Estimator Apprentice

Puget Collision, LLC; Salem (OR); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Puget Collision, LLC is seeking an Estimator Apprentice to train toward an Estimator role. This hourly, training position focuses on repair planning for auto collision repairs, DRP alignment, and high-quality documentation.

You will develop estimating skills using Mitchell and CCC systems while advancing through structured performance reviews. The role includes learning to balance cycle time, profitability, and customer communication, with promotion consideration upon demonstrated proficiency

Qualifications

• I-CAR Pro-Level 1 certification is mandatory within 90 days of start date.
• Knowledge of auto body estimating, including Mitchell and CCC estimating systems.
• Knowledge of metal/refinish replacement and repair techniques.
• Structural and suspension damage analysis capability.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Adheres to confidentiality policies regarding customer information.

Responsibilities

• Follow Company SOPs and training protocols.
• Identify express repairs and schedule vehicles for cycle time efficiency.
• Apply labor resources and determine repair vs. replace decisions to improve profitability.
• Write comprehensive auto body repair plans with photo documentation and pre-scans.
• Ensure repairs meet OE standards, DRP guidelines, and ADAS calibration/scanning requirements.
• Maintain accurate documentation and prepare final bills and supplements.
• Communicate with customers and keep file notes accurate and complete.
• Coordinate parts sourcing per insurer and company guidelines.
• Build relationships with DRP, fleet and dealer partners and meet metrics.
• Scan and organize all documents in CCC One files and calendars.

Skills

I-CAR Pro-Level 1

Auto body estimating

Repair planning

Tools

Mitchell estimating

CCC estimating system

Job description

Job Description: Estimator Apprentice

The Estimator Apprentice is an hourly position in training for promotion to Estimator. The Estimator position is a skilled experienced professional in all aspects of repair planning in auto collision repair and proficient in managing most insurance company direct referral programs. Once the responsibilities below are achieved, promotion to Estimator will be considered with performance reviews on a 6-month cadence. Based on performance, one to three years is the usual training period for promotion to an Estimator.

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Work Location

Full Time Hourly

Job Duties/Responsibilities

• Perform all assigned responsibilities according to the Company Standard Operating Procedures.
• Ability to identify express repairs and schedule vehicles appropriately to obtain cycle time efficiency.
• Ability to increase profitability by proper application of labor resources, sales mix, and ensuring repair vs replace.
• Write a complete auto body collision repair plan after disassembling the vehicle including thorough photo documentation and pre-scanning.
• Ensure repairs adhere to OE standards, DRP part choices, refinish guidelines and ADAS requirements for calibrations and scanning.
• Verify quality is checked at each stage of the vehicle repair process.
• Source, order & receive parts according to insurer and company guidelines.
• Ensure accurate final bill and estimate accuracy; sublet posted, all supplements are noted including customer authorizations and parts listed correctly per DRP guidelines.
• Ensure proper customer communication, keeping them informed throughout the repair; ensuring notes in the file are accurate and complete.
• Deliver the vehicle to the customer going over the repair, the paperwork and ensuring all final payments are collected.
• Build strong relationships with DRP, Fleet and Dealer partners, meeting performance metrics and standards.
• Ensure all documentation is scanned into the CCC one file: check-in sheet, estimate, adjusted sheets, invoices, payments, and final bills.
• Maintain an accurate CCC Calendar and review inbox items and DRP portals daily.

Key Performance Metrics

• Ensure profitability with Gross Profit of 45% or higher.
• Customer Service Index Score 90+ for keeping the customer informed, on time deliveries, return rate and Net Promoter Score. Surveys should be a minimum of 40% taken monthly.
• Cycle Time efficiency should be less than the state average.
• Maintain $0 accounts receivable over 31 days and clean files that are ready to close at delivery.

Skills/Technical Qualifications

• I-CAR Pro-Level 1 certification is mandatory within 90 days of start date.
• Knowledgeable in Auto Body Estimating, with ability to utilize Mitchell and CCC estimating systems.
• Knowledge of metal/refinish replacement and repair techniques.
• Structural and suspension damage analysis ability.
• Exceptional customers service skills and results
• Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Adheres to the company’s non-disclosure and confidentiality policies concerning customer information.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in both office and automotive repair shop environments.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while using a computer, preparing documentation, entering data, and learning estimating systems and procedures.
• Ability to stand and walk frequently throughout the workday while inspecting vehicles and assisting with the estimating process.
• Ability to move throughout the facility, including office, production, paint, detail, and parking areas.
• Ability to frequently bend, stoop, crouch, kneel, and reach to inspect vehicle damage and repair operations.
• Ability to enter, exit, and maneuver around vehicles of various sizes and configurations.
• Ability to occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25 pounds, including parts, supplies, and equipment.
• Ability to use hands and fingers for typing, data entry, handling documents, operating office equipment, and utilizing estimating software.
• Ability to visually inspect vehicle damage, repair procedures, parts, and completed repairs, including close, distance, color, and peripheral vision.
• Ability to communicate effectively with customers, technicians, supervisors, insurance representatives, and coworkers in person, by telephone, and electronically.
• Ability to safely navigate around moving vehicles, equipment, tools, and active repair operations.
• Ability to tolerate exposure to noise, dust, paint fumes, chemicals, and varying temperatures when working in shop and parking areas while using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.
• Ability to learn and apply estimating procedures, repair methods, and shop processes while maintaining attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment while receiving ongoing training and mentorship.
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle and maintain a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.