Inspector Apprentice (Manheim)

Cox Automotive; Hayward (CA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Manheim, a Cox Automotive company, is seeking an Inspector Apprentice to learn vehicle inspection and documentation from experienced teammates. No prior experience required; comprehensive training is provided to start a reliable automotive career.

You will verify VINs, inspect exterior and interior conditions, and create accurate records to support daily operations. This entry-level role emphasizes learning and hands-on skill development.

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license and safe driving record.
• Preferred knowledge of automotive body and mechanical work.
• Experience using handheld documentation devices.
• Ability to pass Inspector Certification Exam within 90 days.

Responsibilities

• Verify vehicle identification and enter data into the inspection system (VIN, year, make, model, mileage).
• Inspect equipment and options; document damage, repairs, and defects.
• Evaluate exterior condition: tires, frame, glass, body panels, mechanicals.
• Document interior condition: seats, dashboard, options.
• Complete and verify data entry; perform other duties as needed.
• Assist with jump-starting, moving and photographing vehicles.

Skills

Valid driver's license

Manual & automatic driving

Automotive body knowledge

Documentation devices usage

Inspector certification within 90 days

Job description

As an Inspector Apprentice at Manheim, a Cox Automotive company, you’ll receive hands‑on training from experienced team members as you inspect vehicles and document their condition. This is an opportunity to build valuable skills and career stability with an iconic automotive brand. Ready to drive your automotive career forward? No previous experience or education is required. We’ll provide the training you need to succeed.

What You’ll Do

You’ll learn about the inspection process and create accurate vehicle records that support daily operations. You will:

• Verify vehicle identification and enter information into the inspection system, including VIN, year, make, model, subseries and mileage.
• Inspect vehicle equipment and options, documenting results such as damage, previous repairs, structural issues and missing or inoperable items.
• Evaluate and record the exterior condition of vehicles, including but not limited to tires, frame, glass, body panels and mechanical components.
• Document the interior condition of vehicles, including but not limited to seats, dashboard and vehicle options.
• Complete and verify data entry.
• Perform other duties as needed, including jump‑starting, moving and photographing vehicles.

Who You Are

You enjoy learning new skills and are committed to doing quality work. You also have the following:

Minimum Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and safe driving record

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to drive standard and automatic transmission vehicles
• Minimal knowledge of automotive body and mechanical work
• 1 year of body shop, mechanical, claims adjuster or estimating experience
• Experience in navigating handheld and other documentation devices
• Ability to pass Inspector Certification Exam within 90 days

Physical Requirements

• Frequently required to crouch, bend and kneel to inspect sides and underside of vehicles.
• Must be able to lift a hood or trunk and reach inside or underneath vehicles as needed.
• Requires near‑vision abilities to identify dings, scratches, paint work, hail damage, frame or unibody damage and other interior and exterior defects. Must be able to identify interior and exterior colors.
• Ability to work effectively under various lighting conditions, including indoor and outdoor settings and natural and artificial light.

Work Environment

This role involves frequent exposure to varying outdoor weather conditions.

Embark on an exciting journey with Manheim and Cox Automotive