The Body Shop Estimator The Body Shop Estimator is responsible for inspecting damaged vehicles, preparing accurate repair estimates, and coordinating with customers, insurance companies, and technicians throughout the collision repair process. This position ensures all repair plans are complete, accurate, and compliant with insurance and manufacturer standards while supporting efficient workflow and high customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, customer-focused, and knowledgeable in collision repair estimating and insurance procedures.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Inspect damaged vehicles and assess repair needs in accordance with industry standards.
Prepare accurate repair estimates using approved estimating systems.
Communicate with customers regarding repair options, timelines, and insurance processes.
Coordinate with insurance adjusters to obtain approvals and supplements as needed.
Review and adjust repair plans based on supplemental damage findings.
Work closely with technicians to ensure repair accuracy, quality, and efficiency.
Document all vehicle damage thoroughly with notes and photographs.
Maintain compliance with OEM repair procedures, insurance guidelines, and dealership policies.
Monitor repair progress and update customers throughout the repair process.
Ensure all repair orders, invoices, and documentation are complete and accurate.
Support cycle time goals, profitability targets, and customer satisfaction standards.
Maintain strong relationships with insurance partners, vendors, and dealership staff.
Address customer questions and concerns in a professional and timely manner.
Perform additional duties as assigned by body shop management.
Qualifications:
Strong knowledge of collision repair processes and vehicle systems.
Excellent communication and customer service skills.
Ability to accurately assess vehicle damage and prepare detailed estimates.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., CCC ONE, Audatex, Mitchell) preferred.
Understanding of insurance procedures and claims processing.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Strong problem-solving and negotiation skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with technicians, customers, and insurers.
Education and Experience:
High school diploma or GED required.
Technical or vocational training in automotive collision repair preferred.
Minimum of 25 years of experience in collision repair, estimating, or related field required.
Prior experience in a dealership or insurance estimating environment preferred.
I-CAR or OEM certifications preferred.
Physical Requirements:
Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and vehicle inspection activities.
Ability to lift and carry up to 2550 pounds as needed.
Ability to work around vehicles, shop environments, and repair equipment.
Manual dexterity to operate estimating systems, computers, and mobile devices.
Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and electronically.
Work Environment:
Fast-paced automotive body shop environment with frequent exposure to vehicle movement, moderate noise levels, and interaction with customers, insurance representatives, and technicians. Occasional extended hours may be required to meet repair deadlines and customer needs.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required for this position. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and assign other responsibilities as necessary.
