Inside Physical Damage Appraiser

Auto-Owners Insurance; Michigan; Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Matched 401(k)

Fully-funded pension plan

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Auto-Owners Insurance is seeking an experienced Claims professional to join their team in Michigan. This role involves inspecting damaged automobiles, negotiating repair costs, and ensuring compliance with repair safety standards.

The ideal candidate should possess at least 3 years of experience as a physical damage appraiser and have strong communication skills. The position may offer up to three work-from-home days per week, along with competitive benefits including a pension plan and 401(k) matching.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years working as a physical damage appraiser.
• Ability to handle multiple assignments.
• Possess a valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Inspect damaged automobiles and develop information regarding repair costs.
• Negotiate repair cost agreements and evaluate options for settlement of claims.
• Maintain understanding of current automobile construction and repair techniques.

Skills

Communication skills

Complex issue resolution

Data organization and interpretation

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Tools

CCC software

Job description

Overview

A career at Auto-Owners is challenging and rewarding. Our group of caring associates create financial security by helping individuals and businesses make a new start when a loss occurs. Auto-Owners Insurance, a top-rated insurance carrier, is seeking an experienced and motivated Claims professional to join our team. This role is initially trained in person and may offer up to three work‑from‑home days per week.

Responsibilities

• Inspect damaged automobiles and develop information regarding repair costs.
• Negotiate repair cost agreements and evaluate the practicality of repair and options for settlement of claims.
• Maintain an understanding of current automobile construction and repair techniques, assuring compliance with statutory requirements including the appropriate use of after‑market parts and repair safety standards.
• Communicate with claim associates, agents, insured’s repair facilities, and others regarding inspections and conclusions; develop and participate in required communication with vehicle owners about repairs; participate in negotiations and follow‑up to resolve claims.
• Work towards the resolution of claims and may attend arbitrations, mediations, depositions, or trials as necessary.
• Handle investigations by phone, mail, and on‑site investigations.
• Be willing to travel and be temporarily reassigned for catastrophe duty upon request.

Desired Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• A minimum of 3 years working as a physical damage appraiser.
• Knowledge of CCC software is preferred but not required.
• Above average written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to resolve complex issues.
• Organize and interpret data.
• Ability to handle multiple assignments.
• Possess a valid driver’s license.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary.
• Matched 401(k).
• Fully‑funded pension plan (once vested).
• Bonus programs.
• Generous paid time off including holidays, vacation days, personal time, and sick leave.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Auto-Owners Insurance is an equal opportunity employer. The Company hires, transfers, and promotes on the basis of ability, without consideration of disability, age, sex, race, color, religion, height, weight, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin, or any factor contrary to federal, state or local law.

*Please note that the ability to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship is a requirement.