Field Property Claims Representative I (De Smet)

Goodville Mutual Casualty Company; South Dakota; Remote; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading insurance company is seeking a Claims Adjuster responsible for investigating and settling claims, conducting property inspections, and providing exceptional service to clients. This role requires strong communication skills and the ability to work independently, with physical inspections being a key component. Candidates must possess a high school diploma and be proficient with insurance coverages and estimating platforms.

Qualifications

• Ability to learn insurance coverages and proficiency with company computer systems.
• Physical ability to perform inspections, including climbing ladders.
• Valid driver’s license and own vehicle required.

Responsibilities

• Investigate claims, take photos, measure property, and write estimates.
• Conduct physical inspections of property loss sites and evaluate claim information.
• Notify Property Claim Manager of claims exceeding $50,000.

Skills

Effective communication

Negotiation skills

Risk assessment

Knowledge of estimating platforms

Education

High school diploma

Job description

This position is responsible for investigation, inspection, and settlement of assigned losses. It also provides outside field property claims inspection services as directed by inside claims representatives, and adjusts and settles claims for all lines of business written by the company.

The role involves performing inspections of potential and existing policyholders’ properties to assist the Underwriting Department and agency partners in determining risk eligibility within company guidelines. The position requires identifying concerns, making recommendations to reduce loss frequency and severity, and training agents and policyholders in loss prevention measures.

Functions:

1. Handle claims according to company guidelines and comply with the Unfair Claims Practices Act.
2. Investigate claims, including taking photos, measuring damaged property, diagramming, and writing estimates, along with communication with insureds, claimants, and their legal representatives.
3. Verify policy coverage on assigned losses.
4. Pursue subrogation, salvage, and third-party liability contributions.
5. Conduct physical inspections of property loss sites.
6. Evaluate claim information to decide on payments or denials.
7. Notify Property Claim Manager of claims exceeding $50,000.
8. Maintain proper reserves on claims.
9. Report complaints, questionable claims, and possible fraud.
10. Attend seminars and insurance meetings; participate in claims associations.
11. Assist in arbitration, hearings, or court proceedings as needed.
12. Remain available for claims service outside normal hours if necessary.
13. Perform detailed property inspections, building valuations, and risk assessments.
14. Ensure thorough documentation, including photos, for inspections.
15. Complete inspections within 30 days, discussing delays with Underwriters if needed.
16. Perform agency book inspections upon request.
17. Inform underwriters of exposure concerns and recommend loss reduction measures.
18. Assist underwriters with research and additional information gathering.
19. Serve as a loss control resource for underwriters and agents.
20. Maintain knowledge through continuing education.
21. Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Requirements:

High school diploma required. Ability to learn insurance coverages, effective communication and negotiation skills, and proficiency with company computer systems are essential.

Must be able to work remotely and independently, with knowledge of estimating platforms preferred. Ability to communicate with contractors and engineers, and understand construction and farming practices, is necessary.

Physical ability to perform inspections, including climbing ladders and carrying materials up to 50 lbs., is required. A valid driver’s license and own vehicle are mandatory. Ability to operate a camera, work independently, and travel as needed is also required. Proficiency in computer skills and willingness to travel are essential. The role requires working in an office environment with moderate noise, moving throughout the office, and performing tasks with or without reasonable accommodations.