Appraiser (Auto Claims)

About the role

This position is an Appraiser role primarily traveling within Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, and surrounding areas. The Appraiser completes accurate, quality appraisals of damaged vehicles for all types of material damage claims, handling moderate complexity claims within assigned authority limits consistent with company policy and procedures. Responsibilities include supplemental appraisals, total loss opinions, and ARP (Direct Repair Facility) re-inspections, as well as providing coaching and feedback to ensure an outstanding customer experience for both internal and external customers.

Responsibilities

• Create accurate and detailed estimates, supplements, and total loss reports for 1st and 3rd party material damage claims using NYCM Appraiser Best Practices.
• Document all aspects of the appraisal process, adhering to best practices to ensure fair settlements, customer satisfaction, and cost management.
• Construct, track, and report monthly mileage and expense reports accurately.
• Investigate and evaluate damages on all types, makes, and models of vehicles for assigned claims.
• Review loss reports and photos received via CCC Quick Estimate from customers, Copart Auto Auctions, or third-party vendors.
• Complete re-inspections for ARP (Direct Repair Facility) claims to verify material damage accuracy.
• Provide coaching and feedback to ARP shops based on completed reviews.
• Use OEM and alternate parts in line with NYCM best practices.
• Maintain draft authority to issue field drafts or initiate electronic payments on qualifying claims.
• Negotiate repair costs with repair facilities to reach an agreed cost of repairs.
• Represent your estimate, valuation, or license in depositions or testimony when required.
• Distinguish the cause of damage for appropriate policy coverage.
• Adhere to all NYCM policies, guidelines, and state-mandated regulations to ensure compliance in QA reviews and file audits.
• Evaluate, determine ACV, and settle total losses when necessary, including disposal of salvage.
• Determine subrogation or fraud potential when it exists.
• Take pictures of damages, loss locations, and any claim-related items as needed.
• Maintain the assigned company vehicle as outlined in the NYCM/Stager Employee Handbook.
• Identify and report complex claims to your direct supervisor per NYCM Appraisal Best Practices.
• Develop a basic understanding of all types of policies written by the company and the insurance industry, including organizational relationships within the company.
• Complete continued education through company-required courses and additional outside courses.
• Make first contact with the customer to outline claim expectations and procedures.
• Contact the vehicle owner to review damages, explain the estimate process, and present/settle based on coverages afforded.
• Obtain permission and coordinate moving salvage on applicable claims.
• Partner with claims handlers, including alternative recovery sources (examiners, subrogation, SIU, etc.).
• Provide an outstanding customer experience by taking ownership of issues, problems, or errors that could impact the policyholder or loss participant.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent, with related experience.
• At least one year of experience as an Auto Damage Appraiser, utilizing electronic estimate writing software.
• NYS Independent Auto Damage and Theft license (mandatory); other state licenses preferred.
• NYS Driver’s License with an acceptable driving record and no restrictions.

Skills

• Working knowledge of automobile physical damage estimating and/or repair.
• Estimating experience with an automated estimating system, preferably CCC.
• General auto body repair knowledge, with the ability to recognize and identify all body parts of a vehicle.
• Working knowledge of total loss evaluation and salvage handling.
• Familiarity with I-CAR training and coursework.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills with the ability to multitask and work independently.
• Effective organization and time management skills, with the ability to work under pressure.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including listening and conflict resolution.
• High degree of initiative and mature judgment.
• Ability to interact positively and professionally with internal and external customers, agents, claimants, and others.
• Understanding of the claim process, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to interpret and apply written coverage accurately.
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to present information and respond to questions from management, legal counsel, and customers.
• Ability to obtain and maintain appropriate licenses and educational requirements.

Pay

Salary range: $62,353.20 - $89,583 (a location factor of 7.4% will be applied to the offer extended).

Schedule

Exempt position, 40 hours per week, hybrid with significant travel (on the road).

Benefits

• Company vehicle provided.
• All necessary equipment provided (laptop, phone, printer, etc.).