Claims Investigator - Motor & Accident Recovery

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary incentives

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Training opportunities

Field/Office duties

Work-life balance

Professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a major player in the South African insurance market to recruit a diligent Claims Investigator for the Welkom team in the Free State. The role centers on investigating motor and accident claims to determine validity, uncover fraud, and collect essential evidence.

You will interview claimants and witnesses, examine police reports and repair estimates, and collaborate with claims handlers, legal teams, and external parties such as police services and repair shops.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in claims investigation, motor/accident domain preferred
• Strong interviewing and documentation skills
• Knowledge of evidence gathering and police report analysis
• Ability to work independently with high integrity

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough investigations into motor and accident claims to determine facts and potential fraud.
• Gather evidence including scene examinations, vehicle inspections, photos, and witness statements.
• Interview claimants, witnesses, and relevant parties professionally.
• Analyze police reports, repair estimates and related documents.
• Identify discrepancies and indicators of fraud; prepare detailed reports with findings.
• Liaise with internal claims teams, legal, police and external service providers.
• Maintain organized records and adhere to ethics and company policies.

Skills

Interviewing

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Integrity

Evidence gathering

Education

Investigative techniques / Criminal justice certification

Tools

Investigation tools

Digital photography

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the South African insurance market, is seeking a diligent and detail-oriented Claims Investigator to join their team in Welkom, Free State. This role is crucial for investigating the circumstances surrounding motor and accident-related insurance claims to determine validity, detect potential fraud, and gather necessary evidence. The ideal candidate will possess excellent observational skills, a methodical approach to investigation, and the ability to conduct interviews effectively. You will work closely with the claims adjusting team and, at times, collaborate with law enforcement agencies. This position offers a great opportunity to contribute to fraud prevention and ensure fair claims handling for our policyholders in the Free State region.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough investigations into motor vehicle and accident insurance claims to ascertain facts and circumstances.
• Gather evidence, including accident scene examinations, vehicle inspections, photographic documentation, and witness statements.
• Interview claimants, witnesses, and other relevant parties in a professional and objective manner.
• Analyze police reports, repair estimates, and other relevant documentation.
• Identify discrepancies, inconsistencies, and potential indicators of fraud.
• Prepare comprehensive and detailed investigation reports with clear findings and recommendations.
• Liaise with internal claims handlers, legal teams, and external parties such as police services and repair shops.
• Maintain accurate and organized records of all investigative activities and findings.
• Adhere to ethical standards and company policies throughout all investigative processes.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification or certification in investigative techniques, criminal justice, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in claims investigation, particularly within the motor and accident insurance domain.
• Strong understanding of accident reconstruction principles and evidence gathering techniques.
• Excellent interviewing and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and elicit information.
• High level of integrity, discretion, and a keen eye for detail.
• Proficiency in using investigation tools and technology, including digital photography.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and prioritize tasks.
• Valid driver's license and a reliable vehicle are essential for fieldwork.
• Knowledge of relevant South African traffic laws and insurance regulations.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary package and performance-based incentives.
• Employees are eligible for comprehensive medical aid and a contribution towards a retirement fund.
• Opportunities for ongoing training in advanced investigative techniques and fraud detection are provided.
• This role offers a dynamic work environment with a blend of field and office-based duties in Welkom.
• We support a healthy work-life balance and encourage professional growth within our established organization.