Auto Damage Claims Specialist

Location: Van Wert, OHWork Model: Hybrid Position type: Full time - salary     We’re a team of employees passionate about delivering best-in-class customer service and driving innovation in claims management. Integrity, relationships, and excellence are at the heart of everything we do. Our employees fully utilize their talents and bring their best selves to work. We believe who you are is just as important as what you do! Make a Difference When Customers Need Us Most At Central Insurance, we believe claims handling is more than resolving losses - it's about delivering peace of mind during challenging moments. Our Auto Damage Claims team combines technical expertise, innovation, and exceptional service to help customers navigate the unexpected with confidence. As an Auto Damage Claims Specialist, you'll play a critical role in investigating claims, solving complex problems, building strong relationships with policyholders and agents, and driving optimal outcomes that support both our customers and our company. If you're passionate about customer service, analytical thinking, and making a meaningful impact every day, we invite you to join our team.   Key Responsibilities of the Role   Manages assigned Claims with hospitality, optimal claim outcomes, and efficiency throughout the life of the claim z Investigates, evaluates, negotiates and settles assigned claims within authority limits Assesses vehicle damages, including negotiates total loss settlements and working collaboratively with salvage team Provides proactive hospitality by appropriately setting expectations, building rapport, and responding to requests timely  Builds relationships and appropriately communicates with agency partners and internal stakeholders Understands all applicable coverage forms; provides thorough and timely coverage analysis and communication  Detects and mitigates fraud when investigating claim  Conducts thorough and proactive claim investigations including utilization of ISO   Executes on coverage documentation, use of Reservation of Rights, Non-Waivers, and coverage letters   Completes liability determination and analysis Sets accurate initial reserve in a timely manner and continually reviews in the context of ultimate probable exposure Obtains, analyzes and evaluates damage documentation, implements appropriate control of rental/loss of use, and mitigates advanced charges.   Maintains appropriate Loss Adjustment expense control and utilizes approved suppliers Implements proper recognition, investigation, referral and communication regarding subrogation   Reviews estimates  Assists team development with subject matter expertise learning, onboarding assistance, and assists supervisor when needed Completes training as needed    Required Qualifications   Ability to obtain and maintain all required state department of insurance adjusting licenses and CE’s within 90 days of employment Bachelor’s degree and 1 year of related experience Or Associates degree and 2 years of related experience Or 3 years of related experience Travel as needed  Preferred Qualifications   AINS or AIC designation(s) Claims experience in both Personal Lines and Commercial Lines   Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities   Ability to professionally interact with our customers Ability to investigate, gather facts and information, and analyze coverage Understand the importance of capturing data Possess an innovative and continuous improvement mindset Possess a positive, professional, cooperative, and quality-conscious service attitude Ability to work under pressure, deal with interpersonal conflict, and handle a heavy workload Possesses analytical and problem-solving skills Possesses verbal and written communication skills, including negotiation, presentation, and influence skills Ability to understand Central Insurance’s policies and processes Completes our AMD Claims Training Program Possesses a change champion mindset to help facilitate the adoption of new tools and processes Achieves optimal claims outcomes  Complies with state regulatory/statutory requirements, corporate privacy and other claim policy requirements Understands and utilizes various resources including technology and tools   Ability to reach key performance metrics        Total Rewards Central establishes base pay based on several factors including labor market data and an evaluation of candidate qualifications relative to role requirements. Base pay is one component of a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support employees’ financial, health, career, and retirement objectives. Central provides extensive health and wellness benefits to promote flexibility, work-life balance, and long-term financial security. For more information, see Central Insurance Benefits