Auto Collision Estimator: Expert Repair Planner

Puget Collision, LLC; Oceanside (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Puget Collision, LLC in Oceanside, California, is seeking an experienced Auto Collision Repair Estimator. This role combines hourly compensation with commission, requiring proficiency in repair planning and managing insurance direct referral programs.

The Estimator will inspect vehicles, prepare precise estimates, coordinate with insurers, and maintain DRP/CCC documentation while ensuring OE/ADAS compliance and profitability. Non-exempt, full-time, on-site position.

Qualifications

• I-CAR Pro-Level 1 certification is mandatory.
• Minimum of 3 years of DRP writing experience.
• Strong relationships with insurance providers are crucial.
• Knowledge of metal/refinish replacement and repair techniques.
• Proficient with Mitchell and CCC estimating systems, ERAC and DRP management systems.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Interacts effectively with customers, technicians, and insurers.
• Maintains organization and efficiency in repair planning.
• Adheres to NDA and confidentiality policies.

Responsibilities

• Perform all duties according to SOPs.
• Greet customers and assess needs; deliver service excellence.
• Capture potential business from walk-ins or calls and coordinate with insurers.
• Prioritize repair jobs and expedite express repairs.
• Inspect, analyze, and evaluate damaged vehicles to create accurate estimates.
• Identify prior damage from check-in photos and pre-scans.
• Ensure profitability via labor resources, sales mix, and repair-vs-replace decisions.
• Inform customers about repair process, claims, and delivery date.
• Serve as primary contact; keep notes accurate and complete.
• Write comprehensive auto body repair plan after disassembly.
• Ensure repairs meet OE, DRP, refinishing, and ADAS calibration/scan requirements.
• Verify quality at each stage of repair.
• Source and receive parts per insurer/team guidelines.
• Deliver vehicle with complete paperwork and final payments.
• Scan all documents into CCC, maintain calendar and DRP portals.
• Build relationships with DRP, Fleet, and Dealer partners and meet metrics.

Skills

I-CAR Pro-Level 1 certification

DRP writing experience

Insurance relationships

Metal/refinish techniques

Mitchell estimating

CCC estimating systems

ERAC/DRP management systems

Verbal & written communication

Customer & insurer interaction

Organizational skills

Non-disclosure policies

Tools

Mitchell estimating

CCC estimating systems

ERAC

DRP management systems

Job description

Puget Collision, LLC in Oceanside, California, is seeking an experienced Auto Collision Repair Estimator. This role combines hourly compensation with commission, requiring proficiency in repair planning and managing insurance direct referral programs.

The Estimator will inspect vehicles, prepare precise estimates, coordinate with insurers, and maintain DRP/CCC documentation while ensuring OE/ADAS compliance and profitability. Non-exempt, full-time, on-site position.