Position Summary
The Collision Estimator is responsible for managing the repair process from initial vehicle inspection through final delivery. This role develops accurate repair plans, communicates effectively with customers, insurance partners, and production teams, and ensures repairs are completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with OEM procedures. The ideal candidate has strong technical knowledge of collision repair, exceptional customer service skills, and the ability to manage multiple repairs while delivering an outstanding customer experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Greet customers and perform comprehensive vehicle inspections to assess collision damage.
- Prepare complete and accurate repair estimates and blueprints using approved estimating systems.
- Develop detailed repair plans following complete vehicle teardown.
- Explain the repair process, estimated timelines, and repair expectations to customers.
- Open and maintain repair orders in compliance with company, DRP, and regulatory requirements, including BAR compliance where applicable.
- Verify all required authorizations and documentation are obtained before repairs begin.
- Conduct vehicle check-in with customers at the time of drop-off.
- Coordinate with technicians and production staff to ensure repair plans are properly communicated and executed.
- Follow current OEM repair procedures and manufacturer guidelines throughout the repair process.
- Communicate repair status updates to customers, insurance partners, and internal team members.
- Identify and process supplements as additional damage is discovered.
- Manage total loss documentation and administrative processes when applicable.
- Prepare all final paperwork, including repair orders, invoices, DRP documentation, and customer delivery packets.
- Perform final quality control inspections, including road testing when required, prior to vehicle delivery.
- Review completed repairs with customers during vehicle delivery and address any questions or concerns.
- Maintain strong working relationships with insurance carriers, customers, and internal team members.
- When applicable, drive vehicles for damage assessments, road testing, or other job-related purposes to support accurate estimates, verify repairs, and ensure vehicle safety and quality.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support shop operations and deliver an exceptional customer experience.
Qualifications
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- A valid driver's license and satisfactory motor vehicle record (MVR) are required.
- Minimum of three (3) years of automotive collision repair or estimating experience.
- Strong knowledge of collision repair procedures, estimating, and blueprinting.
- Proficiency in customer service and sales-oriented communication.
- Experience with CCC ONE estimating software preferred.
- I-CAR certification or training preferred.
- State appraisal license if required by state.
- Working knowledge of OEM repair procedures and insurance carrier requirements.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time management abilities.
- Ability to read and interpret repair procedures, work orders, and technical documentation.
- Ability to multitask and thrive in a fast-paced, production-driven environment.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and inspect vehicles throughout the workday.
- Ability to enter and exit vehicles frequently.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to operate computers, tablets, and estimating software for extended periods.
- Comfortable working in both office and collision repair shop environments.
The specific pay rate/salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a number of factors including experience, education, specialized certifications from OEMs, and where the job is located.The company reserves the right to adjust offers within the range at its discretion.