Inspector Apprentice (Manheim)

Cox Automotive; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Parental leave

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Job summary

Cox Automotive in Tampa, FL is seeking a Vehicle Inspector to verify vehicle data, inspect exterior and interior conditions, and accurately document findings. You will work independently to ensure data integrity across the inspection system.

The role emphasizes attention to detail, reliable data entry, and adherence to safety standards, with opportunities to handle various vehicle types in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Generally, less than 2 years of experience.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Verify vehicle identification and enter accurate vehicle information into the inspection system (VIN, year, make, model, mileage).
• Inspect vehicle equipment and options, documenting damage, repairs, and condition.
• Inspect and record exterior condition (tires, frame, glass, panels, mechanicals).
• Inspect and record interior condition (seats, dashboard, options).
• Complete and verify data entry supporting documentation of vehicle condition.
• Other duties as needed (e.g., jump starting, moving, imaging vehicles).

Skills

Excellent communication

Detail oriented

Safe driving

Multitasking

Handheld documentation devices

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Tools

Handheld devices

Job description

parental leave, paid time off, paid holidays

United States, Florida, Tampa

Sep 14, 2026

Job Description Summary

Looking for a job where your attention to detail matters? Step into the driver's seat as a Vehicle Inspector and become the sharp eye behind every vehicle's story. You won't just inspect cars, you'll uncover the details others miss, capturing precise images and documenting condition with accuracy that keeps the entire operation moving forward. If you take pride in noticing the small things, working independently, and being trusted to get it right the first time, this role puts you in control. Every vehicle is different. Every inspection counts.

Key Responsibilities

• Verify vehicle identification and enter accurate vehicle information into the inspection system. (i.e., correct VIN, year, make model, sub series, & mileage.
• Inspect vehicle equipment and options, documenting results including damage, previous repairs, structural damage, missing, or inoperable items.
• Inspect and record vehicle exterior condition, including but not limited to tires, frame, glass, panels, and mechanical components.
• Inspect and record the vehicle interior condition, including but not limited to seats, dashboard, and options.
• Complete and verify data entry in support of documentation of vehicle condition.
• Other duties as needed or required. (i.e., jump starting vehicles, moving vehicles, imaging vehicles)

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED.
• Generally, less than 2 years of experience.
• Safe drivers needed; valid driver's license required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills required.

Preferred

• Ability to drive standard and automatic transmission vehicles.
• Minimal knowledge of automotive body and mechanical work
• 0-1 years of body shop, mechanical, claims adjuster or estimating experience
• Ability to multitask and must be detail orientated
• 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 look at side or underneath car. Strength to lift hood or trunk. Bend while performing audits. Reach inside or underneath vehicle.
• Near vision abilities required to find dings and scratches, paint work, hail damage, frame/unibody, other exterior damage and Interior damage. Able to identify exterior or interior colors
• Ability to deal with different lighting (i.e., exterior, and interior lighting, natural and artificial light)
• Requires physical ability and mental acuity to execute the duties of the position successfully within required timeframes to meet business requirements.
• Work outside in the elements year-round.

USD 13.70 - 20.53 per hour

Compensation

Hourly pay rate is in the range of $13.70 - $20.53/hour. The hourly base rate may vary within the anticipated range based on factors such as the ultimate location of the position and the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, and abilities. Position may be eligible for additional compensation that may include commission (annual, monthly, etc.) and/or an incentive program.

Benefits

Employees are eligible to receive a minimum of sixteen hours of paid time off every month and seven paid holidays throughout the calendar year. Employees are also eligible for additional paid time off in the form of bereavement leave, time off to vote, jury duty leave, volunteer time off, military leave, and parental leave.

Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States for any employer without current or future sponsorship.

EOE, including disability/vets