Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage
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.
SOC: 13-1032.00
Common Job Titles
AppraiserAutomobile Appraiser (Auto Appraiser)Automobile Damage Appraiser (Auto Damage Appraiser)Material Damage Appraiser
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- 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
| 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
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Adobe AcrobatMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft Word
Technology Skills
A-T Solutions Easy Street DrawApp Software Associations AppTrak.netCost estimating softwareDisassembler softwareEmail softwareInformation Services Inc. CCC Pathways Appraisal SolutionMeridian Technologies SurePointMitchell International Mitchell WorkCenter
Tools & Equipment
Compact digital camerasComputer laser printersDesktop computersElectronic digital theodolitesHand calculatorsLaptop computersLaser facsimile machines"Measure markers