Description

Inspects, analyzes, and evaluates damaged vehicles to create a comprehensive and accurate estimate of repair in high volume situations. Requires travel to vehicle locations which may often include natural disaster zones. Uses computers to write estimates and interact with other computer software. Documents all aspects of claims investigation and processing. Follows company claims processes that account for a fair and accurate settlement, customer satisfaction, and cost management.

 

Personal Characteristics and Skills

Must enjoy working with people, working around cars and trucks, and working with computer software programs. Needs writing, negotiating, and decision-making skills. Needs to manage relationships in a fast paced environment and work under high pressure. Must be able to work under difficult and sometimes primitive conditions.

 

Job Outlook

Many insurance companies need additional resources when large disasters produce a high volume of claims that must be settled in a timely manner. Additional damage appraisers are needed during these catastrophes. There can be instant demand for many well-qualified damage appraisers.

 

Pre-Employment Education and Experience

Math, reading, and computer skills are necessary to understand repairs, research information, and use computer software. A high school education is required with a four-year college degree preferred. Two years of collision repair industry experience is preferred. Automotive and collision repair training is required. Bilingual skills are a plus.

 

Earnings

Depending on location and pay plan, earnings can reach $2,000 to $3,000 a week during peak periods. Although not always steady work, experienced appraisers can easily surpass $80,000 yearly. Benefits may include insurance, pension plans, and a company vehicle or mileage reimbursement.

 

Career Path

An experienced independent appraiser is an ideal candidate, but the position can be learned by the right person with a collision repair background and good customer service skills. This is an advanced position for independent appraisal companies and can lead to future advancement including senior appraisers, reinspectors, and management.

 

Continuing Education

Technical education is available through I-CAR. Some local technical schools have estimator training. Certification is available through ASE.

 

 

 

 

see where this career fits within the repair process