Paint/Body Shop Estimator

  • Hinton Transportation Investments, Inc.
  • Byron Center, Michigan
  • Full Time

Summary

Appraises vehicle damage to determine cost of repair for insurance claim settlement.

This position is negotiable based on experience, around $60,000 annually + 5% commission.

Essential Duties

  • Examines damaged vehicle to determine extent of structural, body, mechanical or interior damage.
  • Estimates cost of labor and parts to repair or replace each damaged item.
  • Reviews repair cost estimates with body shop manager or foreman.
  • In the event of a disagreement with manager or foreman on repair cost, arranges to have damage appraised by another appraiser to resolve the situation.
  • Determines feasibility of repair versus replacement of parts, such as bumpers, fenders and doors.
  • Evaluates practicality of repair as opposed to payment of vehicle market value before accident.
  • Determines salvage value on total vehicle loss.
  • Prepares insurance forms to indicate repair cost estimates and recommendations.
  • Estimates cost of repainting, converting to special purposes or customizing undamaged vehicles.
  • Read and interpret a wide range of documents, including safety, technical, business, and legal materials.
  • Write reports, correspondence, speeches, and manuals.
  • Present information clearly and respond effectively to diverse audiences, from customers to top management.
  • Perform arithmetic operations with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals; calculate rates, ratios, percentages, and interpret graphs.
  • Use common sense and logical thinking to solve practical and abstract problems.
  • Interpret various instructions and technical information.
  • Analyze data, define problems, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Other tasks as assigned

Qualifications

Technical Expertise:

  • 2+ years in body repair, estimating, or a related field (e.g., diesel mechanics, collision repair, etc.).
  • Proficiency in interpreting repair manuals, blueprints, and technical specifications.
  • Familiarity with trailer types (flatbeds, reefers, dry vans, etc.) and DOT regulations.

Tools & Systems:

  • Experience with estimating software (Adjust-Rite, Karmak, or similar) and CRM platforms.
  • ERP knowledge is a plus.

Soft Skills:

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent communication for explaining technical details to non-experts.
  • Self-motivated with a results-driven mindset.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with coworkers and customers will be required.

Education and/or Experience

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 1-year certificate from college or technical school; or three to six months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 2-4 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Advanced Training

  • Advanced Vehicle Systems
  • Aluminum Repair, Replacement and Welding
  • Detailing
  • Electronics for Collision Repair
  • Executive Seminar
  • Finish Matching
  • Glass Replacement
  • Plastic Repair
  • Steering and Suspension
  • Understanding Collision Repair
  • Workplace Hazardous Materials
  • Manufacturer Training
  • Paint Manufacturer Training
  • State Emission Certification
  • State Sales License
  • State Vehicle Inspector Certification
  • Valid Driver's License

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to lift/carry 50lbs infrequently
  • Must be able to lift/carry 25-49lbs occasionally
  • Must be able to lift/carry 1-24lbs frequently

Why Work With Us?

  • Competitive Compensation
  • Competitive Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k with Match & More!)
  • Generous PTO and Paid Holidays
  • Wellness Discount
  • Parental Leave
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Opportunities to gain experience professionally
  • Positive growing company culture
  • Team-oriented atmosphere

HTI's Commitment

Pace Transportation Services is a division of Hinton Transportation Investments, Inc. (HTI). HTI is an industry leader in the heavy-duty truck and trailer parts sales. The organization has over 30 locations nationwide and globally. HTI prides itself on internal upward mobility - leading to more opportunities for YOU!

Hinton Transportation Investments is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job ID: 486002093
Originally Posted on: 7/19/2025

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