Material Damage Appraiser

Position Overview

The Material Damage Appraiser role in Houston, TX, involves the thorough inspection, assessment, and negotiation of physical damage claims, coupled with delivering outstanding customer service. This position demands detailed technical expertise in vehicle repair techniques, proficiency with estimating software, and competence in total loss evaluations. Self-initiative, organizational skills, and the capability to autonomously handle a designated geographic area while ensuring accuracy and timely claim resolutions are essential.

Key Duties

• Organize travel plans efficiently within the assigned region to conduct prompt vehicle damage inspections.
• Assess damaged vehicles utilizing corporate protocols, OEM repair guidelines, and current industry standards.
• Employ estimating software to create detailed and precise repair evaluations for accident damages.
• Engage in repair estimate negotiations with customers' chosen repair facilities, fostering professional rapport.
• Oversee repair progression to confirm accuracy and adherence to timeframes.
• Ascertain vehicle repairability or total loss status following company directives.
• Perform total loss appraisals and establish fair salvage values.
• Authorize payments for approved damages within set authority boundaries as necessary.
• Keep thorough documentation, including claim records and timely correspondence with the Material Damage unit and Claims Department.
• Initiate prompt customer contact to arrange inspections and offer ongoing claim status updates.
• Complete inspections within service level standards, providing reliable cost estimates and repair timelines.
• Clarify the appraisal process, address customer inquiries, and maintain effective communication with repair shops.
• Support internal claims teams with expert advice on total loss assessments, unrelated prior damage, and repair feasibility.
• Maintain updated knowledge of vehicle technologies, repair methods, OEM standards, and industry developments through required continuing education.
• Implement the Company's Standard Claim Process and Material Damage Best Practices to ensure consistent, excellent claim handling quality.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Possession and maintenance of a Texas or Florida Adjuster License is mandatory.
• Additional state adjuster licenses may be necessary post-hire and must be acquired within specified timeframes.
• ASE and/or I-CAR certifications are advantageous but not mandatory.
• At least five years of experience in automobile damage appraisals with an insurance firm, independent appraisal agency, or collision repair shop.
• Proven skill in preparing comprehensive, accurate repair estimates for diverse vehicle types and damage levels.
• Strong grasp of collision repair techniques, OEM repair standards, repair versus replacement analysis, and total loss evaluations.
• Required experience with automotive estimating software; familiarity with CCC ONE is highly preferred.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, organization, and customer relation skills.
• Capable of independently managing a territory, prioritizing tasks, and fulfilling quality and service criteria.
• Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and ability to travel within the assigned area.

Desired Competencies

• Advanced analytical and decision-making capabilities.
• Skillful in establishing and sustaining effective relationships with customers, repair vendors, and internal teams.
• Highly self-driven with superb time management and organizational proficiency.
• Able to operate independently within a dynamic, goal-oriented environment while meticulous in detail.
• Dedicated to excellent customer service with a focus on quality claim resolution.