Property Claims Specialist

Exercises independent discretion or judgment in the handling of assigned property claims. Serves as a consultant to claims adjusters in their handling of property losses.

• Candidate will service and ideally reside in the western side (west of I-81) of New York
• The position does require 24-hour availability for emergency claims service
• A company car is provided

• Establishes immediate contact with Policyholders and claimants.
• Conducts extensive investigations into causes and origins of all major property claims. Interviews insureds, claimants and others as required. Inspects property damage, reviews information to prepare estimates, evaluates and makes recommendations regarding coverage of claims, determines liability and total value of claims and negotiates settlements. Sets and maintains adequate reserves.
• Determines steps necessary to initiate investigation of a property loss. Uses outside experts and attorneys as required.
• Exercises discretion and independent judgment in evaluating property damage in order to determine the extent of damage. Determines liability and total value of claim, develops estimate and obtains an agreed scope of work and cost of repair with contractor and/or Policyholder.
• Determines value as they apply to the coverage.
• Assigns and supervises the handling of property losses by independent adjusters when necessary. Advises claims adjusters regarding handling of claims.
• Documents claim files and submits final report to file for closure.
• Conducts related training of field office claims personnel in the branch and at the Home Office.
• Attends industry-related training programs to stay current on legal developments and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations impacting the operation of the department.
• Establishes and maintains relationships with local, state and regional organizations and agencies which are involved in related activities.
• Acts as coordinator of the Catastrophe Team activities at catastrophe site.

High school diploma, or GED, required. Five years experience in property claims adjusting required. Successful completion of an accepted property estimating training program, or five years of experience in construction, required. Successful completion of Introduction to Claims (AIC 30) and AIC 35 preferred. Working knowledge of Windows software required. The position requires the incumbent to serve on Catastrophe Team, which may include travel on short notice to other locations for periods in excess of two consecutive weeks. Appropriate license as required by state. Valid driver's license and good driving record required. Position requires the incumbent to provide 24-hour availability for emergency claims service.