Field Auto Claim Appraiser

IMT Insurance•Ottumwa, IA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

IMT Insurance is seeking an Auto Claim Appraiser to analyze and determine coverage and damages concerning auto losses and attempt to effect settlement with insureds and claimants in Southeast Iowa. This role involves delivering quality customer service, communicating with insureds and claimants to gather information, and completing thorough vehicle scopes. The appraiser will prepare itemized appraisals and total loss evaluations, negotiate with collision centers and other parties regarding repairs and settlements, and authorize payments based on coverage and damage. This position partners with assigned Claim Professionals to assist with claim investigation and documentation, ensuring appropriate coverage and liability before negotiations. Collaboration with Casualty Adjusters to determine liability and settlement of third-party claims is also a key function. The role requires independent judgment in managing claim files and may involve mentoring other team members.

Requirements

Ability to read, problem solve and pay close attention to details.
Ability to listen and communicate to the customer, both orally and in writing in a professional manner.
Ability to operate standard office computer system.
Meets physical requirements to properly ascertain claim damages. Includes, lifting, bending and viewing damage in field.
Maintain technical expertise and knowledge of current trends and techniques in the market.
Must maintain valid driver's license due to required fieldwork.
Must develop and maintain strong negotiation skills.
Must be a self-starter with the ability to organize and complete essential job functions on a daily basis.
Substantial travel with extended driving.
Must possess the ability to work well with others.
College education preferred or equivalent and 0-3 years of auto claims, auto body appraisal or insurance experience or related claims knowledge.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge and experience with automobile parts and repair techniques, terminology, and vehicle construction is preferred.
Appraisers with advanced experience will be considered at the Sr. Level.

Responsibilities

Deliver quality customer service throughout the life cycle of the claim with effective communication to all applicable parties.
Communicate with insureds and claimants to gather important information to support claim decisions.
Complete thorough and adequate vehicle scope utilizing technical expertise and company resources.
Prepare quality itemized appraisals and/or total loss evaluations using claims best practices and vehicle software systems to repair damaged vehicles (including ATV, Motorcycles, Campers/Trailers, and Watercraft) to their pre-damaged condition.
Negotiate with collision centers, Independent Adjusters, claimants and policyholders regarding auto physical damage repairs and/or total loss evaluation and settlements.
Negotiate, settle, authorize, and/or issue payments for auto physical damage based on coverage, verifiable damage, and appraisal.
Partner with the assigned Claim Professional throughout the life of the claim to assist with the investigation and documentation of the claim file.
Partner with the assigned Claim Professional who will be completing the liability portion of the claim to ensure appropriate coverage and liability prior to negotiations and settlement.
Communicate with Casualty Adjusters to determine liability and settlement of 3rd party claims.
Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within the claims field.
Primary job functions require exercising some independent judgment and management of claim file.
Mentor and assist other team members.