Job Opportunities: Auto Claims Appraiser (Remote within LA / Santa Monica / Van Nuys (8553)

Job Overview

The Auto Claims Appraiser contributes to Wawanesa’s goal of delivering an exceptional and consistent claims service experience through the inspection and estimation of automobile physical damage claims including market value calculations.  Daily travel is required within Los Angeles, Santa Monica and/or Van Nuys. 

Compensation:

• The pay range for this position is $34.95 - $52.43 per hour, depending on experience.
• This position is considered non-exempt for purposes of wage-hour law, which means you are eligible for overtime pay for hours worked in excess of 40 hours in a workweek or more than 8 hours in a workday.

Job Responsibilities

• Inspect, evaluate and write appraisal estimates pertaining to the physical damage of automobiles using estimating software
• Communicate with insureds, auto body shops, contractors and adjusters as required to ensure accurate and complete estimates 
• Negotiate automobile total losses
• Establish and maintain business relationship with independent repair contractors/vendor
• Assist adjusting personnel when necessary by providing expert advice on auto damage losses
• Assist in resolving issues that arise in regards to estimates
• Manage timely and efficient inspection appointments at various locations
• Perform re-inspections as assigned
• Maintain accurate records based on company standards and policies within the claims system
• Supplement the National Catastrophe Team as required for Corporate Catastrophe Response in any region
• Remain up-to-date with legislative changes, trends in the insurance industry, estimating practices and developments in vehicle repair procedures and materials.
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• 3+ years auto appraising experience
• Comprehensive knowledge of automobile repair procedures
• Strong knowledge and ability to use Mitchell Estimating Software
• Physically able to drive long distances
• Effective communication skills both oral and written
• Ability to work in a fast paced, changing environment
• Strong negotiation skills
• Position requires the ability to lift up to 15 lbs. on a daily basis
• Position requires medium mobility at appraisal locations to include frequent bending and crouching to ground level, inside tight spaces, climbing ladders and periods of upward viewing and stretching to perform comprehensive estimates with photographs
• A valid driver license is required, along with maintaining a clean driving record.  Position requires frequent extended periods of sitting behind the wheel of a company vehicle

Benefits and Other Total Rewards Components Include:

• Medical, Dental and Vision
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
• Voluntary benefit plans – accident, hospital indemnity and critical illness
• Supplemental short and long-term disability benefits
• Life insurance
• Enhanced 401K plan
• Paid time off (PTO) accrued at 0.0693 hours/per hour worked to a maximum annual accrual of 18 days (135 hours)
• You will be eligible for Wawanesa’s annual bonus plan, entitled “Goal Achievement Plan” (GAP), that rewards employees for driving Wawanesa’s success.
• Tuition Assistance and much more

If you have questions about compensation and benefits, please contact our Human Resources department at 858-874-5404 or email SD_human_resources@wawanesa.com.