Claims Adjuster II, Field Property - National Catastrophe - Western US ($5000 Sign-on Bonus)

Nationwide Insurance; Washington (District of Columbia); Remote; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading insurance provider is seeking a Property Claims Adjuster to manage claims in response to catastrophic events. This role demands extensive travel and the ability to handle emotionally charged conversations with customers. Candidates should possess strong communication skills and a background in property claims. This is a field-based position that requires work in high-pressure environments to assist in disaster recovery.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off (minimum 18 days annually)

Retirement plans

Qualifications

• Three to five years of property claims experience or related experience.
• Customer service background with flexible hours.
• Commercial claims property experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Handle assigned claims promptly and effectively.
• Determine policy coverages and apply claims practices.
• Collaborate with Special Investigations Unit for fraud.
• Deliver outstanding customer service.

Skills

Property estimating

Strong communication skills

Emotional resilience

Investigation skills

Customer service orientation

Education

Undergraduate degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Automated claims systems

Job description

Overview

If you’re passionate about helping people protect what matters most to them, as well as innovating and simplifying processes and operations to provide the best customer value, then Nationwide’s Property and Casualty team could be the place for you! Our customers are at the center of everything we do and we’re looking for associates who are passionate about delivering extraordinary care. This is a field-based role on the National Catastrophe Response Team.

Job Description Summary

This position is responsible for managing property claims in response to catastrophic events across the country. As a field-based adjuster, you will be deployed to areas impacted by large-scale disasters—such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, or other major events—to assess damages, support policyholders, and help communities begin the recovery process. The role requires extensive travel (up to 80%), often on short notice, and the ability to work in high-pressure, fast-paced environments for extended periods.

You will regularly engage in direct, and at times emotionally charged conversations with customers—clearly explaining coverage decisions, setting expectations, and delivering difficult news with empathy and professionalism. The ability to remain composed and compassionate in the face of loss, frustration, or uncertainty is essential. Strong communication skills and emotional resilience are critical as you’ll be guiding customers through challenging moments of their lives.

In this role, you’ll conduct on-site inspections, evaluate property damages, determine policy coverage, and make timely, accurate decisions using a variety of tools and resources, including vendor estimates, independent adjusters, and self-written assessments. You’ll also be responsible for full file ownership, maintaining appropriate reserves, managing claim activity (including supplements and requests for depreciation), ensuring compliance with internal standards and regulatory requirements, and providing proactive communication with external customers throughout each stage of the claim. Collaboration with internal teams such as Special Investigations and Subrogation may be required to identify fraud or recovery opportunities. Staying current on industry repair practices, regional pricing trends, and legal developments is key to success. This is a demanding, customer-facing role that requires a blend of technical expertise, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. Candidates should be comfortable working independently in disaster zones, managing a high volume of claims, working long hours, and adapting quickly to evolving priorities.

Responsibilities

• Handle assigned claims promptly and effectively with minimal direction; make decisions within delegated authority.
• Determine policy coverages and apply appropriate claims practices to resolve cases in line with company guidelines.
• Open, close, and adjust reserves; adhere to file conferencing notification and authority procedures.
• Maintain knowledge of insurance products, guidelines, and regulatory changes; attend seminars and training as needed.
• Stay informed about local industry repair procedures and pricing.
• Submit severe incident reports and other information to claims management as needed.
• Collaborate with Special Investigations Unit and Subrogation to identify fraud and subrogation opportunities; assist or prepare files for litigation or subrogation.
• Initiate and conduct follow-ups using claims systems and related tools.
• Deliver outstanding customer service to internal and external customers; maintain professional conduct and service standards.

May perform other responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Education: Undergraduate degree or equivalent experience.

License/Certification/Designation: State licensing where required; completion of applicable claims certification training/classes.

Experience: Three to five years of property claims experience or related experience; customer service background with flexible hours; commercial claims property experience preferred.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills: Knowledge of insurance theory and practices; property estimating and automated claims systems; ability to investigate, consult, and settle extensive property damage claims; strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to lead less experienced claims associates; ability to safely access and inspect rooftops; capability to conduct physical inspections on rooftops up to 8/12 pitch.

Other criteria, including leadership competencies and experiences, may take precedence. Staffing exceptions require approval by the business unit executive and HR.

Job Conditions

Overtime Eligibility: Not Eligible (Exempt)

Working Conditions: Normal office or field claims environment. May require long periods of sitting and operating a phone/computer; ability to inspect properties, climb ladders, work outdoors in various weather, and travel with possible overnight stays. On-call and catastrophe (CAT) work may be required. Valid driver’s license with satisfactory driving record required.

ADA: Principles described are intended to cover principal duties; variations may occur based on circumstances.

Credit/Background Check: A valid credit check and/or background check may be required as part of the selection process.

Benefits and Other Information

We offer a range of benefits including medical/dental/vision, life insurance, disability coverage, paid time off (minimum 18 days per year pro-rated), nine holidays, retirement plans, and more. Details are subject to eligibility and plan terms. This posting may close earlier if a strong candidate slate is identified.

Nationwide is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture. Nationwide prohibits discrimination and harassment and provides equal employment opportunities regardless of protected characteristics.

Notes to Employment Agencies: Nationwide does not accept unsolicited resumes from employment agencies without a signed engagement agreement. No fees will be paid if a candidate is hired through other means.

Posting Information: We anticipate accepting applications until 10/16/2025, but encourage early submissions.