Position
Salary

How much does a Auto Body Estimator make?

The average salary for a Auto Body Estimator is $73,461 per year in the US.

Auto Body Estimators play a key role in the automotive repair industry. They look at damaged vehicles and determine how much it will cost to fix them. This job requires good math skills and knowledge about cars. Salary for this role varies based on experience and location.

Auto Body Estimators can earn between $40,000 and $108,000 a year. On average, an estimator makes about $73,461 each year. This range includes many factors. Starting estimators earn less, while those with more experience make more. A few experienced estimators can earn even more. Being in a big city or an area with many car repair shops can also boost earnings. This job offers good pay for those who are skilled and work hard.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Auto Body Estimator?

Job seekers can look forward to higher salaries in several cities for auto body estimator roles. St. Louis, MO, tops the list with an average salary of $103,279. Other high-paying cities include Houston, TX, and Los Angeles, CA, offering $98,861 and $85,404, respectively. These cities present great opportunities for those in the field. Phoenix, AZ, Las Vegas, NV, and Fresno, CA, also offer competitive salaries. For instance, Phoenix and Las Vegas offer around $78,000, while Fresno provides nearly $72,000. These figures indicate that skilled estimators can find rewarding positions in these locations.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Auto Body Estimator jobs, highlighting St. Louis, MO with the highest at $103,279 and Grand Rapids, MI with the lowest at $58,555.
  1. St. Louis, MO
    Average Salary: $103,279
    In St. Louis, working as an estimator involves analyzing vehicle damage and cost for repair. Companies like Enterprise and Hertz offer many opportunities for growth. Professionals in this city enjoy a stable job market with numerous repair shops needing skilled estimators.
    Find Auto Body Estimator jobs in St. Louis, MO


  2. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $98,861
    Houston's vibrant economy benefits those in this role. Estimators here assess damage for repairs and work with a variety of clients. Major companies like Enterprise and Hertz look for knowledgeable professionals. The city's growth means plenty of job opportunities.
    Find Auto Body Estimator jobs in Houston, TX


  3. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $85,404
    Los Angeles offers a dynamic environment for estimators. They work with many companies to evaluate vehicle damage. With major firms such as Enterprise and Hertz, professionals enjoy a competitive salary. The diverse job market provides many paths for career advancement.
    Find Auto Body Estimator jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  4. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $78,155
    In Phoenix, estimators assess vehicle damage and cost repairs. The city's growing automotive industry offers numerous opportunities. Companies like Enterprise and Hertz need skilled estimators. The warm climate and lower cost of living add to the appeal.
    Find Auto Body Estimator jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  5. Las Vegas, NV
    Average Salary: $73,324
    Las Vegas offers an exciting job market for estimators. They work with many local companies to evaluate repairs. Enterprise and Hertz are prominent employers in this city. The entertainment industry and tourism provide unique challenges and growth opportunities.
    Find Auto Body Estimator jobs in Las Vegas, NV


  6. Fresno, CA
    Average Salary: $72,077
    Fresno provides a balanced environment for estimators. They assess vehicle damage and repair costs. Companies like Enterprise and Hertz are looking for professionals. The city's lower cost of living and mild weather make it an attractive place to work.
    Find Auto Body Estimator jobs in Fresno, CA


  7. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $71,278
    Sacramento offers a stable job market for estimators. They analyze vehicle damage and repair costs. Major firms like Enterprise and Hertz provide many opportunities. The city's central location and moderate climate make it a good place to live and work.
    Find Auto Body Estimator jobs in Sacramento, CA


  8. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $66,171
    Portland offers a unique setting for estimators. They work with a variety of local companies to assess damage. Enterprise and Hertz are prominent employers. The city’s focus on sustainability and quality of life adds to the professional experience.
    Find Auto Body Estimator jobs in Portland, OR


  9. Grand Rapids, MI
    Average Salary: $58,555
    Grand Rapids provides a strong job market for estimators. They assess vehicle damage and repair costs. Companies like Enterprise and Hertz need skilled professionals. The city’s rich automotive history and lower cost of living make it an appealing place to work.
    Find Auto Body Estimator jobs in Grand Rapids, MI

What are the best companies a Auto Body Estimator can work for?

Job seekers looking for Auto Body Estimator positions can explore opportunities at G & C Auto Body, Inc., which offers a competitive average salary of $102,500. This company provides a strong financial incentive for those entering the field. Gerber Collision & Glass also stands out with an average salary of $69,447, making it another excellent option for those seeking stability and good compensation in this career.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Auto Body Estimator jobs, highlighting G & C Auto Body, Inc. with the highest at $102,500 and Gerber Collision & Glass with the lowest at $69,447.
  1. G & C Auto Body, Inc.
    Average Salary: $102,500
    G & C Auto Body, Inc. offers competitive salaries for Auto Body Estimator jobs. This company operates in several locations, including California, New York, and Texas. Auto Body Estimators here get to work with a skilled team and state-of-the-art equipment. They value experience and offer opportunities to grow.


  2. Gerber Collision & Glass
    Average Salary: $69,447
    Gerber Collision & Glass provides a solid salary for Auto Body Estimators. With numerous locations across the United States, they offer diverse opportunities. Estimators work closely with clients to assess damage and prepare repair estimates. They focus on providing excellent customer service and professional development.

How to earn more as a Auto Body Estimator?

Becoming an Auto Body Estimator can lead to a rewarding career with good earnings. To increase your income in this role, consider these key factors. Each one can help you advance and earn more. Focus on these areas to boost your salary and job satisfaction.

First, gaining more experience is crucial. As you work more, you learn to handle repairs more efficiently. This leads to quicker estimates and higher client satisfaction. The more jobs you complete, the better you get at predicting costs and time frames. More experience also opens up higher-paying opportunities. Aim to work on a variety of repairs, from minor dents to major collisions.

Second, getting certifications can greatly help. Many employers value certified estimators. They show you have the skills and knowledge needed. Consider certifications from organizations like the Institute for Automotive Repair and Technology. These can make you more competitive in the job market.

  1. Gain more experience in auto body repair.
  2. Get certified by a recognized organization.
  3. Learn to use the latest software for estimating.
  4. Network with other professionals in the industry.
  5. Stay updated on industry trends and techniques.

Third, learning to use modern estimating software can increase your value. Software like DentMaster or Esticom helps you create accurate estimates faster. Being proficient with these tools can make you more efficient. This can lead to more jobs and higher pay.

Fourth, networking can open new doors. Connect with other estimators and repair shop owners. Attend industry events and join professional groups. These connections can lead to job opportunities that pay better. Also, sharing experiences and tips can help you improve your skills.

Lastly, staying updated on industry trends and techniques is important. The auto industry is always changing. Keeping up with new methods and technologies can make you more valuable. It shows you are committed to your career and willing to learn.

Currently 69 Auto Body Estimator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Auto Body Estimator in the US?

Learn what a Auto Body Estimator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Auto Body Estimator today.
Position
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Auto Body Estimator
69 Job Openings