Restoration Estimator - Large Loss

About the role

This position is primarily responsible for estimating, negotiating loss, and settling insurance jobs valued at $50,000-$1 million+ by performing the following duties. This person manages deadlines, progress, and quality on multiple projects simultaneously. You will work directly for the Branch Manager.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Visit new assignments and job sites, interface with the client, and estimate jobs
• Scope damages onsite, document the full scope of repairs, and create the estimate in the estimating database
• Interface with clients and insurance adjusters throughout the estimating phase
• Prepare the written estimate using the estimating software selected by the insurance carrier (Xactimate or Symbility), or Merit's default software, Xactimate, if the job is not insurance related
• Submit the estimate to the insurance company for approval and handle full negotiation through to approval by the carrier or client
• Prepare the construction contract
• Schedule and execute the pre-construction meeting with the client and Project Manager
• Assist the Project Management team in producing change orders and supplements
• Build and develop relationships with adjusters and insurance carriers
• Manage day-to-day client interaction
• Set and manage client expectations
• Communicate effectively with clients to identify needs and evaluate solutions
• Resolve or escalate issues in a timely fashion
• Communicate difficult or sensitive information tactfully
• Seek alliances to improve performance

Requirements

• Three years of insurance restoration experience preferred; commercial experience is a plus
• In-depth understanding of the company and its position in the industry
• Experience in construction, painting, and other related restoration services is a plus but not required
• Knowledgeable in reading and interpreting plans and specifications
• Good subcontractor bid solicitation skills
• Working knowledge of various computer programs, including Xactimate (preferred but not required); proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel)
• Able to work at the company office in Purcellville, VA

Qualifications

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the confidence to speak candidly and report back clearly on outcomes
• Able to make professional decisions in a fast-paced environment and own the results
• Self-motivated and self-directed, with the ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage time effectively
• Demonstrates accuracy, thoroughness, and strong productivity in all work
• Adapts well to change and manages competing demands, delays, and unexpected events
• Dependable and reliable — follows instructions, takes responsibility for own actions, keeps commitments, and maintains strong attendance and punctuality
• Shows initiative — volunteers readily, seeks increased responsibility, and takes independent action
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Manages difficult or emotional customer situations with professionalism and care

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Health, Vision, Dental, Life Insurance
• Unlimited PTO
• Company Phone / Computer