Manheim Vehicle Condition Inspector, Columbus, OH

Cox Automotive Inc.; Ohio; On-site; USD 31,000 - 57,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Public holidays

Bereavement leave

Vehicle use reimbursement

Job summary

Manheim is seeking Vehicle Condition Inspectors at Level 1, Level 2, or Senior levels. Inspectors perform on-site vehicle inspections, document condition, and engage dealers to grow participation in inspection services. Roles offer structured progression, safety focus, and collaboration with Cox Automotive teams.

Levels vary by experience; hourly ranges span from entry to senior, with additional monthly incentives and first-month guarantees. Reliable driving record required.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 0-1 years of automotive-related experience preferred.
• Valid driver’s license with a safe driving record required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough vehicle inspections in line with Manheim standards.
• Document vehicle condition accurately in inspection systems.
• Prepare and submit daily activity and production reports.
• Collaborate with teams to support client success.

Skills

Automotive knowledge

Attention to detail

Valid driver’s license

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Salesforce.com

Job description

Manheim Vehicle Condition Inspector

Candidates may be hired at one of the following levels depending on experience, qualifications, and business need:

Vehicle Conditioning Inspector - Level 1

Hourly Pay Range: $15.10 - $18.89 - $22.69 per hour

Vehicle Conditioning Inspector - Level 2

Hourly Pay Range: $16.59 - $20.72 - $24.86 per hour

Vehicle Conditioning Inspector - Senior Level

Hourly Pay Range: $18.17 - $22.74 - $27.31 per hour

Additional Compensation

• Monthly performance incentive based on inspection volume. Inspectors who achieve target production levels can earn approximately $750 per month, while top performers can earn $1,000+ per month.
• Guaranteed incentive during the first three full months
• Month of Hire: Prorated guarantee up to $750
• First Full Month: Guaranteed $750
• Second Full Month: Guaranteed $500
• Third Full Month: Guaranteed $500
• Reimbursement provided for business use of a personal vehicle

We are currently accepting applicants at all levels. Please see the minimum requirements for each level of the role below.

Job Description (Applies To All Levels)

The Conditioning Inspector functions as a key member of the Manheim Inspections team, responsible for conducting on-site vehicle condition inspections. This role provides accurate, detailed, and timely documentation of vehicle condition in accordance with Manheim inspection standards, supporting client trust, marketplace transparency, and inventory flow.

Vehicle Condition Inspectors deliver consistent, high-quality inspections, acting as brand ambassadors for Cox Automotive, and actively engaging dealers to grow participation in Manheim's inspection services.

This role requires the ability to work with minimal supervision while demonstrating increasing independence, sound judgment, and problem-solving skills.

Primary Responsibilities & Essential Functions

Vehicle Inspection & Documentation

• Conduct thorough vehicle inspections in accordance with Manheim inspection standards.
• Locate, start, move, inspect, and return vehicles safely on dealer client lots.
• Verify vehicle identification, VINs, mileage, sub-series, and options; ensure accurate system entry.
• Inspect and document vehicle exterior condition, including tires, frame, glass, panels, and mechanical components.
• Inspect and document interior condition, including seating, dashboard, and installed options.
• Perform basic mechanical checks across powertrain, drivetrain, and electrical components.
• Identify and document damage, missing components, or inoperable features.

Client Engagement & Territory Management

• Build trust with dealer clients through consistent quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
• Educate clients on the value of Manheim Marketplace and mobile inspection services.
• Proactively engage with dealers to increase inspection volume and maintain active participation.
• Leverage data, insights, and partner input to maximize inspection efficiency and territory productivity.
• Adapt to changes in daily appointments and schedules to ensure effective dealer coverage.

Reporting, Tools & Collaboration

• Prepare and submit daily activity and production reports.
• Utilize Salesforce.com for reporting, lead management, and customer performance tracking.
• Collaborate closely with Wholesale Specialists, peers, and other Manheim teams to support client success.
• Work effectively within a continuous improvement and Lean environment, contributing to process enhancement.

Safety, Compliance & Standards

• Maintain production expectations as established by leadership.
• Demonstrate a visible commitment to safety by following all safety and health procedures.
• Participate actively in Safety Excellence initiatives.
• Comply with Manheim inspection standards, including the NAAA Frame/Structure Damage Policy.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Role-Specific Requirements

Conditioning Inspector - Level 1

Summary

Entry-level role responsible for conducting vehicle inspections under established processes while learning Manheim inspection standards, tools, and client engagement practices.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED required. Minimal automotive knowledge preferred (body and mechanical). 0-1 Years Of Automotive-related Experience Preferred. Valid driver's license with a safe driving record required. Ability to meet physical and mental demands of the role within required timeframes.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct basic vehicle inspections with accuracy and attention to detail
• Safely move and handle vehicles on dealer lots
• Accurately document vehicle condition and data in inspection systems
• Develop working knowledge of inspection standards and client expectations

Conditioning Inspector - Level 2

Summary

Intermediate role responsible for independently managing assigned inspection activity, delivering high-quality inspections, and supporting growth within the assigned territory.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED plus 3+ years of experience in a related field. The right candidate could also have a different combination, such as any level degree/certification beyond a HS diploma/GED; or 5 years' experience in a related field. 1-2 Years Of Automotive-related Experience Preferred. Valid driver's license with a safe driving record required. Ability to meet physical and mental demands of the role within required timeframes.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently conduct detailed and complex vehicle inspections
• Manage daily inspection schedules efficiently across dealer locations
• Build strong working relationships with dealer clients
• Utilize data and insights to expand inspection volume and efficiency
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and team collaboration

Conditioning Inspector - Senior Level

Summary

Senior role responsible for advanced vehicle inspections, mentoring peers, and serving as a trusted inspection professional within the assigned territory.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma/GED plus 5 years' experience in a related field. The right candidate could also have a different combination, such as any level degree/certification beyond a HS diploma/GED and 3 years' experience; or 7 years' experience in related field. Previous Vehicle Inspection Experience Required. Strong automotive knowledge (body and mechanical) required. 2-3 Years Of Automotive-related Experience Strongly Preferred. 1 year of service with Manheim Inspections recommended. Valid driver's license with a safe driving record required. Ability to meet physical and mental demands of the role within required timeframes.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform advanced and high-complexity vehicle inspections
• Serve as a subject matter resource for inspection standards and best practices
• Support onboarding and development of less experienced Mobile Inspectors
• Maintain strong dealer relationships and inspection quality standards
• Model safety, professionalism, and operational excellence

USD 16.59 - 24.86 per hour

Compensation:

Hourly pay rate is in the range of $16.59 - $24.86/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