Appraise automobile or other vehicle damage to determine repair costs for insurance claim settlement. Prepare insurance forms to indicate repair cost or cost estimates and recommendations. May seek agreement with automotive repair shop on repair costs.
KnowledgeEvaluate automobile damage extent and repair cost estimates using mechanical knowledge and cost estimating software to determine insurance claim settlements.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform detailed vehicle inspections and damage assessments using digital cameras, measuring tapes, and tire tread depth gauges in field settings.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze vehicle damage data and repair specifications to prepare accurate insurance forms and cost documentation following industry standards.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for fair claim settlements when negotiating repair costs with automotive repair shops and vehicle owners.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate appraisal software systems and digital documentation tools including Mitchell WorkCenter, Audatex Estimating, and tablet computers for remote assessments.
Proficient
KnowledgeJustify repair cost recommendations and claim decisions by interpreting technical specifications and industry standards for stakeholders.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate customer service principles with regulatory compliance requirements when interacting with claimants and managing conflict during the appraisal process.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess compliance of repair estimates with insurance policy coverage by evaluating documentation against company standards and regulatory guidelines.
Proficient
KnowledgeOrganize appraisal schedules and case documentation workflows managing multiple claims under time constraints while maintaining accuracy.
Proficient
KnowledgeEstimate labor hours, parts costs, and total repair expenses applying mathematical calculations and computerized estimating systems independently.
Developing
MindsetRespect diverse stakeholder perspectives when communicating technical appraisal findings to claimants, repair shops, and insurance personnel.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
7,790
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $56,690. 25th percentile: U.S. $64,280. 50th percentile: U.S. $76,650. 75th percentile: U.S. $86,430. 90th percentile: U.S. $101,800. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$56,690
10% of workers earn the following or more
$101,800
Workers on average earn
$77,050
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service4.2/5
English Language3.8/5
Computers and Electronics3.4/5
Mechanical3.2/5
Administrative3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Adobe Acrobat
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Windows
Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
A-T Solutions Easy Street Draw
App Software Associations AppTrak.net
Cost estimating software
Disassembler software
Email software
Information Services Inc. CCC Pathways Appraisal Solution
