Auto Body Collision Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

Collision Estimator | Competitive Comp | Great Culture | Growth Opportunities

Great estimators shouldn't have to do everything themselves.

At VIVE Collision, we give our Estimators the people, processes, technology, and support they need to focus on what they do best—building accurate repair plans, communicating with customers, and keeping repairs moving.

You'll work alongside experienced technicians, dedicated parts support, and a fully staffed front office while using modern estimating and management systems in a busy, professional collision repair environment.

If you're an experienced Collision Estimator looking for a shop where you can perform at a high level without sacrificing quality, we'd like to talk.

Why Estimators Choose VIVE

• Fully staffed front office and dedicated parts support
• Modern estimating and shop management technology
• Established processes designed to keep repairs moving
• Paid I-CAR & OEM certification training
• Opportunities for continued career growth
• Medical, Dental & Vision insurance for you and your family, including domestic partners
• $50,000 employer-paid life insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Paid time off
• 8 paid holidays, including Black Friday + your birthday as a floating holiday
• Employee Assistance Program with counseling, financial, legal, and work/life resources
• Employee discounts and savings on wellness, shopping, and travel

What You'll Do

The Collision Estimator is responsible for managing the repair process from initial vehicle inspection through final delivery. This role develops accurate repair plans, communicates effectively with customers, insurance partners, and production teams, and ensures repairs are completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with OEM procedures. The ideal candidate has strong technical knowledge of collision repair, exceptional customer service skills, and the ability to manage multiple repairs while delivering an outstanding customer experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Greet customers and perform comprehensive vehicle inspections to assess collision damage. 
• Prepare complete and accurate repair estimates and blueprints using approved estimating systems. 
• Develop detailed repair plans following complete vehicle teardown. 
• Explain the repair process, estimated timelines, and repair expectations to customers. 
• Open and maintain repair orders in compliance with company, DRP, and regulatory requirements, including BAR compliance where applicable. 
• Verify all required authorizations and documentation are obtained before repairs begin. 
• Conduct vehicle check-in with customers at the time of drop-off. 
• Coordinate with technicians and production staff to ensure repair plans are properly communicated and executed. 
• Follow current OEM repair procedures and manufacturer guidelines throughout the repair process. 
• Communicate repair status updates to customers, insurance partners, and internal team members. 
• Identify and process supplements as additional damage is discovered. 
• Manage total loss documentation and administrative processes when applicable. 
• Prepare all final paperwork, including repair orders, invoices, DRP documentation, and customer delivery packets. 
• Perform final quality control inspections, including road testing when required, prior to vehicle delivery. 
• Review completed repairs with customers during vehicle delivery and address any questions or concerns. 
• Maintain strong working relationships with insurance carriers, customers, and internal team members. 
• When applicable, drive vehicles for damage assessments, road testing, or other job-related purposes to support accurate estimates, verify repairs, and ensure vehicle safety and quality.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support shop operations and deliver an exceptional customer experience.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age. 
• Minimum of three (3) years of automotive collision repair or estimating experience. 
• Strong knowledge of collision repair procedures, estimating, and blueprinting. 
• Proficiency in customer service and sales-oriented communication. 
• Experience with CCC ONE estimating software preferred. 
• I-CAR certification or training preferred. 
• State appraisal license if required by state.
• Working knowledge of OEM repair procedures and insurance carrier requirements. 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time management abilities. 
• Ability to read and interpret repair procedures, work orders, and technical documentation. 
• Ability to multitask and thrive in a fast-paced, production-driven environment. 
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.

Ready for a Better Estimating Environment?

If you know collision repair and want to work somewhere that gives you the support, technology, training, and resources to succeed , we'd like to hear from you.

Apply today for a confidential conversation about joining VIVE Collision.

The specific pay rate/salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by several factors including experience, education, specialized certifications from OEMs, and where the job is located.  

We are an equal opportunity employer and consider all qualified applicants equally regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.