Claims Specialist III, Property Large Loss (Seattle or Tacoma, WA - WFH)

Nationwide•Washington, DC

5d•$88,000 - $132,000•Remote

About The Position

Nationwide is seeking a Claims Specialist III to evaluate and resolve serious-exposure and large-loss property claims. The role investigates claims, evaluates liability and coverage, negotiates resolutions, expedites settlements, and controls loss and litigation costs in accordance with claims practices and company guidelines. The specialist handles assigned claims with limited direction, including complicated and catastrophic losses, and provides customers with support throughout the claims process. This is a work-from-home position for someone residing in the assigned multistate Western territory, ideally in the Seattle or Tacoma, Washington area. The role involves travel to policy locations, typically three to four days per week and up to 50% travel, using a company vehicle. Inspections may be onsite or virtual. Relocation assistance may be available to qualified candidates who live more than 50 miles from the ideal locations. Catastrophe duty is required, and the position may involve irregular, extended, non-standard, and overnight work. The specialist also supports team capability by acting for the Claims Manager when needed, mentoring and training less experienced associates, and providing leadership on claim matters. The role reports to the Claims Manager and is an individual contributor position. It is exempt from overtime eligibility.

Requirements

At least five years of experience handling property claims, insurance processing, or field claims adjusting.
Solid experience or proficiency with Xactimate.
Experience writing estimates and handling claims from start to finish.
Construction experience or background, such as residential, roofing, remodeling, or water mitigation.
Strong customer-service competency.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Successful completion of required claims certification schools or courses.
State licensing where required.
Obtain Xactimate Level 1 certification within one year of the start date and Xactimate Level 2 certification within two years of employment.
General knowledge of insurance theory and practices, contracts, and their application.
Knowledge of property estimating and automated claims systems, and of investigation, consultation, and settlement activities for extensive property damage claims.
Ability to guide customers through the claims process and provide a positive customer experience.
Analytical and problem-solving skills to resolve coverage, jurisdictional law, policy exclusion, and exception issues.
Ability to establish repair requirements and cost estimates, evaluate property claims, and advise on claim handling.
Organizational skills to prioritize work.
Ability to communicate effectively with policyholders, claimants, repairpersons, attorneys, agents, and the general public.
Ability to efficiently operate a personal computer and related claims and business software.
Ability to safely access and inspect rooftops using a ladder, including first- and second-story roofs with pitches up to 8/12.
Valid driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record under Nationwide standards.
Must be available for catastrophe duty and willing to work irregular hours, travel, and possible overnight assignments.

Nice To Haves

Large-loss property claims experience.
Undergraduate degree or equivalent experience.
Advanced degree in law or a related field.
Professional development such as IIA or CPCU.

Responsibilities

Handle assigned claims promptly and effectively, including complicated and catastrophic losses, with limited direction and oversight.
Make decisions within delegated authority and recommend settlement values in accordance with company policies and procedures.
Pay claims accurately based on policy provisions, state mandates, and fee schedules.
Determine applicable policy coverage and use standard methodologies and company guidelines to conclude cases.
Open, close, and adjust reserves to ensure they are adequate under company practices.
Maintain knowledge of relevant court decisions, claims principles and practices, innovations, policy changes, local repair procedures, and local market pricing.
Act for the Claims Manager as needed; mentor, lead, and provide one-on-one training to less experienced claims associates, and assist with training and presentations.
Create and analyze severe incident reports, reinsurance reports, and other information for corporate office, claims management, and underwriting.
Partner with the Special Investigation Unit and Subrogation to identify fraud and subrogation opportunities.
Assist general counsel in preparing files for suit, trial, or subrogation, and consult claims staff and defense counsel on discovery and case-specific litigation strategy.
Conduct follow-ups using claims and related business systems.
Deliver strong customer service to internal, external, current, and prospective Nationwide customers.
Conduct physical property inspections, including rooftop inspections, and work at loss sites as required.
Perform other responsibilities as assigned.

Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Life insurance
Short- and long-term disability coverage
Paid time off, including a minimum of 18 days per full calendar year for newly hired associates, prorated quarterly based on hire date
Nine paid holidays
Eight hours of Lifetime paid time off
Eight hours of Unity Day paid time off
401(k) with company match
Company-paid pension plan
Business-casual attire
Company vehicle with personal use, gas, and maintenance included
Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates more than 50 miles from the ideal candidate locations