As an automotive engineer assessor or vehicle damage assessor you will either be working in the motor insurance industry, the motor trade in a bodyshop, vehicle hire sector, the police or companies with large motor fleets.

The focus of the role is to methodically and accurately inspect all aspects of a damaged motor vehicle, that has invariably been involved in an accident.

An assessor is expected to identify and record vehicle damage and decide the safest and most economical method of repair, to return the vehicle to its pre-accident state.

Assessors need an understanding of correct methods of repair referencing either vehicle manufacturer or authenticated methods gained though practical experience or recognised computer-based estimating software. They will work with all types of vehicles including petrol, diesel, electric and hybrid.

An assessor will need to stay up to date of the ever-changing technologies and vehicle safety systems.

An assessor will need excellent communication skills, be able to negotiate and have a methodical, accurate approach to their work.

What does an automotive engineer assessor do?

Assessors will normally work with any motor vehicle that is in the vehicle parc irrespective of age. There are, however, opportunities to specialise or concentrate on various types of work or sectors:

  • Accident damage reports
  • Accident reconstruction reports
  • Agricultural vehicles and machinery
  • Arbitration/mediation
  • Caravans
  • Classic & vintage vehicles
  • Commercial vehicles
  • Diminution surveys
  • End of lease/hire inspections
  • Fire investigations
  • Forensic investigations
  • Hybrid & electric vehicles
  • HPI and MIAFTR checks
  • Insurance fraud
  • Large passenger carrying vehicles
  • Litigation
  • Mechanical failure
  • Motorcycles
  • Paint defects
  • Plant & machinery
  • Post repair inspections and reports
  • Pre-purchase inspections
  • Private light goods vehicles
  • Re-insurance reports
  • Road worthiness reports
  • Salvage inspections – write off evaluation
  • Valuation disputes

If you want to investigate a career as an engineer assessor, here are some other useful links:

Government Job Profile: Automotive Engineer

Institute for apprenticeships: Vehicle Damage Assessor