Auto Claims Appraiser (Remote within LA / Santa Monica / Van Nuys

About the position

The Auto Claims Appraiser at Wawanesa Insurance plays a crucial role in delivering exceptional claims service by inspecting and estimating automobile physical damage claims. This position requires daily travel within the Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Van Nuys areas, and the appraiser will be responsible for evaluating damage, writing appraisal estimates, and ensuring accurate and complete assessments. The appraiser will utilize estimating software to perform their duties and will communicate with various stakeholders, including insureds, auto body shops, contractors, and adjusters, to negotiate total losses and maintain business relationships with independent repair contractors. In addition to the core responsibilities of inspecting and appraising vehicles, the Auto Claims Appraiser will assist adjusting personnel by providing expert advice on auto damage losses and resolving issues related to estimates. The role also involves managing inspection appointments efficiently, performing re-inspections as needed, and maintaining accurate records in accordance with company standards. The appraiser will be expected to stay updated on legislative changes, industry trends, and developments in vehicle repair procedures to ensure the highest level of service. Wawanesa Insurance, a subsidiary of the Auto Club of Southern California (AAA), offers a flexible work environment where employees can choose to work remotely, in the office, or in a hybrid model. The company values performance excellence and encourages team collaboration, requiring employees to be visible during meetings and training sessions. This position is ideal for dedicated and enthusiastic individuals looking for diverse experiences and career development opportunities within a growing organization.

Responsibilities
? Inspect, evaluate and write appraisal estimates pertaining to the physical damage of automobiles using estimating software
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? Communicate with insureds, auto body shops, contractors and adjusters as required to ensure accurate and complete estimates
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? Negotiate automobile total losses
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? Establish and maintain business relationship with independent repair contractors/vendor
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? Assist adjusting personnel when necessary by providing expert advice on auto damage losses
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? Assist in resolving issues that arise in regards to estimates
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? Manage timely and efficient inspection appointments at various locations
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? Perform re-inspections as assigned
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? Maintain accurate records based on company standards and policies within the claims system
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? Supplement the National Catastrophe Team as required for Corporate Catastrophe Response in any region
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? Remain up-to-date with legislative changes, trends in the insurance industry, estimating practices and developments in vehicle repair procedures and materials
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? Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements
? 3+ years auto appraising experience
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? Comprehensive knowledge of automobile repair procedures
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? Strong knowledge and ability to use Mitchell Estimating Software
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? Physically able to drive long distances
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? Effective communication skills both oral and written
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? Ability to work in a fast paced, changing environment
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? Strong negotiation skills
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? Position requires the ability to lift up to 15 lbs. on a daily basis
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? Position requires medium mobility at appraisal locations to include frequent bending and crouching to ground level, inside tight spaces, climbing ladders and periods of upward viewing and stretching to perform comprehensive estimates with photographs
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? A valid driver license is required, along with maintaining a clean driving record
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? Position requires frequent extended periods of sitting behind the wheel of a company vehicle

Nice-to-haves

Benefits
? Medical, Dental and Vision
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? Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
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? Voluntary benefit plans - accident, hospital indemnity and critical illness
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? Supplemental short and long-term disability benefits
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? Life insurance
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? Enhanced 401K plan
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? Paid time off (PTO) accrued at 0.0693 hours/per hour worked to a maximum annual accrual of 18 days (135 hours)
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? Annual bonus plan entitled 'Goal Achievement Plan' (GAP)
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? Tuition Assistance and much more

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