Bodyshop estimator

[dn53]

Hi i'm wondering if anyone here works as an estimator at any bodyshops/icbc. I am currently in the auto tech trade but it is an option im looking to get into further down the road. A couple questions:

What kind of schooling would someone take for this, if any?
What kind of work would an estimator be doing at icbc (aside from estimating damage)
And of course the big one: what kind of wages is someone to expect as an estimator?

Like many, i'd imagine most would want to work as an estimator for ICBC

TIA.

[VR6GTI]

Having experience in the field is nice. There is courses you can take at the Automotive Training Centre. Estimator job at icbc is looking at vehicles damged in an accident or break in. Reviewing claims that an auto body shop have written. ICBC is cutting estimating jobs back because they get bodyshops to handle most claims now a days.
Anywhere from 30-100k+

[Boyd Richmond]

What kind of schooling would someone take for this, if any?
Most of the estimators we encounter are taught on the job. What you learn in school can give you the basics, but there is no substitute for real world applications. Plus, with how the policies and procedures in this industry change almost overnight, a lot of what is taught in school is out dated or not in practice by the time a student is in a real world application
What kind of work would an estimator be doing at icbc (aside from estimating damage)
ICBC is pretty bread & butter estimating (ie. basic) As an ICBC Estimator, your primary role is the damages to the vehicle. Personal injury and settlement are handled by the Adjuster. It's true too as VR6GTI noted that ICBC is starting to phase out claim centre estimates in favour of their certified shops, as the shops have the ability to tear the car down and supply more comprehensive and complete estimates.
And of course the big one: what kind of wages is someone to expect as an estimator?
Again, as VR6GTI noted, entry level is approx $35K/year to start, and depending on where you are (AB vs. BC)

[dn53]

Thanks for the replies but one last question:

How do most estimators start on their career? I know its a vague question but id like to know what most people do (aka i dont want to be taking a course thats essentially useless).

[Boyd Richmond]

Originally Posted by mangoo-

Thanks for the replies but one last question:

How do most estimators start on their career? I know its a vague question but id like to know what most people do (aka i dont want to be taking a course thats essentially useless).

I personally started pushing a broom, then worked my way up through the office as a parts receiver, and did quality control. I then took the ICBC certification course and started writing small estimates and worked my way up through the system. Others have started as technicians. There are a handful of employees within our company whom did take the course from the Automotive Training Center, and as they offer an on-site practicum, it's a great way to get your foot in the door.

[terryjai]

Originally Posted by mangoo-

Thanks for the replies but one last question:

How do most estimators start on their career? I know its a vague question but id like to know what most people do (aka i dont want to be taking a course thats essentially useless).

i did VCC (body work) and BCIT (Mechanic) for the basic skillset

then afterwards worked at a shop and worked my way up from broom pusher/detailer (which everyone always starts at, IMO) after some years left the shop and now working for insurance.