Education assistance.
- Professional and personal development opportunities.
- Company recognition program.
- Health and wellbeing resources, including free mental wellbeing therapy or coaching sessions and child- and eldercare resources.
- Promotional opportunities.
- Flexibility to work from anywhere in the United States for most positions.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
High school or GED
