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Collision Estimator

Caliber Collision · Carol Stream, IL · $26.00–$35.00 an hour · Full time

Posted Jul 10, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a time you used sales skills to win a customer's repair when they were considering another shop.

What they are checking: Whether they can build trust and close, since commission and shop volume depend on converting estimates to repairs.

Your Motor Vehicle Physical Damage Appraiser license is required here. How do you keep your knowledge current?

What they are checking: Whether they take licensing and training like I-CAR seriously as repair methods change.

Tell me about a time an estimate you wrote missed something important. How did you fix it, and what did you learn?

What they are checking: Whether they own errors and improve their process, since missed damage hurts cycle time and trust.

What would you do

The insurance adjuster refuses to pay for a repair step you know the OEM procedure requires. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they can stand firm with documentation for a safe repair while keeping a working relationship with the insurer.

A customer is frustrated that their repair is taking longer than promised because of parts delays. How do you handle the conversation?

What they are checking: Whether they keep customers updated honestly and proactively, which the posting calls post repair plan communication.

You are checking in three customers at once and the phone keeps ringing. How do you keep everyone feeling taken care of?

What they are checking: Whether they can stay organized and friendly when the front counter gets busy.

About the work

Walk me through how you write an estimate on a vehicle that just came in after an accident.

What they are checking: Whether they have a thorough, repeatable process that catches damage early and limits supplements later.

Which estimating systems have you used, like CCC, Mitchell or Audatex, and how do you handle a not-included operation?

What they are checking: Whether they know estimating software and can capture labor the system leaves out, which protects shop profit.

How do you handle a vehicle that might be a total loss? Walk me through the steps.

What they are checking: Whether they understand total loss thresholds and the paperwork and communication involved with insurers and owners.

What do you know about DRP programs, and how do they change the way you write and process an estimate?

What they are checking: Whether they understand insurer partner guidelines, since DRP rules shape estimates, photos and paperwork.

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The full job description

As published by Caliber Collision.

Service Center Carol Stream JOB SUMMARY Caliber Collision has an immediate job opening for a Collision Estimator to perform all-purpose duties, which may include, but not limited to: Writing estimates, conducting process reviews, checking in customer vehicles, completing final customer paperwork prior to vehicle delivery (DRP, final invoice), finalizing total loss administration and providing post repair plan communication including all vehicle status updates to customers while complying with all Caliber safety rules, guidelines and company standards. OUR COLLISION ESTIMATORS FOR THIS POSITION CAN MAKE UP TO: • $26-$35 / per hour! BENEFITS OF JOINING THE CALIBER FAMILY • Benefits from day one: Immediately eligible for medical, dental and vision • Industry Comparable Pay – Paid weekly • Paid Vacation & Holidays – Can begin accruing day 1 • Paid Skilled Trainings and Certifications – I-CAR • Career growth opportunities – we promote from within! REQUIREMENTS • 2+ years of collision estimating experience; sales experience preferred • Must be 21 years of age or older • Must have a valid driver’s license and be eligible for coverage under our company insurance policy • Must possess a Motor Vehicle Physical Damage Appraisers License ABILITIES/SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE • Ability to do consistent physical activity – reach below and above shoulder level, kneeling, bending, and squatting, and lifting objects over 50 lbs • Must have prior experience with CCC1 or similar estimating software • You have an advance understanding and knowledge of the repair process/procedures • Strong sales orientation • Be able to understand instructions – written and verbal • Can prioritize competing tasks and adapt easily to a fast-paced environment Caliber has grown beyond 1700 centers nationwide and features a full range of automotive services, including Caliber Collision , one of the nation’s largest auto collision repair provider across 41 states; Caliber Auto Glass for glass repair and replacement, Protech Automotive Services for mobile diagnostic scanning and calibration, powered by hands-on experts and Caliber Fleet Services for all services, which includes collision repair and full-service auto care - offering you a holistic solution to fleet care. With the Purpose of Restoring the Rhythm of Your Life®, Caliber’s more than 30,000 teammates are committed to getting customers back on the road safely — and back to the rhythm of their lives — every day. By joining Caliber , you can help us Restore the Rhythm of our Customers Lives. We see the potential in every member of our team and look for every opportunity to advance their careers. We believe in consistent career training on leadership skills and new technologies to make sure every teammate has an opportunity to achieve their career goals. Caliber is an Equal Opportunity Employer Caliber uses E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires. Must be eligible to work in the U.S. with no restrictions.

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