Auto Body Estimator

VIVE Collision; Town of Montgomery (NY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

VIVE Collision is seeking an experienced Collision Estimator to manage the repair journey from inspection to delivery, creating accurate repair plans and keeping customers informed.

You will work with insurance partners and the production team, follow OEM procedures, and ensure timely, high-quality repairs while explaining timelines to clients. Strong communication and estimating skills, plus CCC ONE experience, are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of automotive collision estimating experience.
• Strong knowledge of collision repair procedures and blueprints.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare complete and accurate repair estimates and blueprints.
• Develop detailed repair plans following vehicle teardown.
• Explain repair timelines and expectations to customers.
• Open and maintain repair orders per DRP and BAR requirements.
• Coordinate with technicians and production staff to communicate repair plans.
• Perform final quality control inspections prior to delivery.
• Review completed repairs with customers at delivery.

Skills

Estimating experience

Customer service

I-CAR training

Time management

Multitasking

Tools

CCC ONE estimating software

OEM repair procedures

Job description

As aCollision Estimator, you’ll manage the repair experience from the initial vehicle inspection through final delivery. You’ll create accurate repair plans, keep customers informed, work closely with insurance partners, and collaborate with the production team to help ensure safe, high-quality and timely repairs.

Job Requirements

• 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.

Skills and Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• A valid driver’s license and satisfactory motor vehicle record (MVR) are required.
• 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.