Job Overview: The Collision Estimator is responsible for evaluating and estimating the damage to vehicles following accidents or collisions, preparing detailed reports for insurance purposes, and helping customers understand their repair options. The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for detail, an understanding of vehicle repair processes, and the ability to communicate clearly with customers, repair facilities, and insurance companies. Key Responsibilities: * Evaluate Vehicle Damage: Perform thorough inspections of vehicles involved in collisions to assess the extent of the damage, including structural, mechanical, and cosmetic damage. * Create Accurate Estimates: Generate precise, detailed cost estimates for repairs based on labor, parts, and materials required. Ensure estimates comply with industry standards, insurance policies, and repair guidelines. * Documentation: Prepare and maintain accurate records, including photos, written reports, and detailed repair specifications, to document damage assessments and estimate calculations. * Work with Insurance Adjusters: Collaborate with insurance companies to review estimates, clarify discrepancies, and provide any additional information needed to approve claims. * Customer Communication: Explain estimates, repair options, and the claims process to customers in a clear and empathetic manner, ensuring they understand the necessary steps and timeline for repairs. * Coordinate with Repair Shops: Act as a liaison between repair shops and customers, ensuring that repairs are completed to the highest standards and in accordance with the estimates provided. * Stay Updated on Industry Trends: Keep up-to-date with advancements in vehicle technology, repair procedures, and insurance requirements to ensure estimates are accurate and compliant with industry standards. * Quality Control: Ensure all estimates and repair processes meet company policies, safety regulations, and customer satisfaction standards. Skills and Qualifications: * Experience: At least 2-5 years of experience in collision estimating, automotive repair, or insurance claims, preferably in an auto body shop or insurance claims environment. * Knowledge: Strong understanding of vehicle construction, repair processes, and the parts required for various types of collision damage. * Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with estimating software (e.g., Mitchell, Audatex, CCC One) and proficiency in using digital imaging tools to document vehicle damage. * Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to explain technical information in simple terms for customers and other stakeholders. * Attention to Detail: Ability to spot even minor vehicle damage and create highly accurate, comprehensive estimates. * Customer Service: Strong customer service orientation with the ability to handle sensitive situations with empathy and professionalism. * Organizational Skills: Strong multitasking skills and the ability to manage a caseload of estimates and claims efficiently. Work Environment: * Office-based, with on-site vehicle assessments. * Fast-paced, requiring the ability to handle multiple cases simultaneously. Physical Requirements: * Ability to stand, walk, and move around vehicles for extended periods. Compensation: * Salary: Competitive, based on experience. * Benefits: Health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, and professional development opportunities. This role is ideal for someone with a strong technical background in automotive repair and an aptitude for estimating repair costs and managing relationships within the insurance or automotive industries.