Vehicle Damage Assessor

Mesh-AI Limited; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 38,000 - GBP 44,000; Full time

Job summary

An automotive retailer is seeking a Vehicle Damage Assessor in Newcastle upon Tyne. This role involves evaluating vehicle damage, preparing repair estimates, and managing workflow within the bodyshop. Ideal candidates will possess strong technical knowledge, communication skills, and an understanding of modern vehicle repair methods. A competitive salary package is offered. This full-time, permanent position provides opportunities for professional development in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Competitive salaries with structured pay scales

Generous annual leave

Enhanced family leave

Discounted technology purchases

Eyecare vouchers

24/7 access to GP services

Dental insurance

Critical illness cover

Discounted gym memberships

Qualifications

• Strong technical knowledge necessary to evaluate vehicle repairs.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with customers and teams.
• Ability to update documentation with precision.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough inspections of damaged vehicles.
• Liaise with customers, insurers, and internal teams.
• Identify cost-effective and safe repair solutions.
• Update job files and records accurately.
• Support flow planning for repairs.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Maintain knowledge of vehicle repair techniques.

Skills

IMI Accreditation – preferred (ATA VDA or equivalent)

Strong understanding of modern vehicle repair methods and materials

Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills

Confident communicator

High level of accuracy and attention to detail

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Competent IT skills

Experience working in an accident repair centre or bodyshop environment

Knowledge of hybrid and electric vehicle repair considerations

Customer‑focused mindset

Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively

Job description

Newcastle upon Tyne, England upon Tyne, United Kingdom

About us

We are one of the top three automotive retailers in the UK, proudly representing 32 manufacturer brands, selling a huge range of new and used vehicles from over 150 dealerships across the UK and Ireland.

We believe our people are our greatest asset, and we’re committed to recognising the valuable contribution each person makes. That’s why we continue to invest in a leading rewards and benefits package designed to support your career, wellbeing, and life outside of work.

Salary: £44,000 OTE with a Basic of £38,000

Full Time Permanent

Overview

Are you looking for a role where you can truly make a difference, continuously develop your skills, and work at the forefront of automotive technology? An exciting opportunity has arisen at Lookers Paint & Body Centre North Shields as a Vehicle Damage Assessor

The Vehicle Damage Assessor (VDA) plays a crucial role in accurately evaluating vehicle damage, preparing detailed repair estimates, and supporting the smooth flow of work within the bodyshop. This position requires strong technical knowledge, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast‑paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough inspections of damaged vehicles to assess the full extent of repairs required.
• Liaise with customers, insurers, engineers, and internal teams to ensure clarity and agreement on repair methods and costs.
• Identify the most cost‑effective and safe repair solutions in line with industry standards.
• Update job files, documentation, and system records with precision and attention to detail.
• Support workflow planning by advising on repair times, parts requirements, and potential delays.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of vehicle construction, repair techniques, and industry best practices.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• IMI Accreditation – preferred (ATA VDA or equivalent)
• Strong understanding of modern vehicle repair methods and materials.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Confident communicator with the ability to explain technical information clearly.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Competent IT skills, including estimating software and bodyshop management systems.
• Experience working in an accident repair centre or bodyshop environment.
• Knowledge of hybrid and electric vehicle repair considerations.
• Customer‑focused mindset with a professional approach.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.

What This Role Offers

• Opportunity to work with a skilled and supportive team.
• Ongoing training and professional development, including IMI pathways.
• Competitive salary and benefits package (customisable to your organisation).
• A key position within a growing and reputable repair operation.

Core Benefits

• Competitive salaries with structured pay scales and progression as you grow within the business
• Generous annual leave that increases with your length of service
• Enhanced family leave, including 6 months’ full pay for maternity and adoption leave, and 2 weeks’ full pay for paternity leave
• Access to Techscheme for discounted technology purchases with flexible payments
• Eyecare vouchers to help cover vision care needs
• Smart Health – 24/7 access to GP services to support your mental and physical wellbeing
• Dental insurance for everyday dental care and unexpected treatments
• Critical illness cover for peace of mind during life's most challenging moments

Financial Wellbeing

• MyView PayNow – access a portion of your pay as you earn, with features to stream, save, and track your money through a user-friendly app
• Free will writing services to help plan for the future
• Flexible life assurance options and partner life assurance for added protection
• Discounted gym memberships to support an active lifestyle
• Travel insurance to help you explore with confidence
• Access to home and technology vouchers
• bYond card and a wide range of exclusive retail and lifestyle discounts

Lookers and Charles Hurst are an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to a working environment that is free from discrimination, is inclusive, and empowers our people to bring their whole self to work and reach their full potential.

We take our data protection responsibilities very seriously and are committed to upholding and respecting your privacy rights. Information about how we will process your data including the types of data we collect, the purposes for which we use it, who we may share it with and how long we keep it are set out in our privacy notice. It also includes information about your individual privacy rights. Please make sure you read our Privacy Notice so that you understand how we may collect and use your data.