Auto Body Damage Manager

About the role

Avis Budget Group is hiring an Auto Body Damage Manager in Sacramento to lead the fleet services function covering vehicle damage repair, servicing and in-fleeting/de-fleeting of rental vehicles. The goal is to maximize fleet utilization and profitability while driving operational excellence, leading a high-performing team and keeping safety, efficiency and accountability across damage operations.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and communicate operating plans that maximize fleet utilization, and direct and control vehicle damage repair of fleet vehicles
• Manage team performance against business goals, including cost per estimate, overdue idle cars and vendor management/cycle time
• Assess damage daily to prioritize repairs and salvage, and ensure repair orders follow established guidelines
• Determine estimated labor hours, source repair parts and minimize repair cycle times
• Conduct monthly damage writer reviews and audits
• Forecast, budget and manage key financial drivers such as cost of repair
• Select and manage body shop relationships, negotiate rates, run semi-annual audits and ensure service levels and vendor policies are followed
• Oversee bus damage repair at bus locations and manage the employee lifecycle, including hiring, onboarding, training, recognition and performance management
• Handle employee relations fairly and ensure safety policies are followed

Required profile

• High school diploma required; 2-4 year college degree preferred (or equivalent)
• At least 2 years of management experience in a related field such as rental cars, automotive shops or service-oriented fields
• Prior experience writing damage estimates is preferable
• Valid driver's license and successful background check
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including early mornings, nights or weekends, and to lift 50 pounds

Required skills

• Financial acumen and forecasting
• Talent management, delegation and negotiation
• Written and verbal communication, investigation and problem-solving
• Vendor management

What we offer

• Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, plus optional group auto, home, pet, legal assistance and other benefits
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Training, employee discounts and an Employee Assistance Program

The annual starting salary is $75,000, depending on market, skills, education and experience.