Claims Specialist II - MCU

About the role

A Claims Specialist II investigates, evaluates, negotiates, and settles moderate to high-complexity claims within Commercial Lines (CD, E&S). This role requires extensive claims-handling experience, strong technical and soft skills, high emotional intelligence, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently while fostering a positive team environment.

Responsibilities

• Primary (Specialty) Files:
  • Conduct investigations and determine if pre-litigation resolution is appropriate.
  • Vet and retain defense counsel; collaborate on case strategy and document the litigation plan and budget.
  • Actively manage the claim file and defense counsel to execute the agreed plan, proactively driving resolution.
  • Document all file activity through detailed notes and prepare reports following claims best practices.
  • Evaluate damages, recommend reserves per timeliness and accuracy guidelines, and develop negotiation strategies.
  • Identify subrogation potential, posture claims for recovery, and draft tender letters to place all potential parties on notice.
  • Work with defense counsel to vet, select, and retain experts as needed; apply expense management initiatives.
  • Notify the insured of key developments and demands; communicate with agency and underwriting regarding exposure shifts.
  • Review and negotiate fee statements in accordance with UFG billing guidelines.
• Excess Files:
  • Investigate coverage, determine limits and attachment points, and draft coverage position letters.
  • Evaluate jurisdiction-specific coverage priority rules.
  • Determine if monitoring or coverage counsel is necessary and escalate requests to a supervisor.
  • Monitor underlying carriers’ handling, participate in strategy sessions, and ensure inclusion in defense counsel reports.
  • Inform underwriting of increased hazards or unusual risk exposures.
• Participate in company-sponsored educational programs and claims committees to drive initiatives.

Requirements

• High school diploma (college degree preferred).
• Meet state licensing requirements for claims handling.
• 6+ years of Property/Casualty claims handling experience.
• CPCU, AIC, SCLA, or AEI series certifications (e.g., Legal Principles, CCLA, PCLA) preferred or to be completed within 2 years of hire.

Skills

• Ability to determine coverage, risk transfer, liability, and bodily injury evaluation for reserves and settlement.
• Moderate knowledge of claims handling best practices and unfair claims practices/bad faith.
• Working knowledge of various policy coverages, applicable laws, regulations, and venue-specific procedures.
• Knowledge of fraud indicators and civil procedure.
• Strong communication, attention to detail, and multitasking abilities.

Schedule

General office environment with occasional travel required.

Pay

The base salary range for this position is $85,000 – $100,000 annually. Individual pay is determined based on relevant experience, education, certifications, skills, internal equity, geography, and market data.

Benefits

• Annual incentive compensation.
• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Accident, critical illness, and short-term disability insurance.
• Retirement plans with employer contributions.
• Generous time-off program.
• Programs supporting employee well-being and financial security.