Vehicle Damage Assessor (VDA)

Produce initial and updated estimates as specified by insurers/customers, ensuring that the vehicle repair can be carried out safely, to correct specification, efficiently, and that by doing so, a satisfactory profit margin can be generated. The expectations extend to performing any required customer service functions as part of the Gemini "front of house".,

• The Role profile for the Vehicle Damage Assessor covers all estimating processes to reinstate the pre accident vehicle condition.



• Has knowledge, awareness and understands all the strip, repair, or replacement of various vehicles systems, that includes complex electrical systems, air conditioning, "Stop-Start" technology, dashboards, headlining, front or rear sub frames, engine/transmission unit removal, wiring looms, Hybrid & Electric competence, and complex Interiors.



• Has knowledge, experience and understands various cosmetic panel repairs including panel skills, dent removal skills, shrinking, filling and reinstatement of profiles, cosmetic aluminium repairs, complex structural repairs, and jig and misalignment correction.



• Understands BS welding skills, MIG brazing, and Bonding & Riveting, as well as an in-depth knowledge of materials including High Strength Steels.



• Has knowledge, experience and understands the preparation of a vehicle to accept primers, base coats, lacquers, 3 stage pearls, and tinted lacquers, mask a vehicle, undertake a range of roller priming, and spray priming, application of topcoats and lacquers, rectification of imperfections and polish.



• Has knowledge, experience and understands the reassembly of vehicles, to undertake diagnostic and resetting checks, four-wheel alignment correction, overall quality standards check, and road testing.



• Understands and undertakes all aspects of parts procurement and the various customer services skills, interaction, and processes associated with all our clients.



• Has competence using estimating platforms, use of escribe, vehicle appraisals, insurance contracts, various communication methods, valuations, imaging, appreciation of sub-contractors, parts procurement, invoicing, quality control, and above all, learn how to create profitable work for Gemini.



• Can prepare manual and IT based estimates efficiently ensuring conformity to the requirements laid down by the insurance company/customers, in order that customer care/satisfaction standards are always maintained.



• Order parts (if applicable) ensuring they are supplied correctly, in full and in time for the vehicle's arrival; this may include returning parts that are incorrect or not required. Has the required ability to check part received from suppliers to be genuine, or second hand for suitability, before labelling the parts and locating for future traceability.



• To maintain a file of all estimates undertaken making sure that all work that is not automatically authorised is clearly identified. Ensure that any such work does not commence until authorisation is gained, following-up any unauthorised estimates and reporting reasons. Once authorisation has been gained, liaise with the body shop personnel, and make sure that they understand fully the work to be done as per the estimate. Alternately communicate to the bodyshop if, by agreement with the insurance company, the vehicle is deemed a "total loss".



• To be aware of and adhere to all Health and Safety regulations and policies applicable to your position and working environment.


TECHNICAL JOB KNOWLEDGE:

The level and scope of the Vehicle Damage Assessor will be to maintain the outcomes of VDA Accreditation, Audatex, IMI Customer Service Practitioner Level 2, Level 3 ADAS, and IMIAL Level 3 Hybrid & Electric Vehicle.

It is expected that that the job holder will research emerging technical knowledge and automotive developments that may be present within present and future vehicles that may affect the repair following accident damage. This may involve consequential formal training, distance, or remote training.

OTHER DUTIES:

Due to the size and complexity of the establishment, you will undertake any other reasonable tasks or duties that are deemed to be within your capability, as directed by a senior manager of the Group to whom you have a reporting relationship.

Up to £39,780 OTE - includes site bonus and is dependable on experience and qualifications.

A minimum of 3 years experience in the role is preferred.

Hours are 8am - 5pm Monday - Friday

• Competitive salary plus team bonus


• 30 days holiday including public holidays, plus additional days with service


• Pension contributions


• Recommend a friend technician bonus incentive


• Long Service Awards - colleague recognition scheme


• Health cash plan and Rewards platform - claim back medical costs & high street discounts


• Cycle to work scheme


Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: Up to £39,780.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension


• Cycle to work scheme


• Free parking


• On-site parking


• Referral programme


Supplemental pay types:

• Bonus scheme


• Performance bonus