Material Damage Appraiser

8AK American Hallmark General Agency; Texas; On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Hallmark Financial Services in Fort Worth, TX is seeking an Auto Damage Adjuster to service customers, appraise vehicle damage, and determine total loss values. You will exercise independent decision making while coordinating with claim representatives and repair facilities.

The role requires experience with estimating platforms, strong negotiation and communication skills, and a Texas Adjuster License or eligibility.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate/bachelor's preferred.
• Texas Adjuster License required or preferred depending on jurisdiction.
• Experience in auto damage appraisal, total loss evaluations, or related insurance claims preferred.

Responsibilities

• Receives assignment from Claim Representatives electronically on all types of vehicles.
• Determines best course of action for vehicle damage evaluation and total loss/repair feasibility.
• Verifies damage aligns with loss facts; negotiates costs with shops.
• Changes reserves and issues payments; writes estimates/supplements.
• Requests photos to write estimates or redline shop estimates.
• Schedules appraisal appointments with customers and shops.
• Uploads all work product into the claim system and documents correspondence.
• Works with Casualty and Auto Physical Damage personnel to adjust first/third party claims.
• Notifies Total Loss Claim Representative of total loss vehicles and manages salvage workflow.
• Mentors other staff and provides guidance when asked.

Skills

Vehicle damage appraisal

Estimate interpretation

Negotiation

Independent decision-making

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Claims systems proficiency

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred

Texas Adjuster License

Tools

CCC

Mitchell

Audatex

Job description

Job Description: Position Summary: Provides service to all customers and anticipates their need for communication, results and action. Responsible for the prompt, accurate and efficient appraisal and payment of vehicle repair damage and vehicle total loss values, from moderate to severe damage, on all types of vehicles, while exercising independent decision making skills and judgment.

Essential Functions

• Receives assignment from Claim Representatives electronically on all types of vehicles.
• Determines best course of action with regards to vehicle damage evaluation (i.e. Desk review, shop estimate/photo review) Using the documentation available, determines the extent of damage and whether the vehicle is repairable or not economical to repair.
• Verifies the damage to the vehicle is related to the loss facts given by the Claims Representative.
• Changes reserves, negotiate agreed repair costs with shops, determines total loss vehicle values and issues payment.
• Requests photos from owner or shop for in order to write an estimate/supplement or redline a shop estimate/supplement.
• Contacts customers and shops to setup appraisal appointments.
• Uploads all work product into the claim and the dispatch system.
• Documents all correspondence, discussions and decisions in the ACD or claim file.
• Works closely with Casualty and Auto Physical Damage personnel toward the successful adjustment of first and third party physical damage claims.
• Notifies the Total Loss Claim Representative of total loss vehicles and, when appropriate, moves the salvage to Copart or other storage free places.
• Provides guidance to other Claims personnel, assists in their training when asked.
• Occasionally gives technical direction and authority when requested by Team Manager.
• Provides quality service to all customers.
• Any other tasks or responsibilities assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of vehicle construction, repair methods, and total loss valuation
• Ability to interpret and analyze estimates, photos, and repair documentation
• Effective negotiation skills with repair facilities and vendors
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines
• Proficiency in claims systems and standard office software
• Customer-focused mindset with the ability to handle difficult conversations professionally

Education & Experience Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in business, automotive technology, or a related field preferred
• Minimum of 2–5 years of experience in auto damage appraisal, auto body repair, insurance claims, or a related field
• Prior experience handling moderate to severe vehicle damage and total loss evaluations strongly preferred
• Experience working with estimating platforms (e.g., CCC, Mitchell, or Audatex) preferred
• Knowledge of insurance claims handling processes and state‑specific regulations preferred
• Texas Adjuster License required

Hallmark Financial Services is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.