Inside Material Damage Specialist II

Encova Insurance; Illinois; On-site; USD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Material Damage Appraiser to join their dynamic team. In this role, you will review and write appraisals for vehicle damage claims, ensuring compliance with company policies while negotiating settlements. Your expertise in vehicle repair techniques and estimating methods will be essential in guiding other appraisers and specialists. If you have a passion for the automotive industry and a proven track record in claims handling, this is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking organization that values leadership and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Minimum three years’ experience as a material damage appraiser or equivalent.
• Proficiency in negotiating and settling vehicle damage claims.

Responsibilities

• Review and write vehicle damage appraisals and claims.
• Negotiate, settle, and manage total loss claims.

Skills

Negotiation Skills

Claims Handling

Vehicle Repair Knowledge

Estimating Software Proficiency

Education

High School Diploma

Additional Education in Heavy Trucks or Specialty Equipment

Tools

Estimating Software

Job description

Job Responsibilities

1. Review vehicle damage claims, write appraisals, and review appraisals from various sources including body shops, preferred programs, smart phone apps, independent appraisers, and company appraisers.
2. Handle automobile material damage claims in compliance with Encova Claims department policies, including contact, communication, cycle time, coverage verification, evaluation/negotiation, and resolution of the file.
3. Negotiate, settle, and pay vehicle damage and total loss claims.
4. Provide advice and recommendations to other material damage appraisers and claims resolution specialists regarding the material damage aspect of a claim.
5. Manage salvage disposal for vehicles considered total losses.
6. Oversee title procurement for vehicles/equipment considered total losses.
7. May be required to testify in lawsuits involving vehicle damage.
8. Review and write estimates, ensuring productivity, turnaround, and quality standards are met.
9. Assist in catastrophe claims handling across the company's operating territory.
10. Participate as a member of claims and other integrated company teams as assigned.
11. Model leadership behaviors outlined in the company's Vision.

Other Functions

• Stay updated on changes and advances in vehicle repair and estimating methods.
• Overnight travel or extended stays may be required upon request.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Minimum of three years’ experience as a material damage appraiser or equivalent in the industry.
• Proven ability to negotiate, settle, and pay vehicle damage and total loss claims.
• Demonstrate skills and abilities as outlined in the Material Damage Specialist I job description.
• Internal candidates must have at least a “Meets Expectations” rating in their last performance review.
• Proficiency in computer software used for estimating and valuing total losses.
• Additional education or experience with heavy trucks or specialty equipment (boats, campers, motorcycles) is preferred.
• Exceptional knowledge of vehicle repair techniques and methods.
• Must pass the claims adjuster license exam(s) for applicable states as required by management.