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.