Litigation Claims Adjuster

Merchants Insurance Group is a leading Property and Casualty Insurer in the Northeast, rated A- (Excellent) with a stable outlook by A.M. Best. The company is consistently recognized as a top employer and high-performing organization, with recent honors including Best Places to Work in Western New York, Ward’s 50® top-performing property-casualty insurer, and recognition on Newsweek and Statista’s America’s Most Reliable Companies list.

About the role

This position is part of a dedicated team focusing on auto and premises liability claims, including New York Labor Law, construction defect, and/or third-party property damage claims. The role involves extensive interaction with internal colleagues, policyholders, agents, attorneys, and claim-related service providers.

Responsibilities

• Cultivate relationships with claims and other internal staff, policyholders, attorneys, agents, and a variety of service providers and experts while working toward optimal outcomes for Merchants and policyholders.
• Provide a high level of customer service while managing a portfolio of complex and high-exposure litigated claims involving liability and damage issues.
• Evaluate coverage by interpreting and applying policy language to claim facts and prepare timely coverage position letters.
• Conduct and direct timely and quality claim investigations, evaluations, and equitable settlements of assigned claims.
• Ensure timely and accurate reserves consistent with established reserving philosophy and practices.
• Negotiate fair and equitable settlements directly with attorneys.
• Identify risk transfer opportunities through trade contracts and/or applicable law.
• Oversee and manage defense counsel, select and retain appropriate experts, and develop resolution strategies.

Requirements

• 4-year degree or equivalent work-related experience.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience handling commercial lines claims.
• Experience with New York Labor Law, construction defect, and/or third-party property damage claims is a plus.
• Candidates with a JD and insurance defense experience are encouraged to apply.
• Exceptional organization, negotiation, verbal, and written communication skills.

Qualifications

• Professional designations or progress toward industry-specific designations are a plus.

Schedule

Hybrid work schedule requiring two full days per week in the office at the Buffalo, New York headquarters, with flexibility to work remotely or in-office for the remaining days.

Pay

Estimated salary range for this role is $80,000 - $105,000, based on leveling and geography, along with an equity component.

Benefits

• Welcoming and positive work environment.
• Colleague Appreciation events.
• Flexible work arrangements, including flex scheduling and summer hours.
• Hybrid work schedule (two days in-office, three days remote or in-office).
• Competitive pay scale and company bonus program.
• Generous paid time off package.
• Full benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short Term Disability.
• 401(k) employer match: 100% up to 6% of annual contributions (immediately 100% vested).
• Tuition Reimbursement.