20044 - Construction Claims Analyst

Virginia Department of Transportation•Richmond, VA

20h

About The Position

Provide agencywide leadership in the management and analysis of construction claims, statewide tort claim training, and quality assurance of investigations. The role is responsible for delivering detailed, legally sound analysis of construction claims in accordance with Va. Code § 33.2 1101, serving as the backup Appearance Officer during administrative proceedings, and developing lessons learned that support process and policy improvements.

Requirements

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with internal and external customers.
Ability to conduct quantitative analyses using methods and techniques that reflect various analytical practices.
Ability to develop research methodologies, communicate research results and develop recommendations.
Ability to gather and analyze data and prepare reports.
Ability to handle difficult situations diplomatically.
Ability to produce clear, evidence-based recommendations, reports and presentations for executive audiences.
Ability to work independently on multiple priorities, meet tight deadlines, and deliver high quality work products.
Ability to work independently, or in a team environment, in a professional manner with minimum supervision.
Knowledge of project management, productivity analysis, performance measurement, strategic planning, policy development and analysis, and public administration.
Skill in negotiation and dispute resolution skills.
Skill in the use of computers and software applications to include word processing, PowerPoint and Excel.
Ability to perform rigorous quality assurance reviews of investigation files, identify deficiencies or inconsistencies, and recommend corrective actions.
Ability to research, interpret, and apply relevant contract provisions, policies, statutes, and regulations.
Ability to track and evaluate performance using metrics and trends (timeliness, evidence sufficiency, systemic issues) and use findings to improve training, guidance, and procedures.
Skill in conducting quantitative analyses using methods and techniques that reflect various analytical practices.
Skill in delivering analysis of issues to executives, including issue framing, risk assessment, alternatives, and recommended resolution paths.
Skill in developing, updating, and delivering training including creation of curricula, job aids, scenario‑based exercises, and evaluation tools.
Skill in facilitating learning for diverse audiences, including investigators, supervisors, and cross‑disciplinary staff, both in‑person and virtually.
Skill in project management, productivity analysis, performance measurement, or strategic planning.
Skill in the use of computers and software applications to include word processing, PowerPoint, and Excel.

Nice To Haves

A combination of training, experience, or education in Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, Economics, Statistics, or related field desired.
Knowledge of investigation standards, evidence requirements, documentation protocols, and legal sufficiency criteria.
Knowledge of the Code of Virginia, including the Virginia Tort Claims Act and Construction Claims.

Responsibilities

Provide program management of the tort liability program to ensure prompt, thorough, and consistent investigations; oversee field visits and documentation standards for all claims.
Respond to communication pertaining to claim investigations and coordinate claim process handling across districts/residencies.
Update, implement, and train statewide on the Tort Claims Manual (District/Residency levels); which includes the overall process, automation, and investigation material.
Coordinate with the Office of the Attorney General and Division of Risk Management to address legal issues and questions of law related to tort claims.
Deliver high quality analysis of construction claim issues to executives, including issue framing, risk assessment, alternatives, and recommended resolution paths.
Serve as backup Appearance Officer when contractors participate in the administrative process described in Va. Code § 33.2 1101.
Create, maintain, and socialize lessons learned to facilitate policy/process changes that mitigate recurrence of claims.
Prepare comprehensive final reports and presentations: issue statements, analysis, alternatives, and recommendations.
Lead or participate in process improvement and change management projects.
Scope projects, define timelines, secure approvals/signatures, maintain action plans, and provide status updates per the project scope agreement.
Prepare executive level presentations and deliverables; ensure agreed due dates and service levels are met.
Perform tasks for special projects as directed by division management (e.g., policy updates, analytics, dashboards, technology enablement.
Establish and execute QA reviews and audits of investigation files for completeness, timeliness, legal defensibility, and adherence to policy/procedure.
Standardize investigation practices (templates, checklists, required exhibits) and ensure consistent field documentation (including photos, site notes, witness statements, and maintenance records).
Track and report investigation performance using KPIs (e.g., cycle time, rework rate, evidence sufficiency, FOIA readiness, settlement variances); recommend corrective actions and training.