Job Overview
The Senior Claims Specialist is responsible for the investigation, administration, monitoring, reporting, and resolution of transportation-related claims involving vehicle damage, cargo damage, property damage, personal injury, and liability exposure. This position serves as a key resource within the Safety & Claims Department and supports the operational, insurance, compliance, customer service, and risk management functions of Quality Drive Away and Foremost Transport.
The Senior Claims Specialist works closely with drivers, customers, terminal managers, insurance carriers, repair facilities, attorneys, and company leadership to minimize financial exposure, improve claims outcomes, recover losses through subrogation, and identify opportunities to reduce future claims.
Key Responsibilities & Duties
Claims Administration
· Manage claims from initial notification through final resolution.
· Investigate transportation-related accidents, incidents, and damage claims.
· Gather and evaluate supporting documentation including photographs, repair estimates, police reports, driver statements, witness statements, and customer correspondence.
· Maintain accurate and complete electronic claim files.
· Establish claim reserves and assist management with exposure evaluations.
· Ensure timely reporting of claims to insurance carriers and third-party administrators.
· Monitor claim status and provide regular updates to stakeholders.
Investigation & Resolution
· Determine liability and identify contributing factors associated with claims.
· Coordinate investigations with drivers, customers, terminal managers, law enforcement agencies, insurance adjusters, and legal counsel.
· Review repair estimates and negotiate claim settlements when appropriate.
· Assist in dispute resolution involving customers and third parties.
· Support litigation management and legal discovery requests when necessary.
Claims Analysis & Reporting
· Track claim trends, accident frequency, severity, and loss ratios.
· Develop and maintain claims performance reports and key performance indicators.
· Identify recurring operational issues contributing to claims activity.
· Recommend corrective actions and process improvements.
· Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual claims summaries for management review.
Subrogation & Cost Recovery
· Identify and pursue subrogation opportunities.
· Coordinate recovery efforts with insurance carriers and third parties.
· Maintain recovery tracking and reporting systems.
· Maximize recovery of claim-related expenses and deductible reimbursements.
· Assist management in reducing overall claims and insurance costs.
Safety & Risk Management Support
· Partner with the Safety Department to identify accident trends and root causes.
· Support accident review committees and driver coaching initiatives.
· Provide recommendations regarding loss prevention and risk mitigation strategies.
· Assist with regulatory compliance efforts involving FMCSA requirements and transportation safety programs.
· Participate in safety meetings and educational initiatives.
Customer & Driver Relations
· Serve as a professional point of contact for claim-related inquiries.
· Communicate effectively with customers, drivers, insurance representatives, attorneys, and internal personnel.
· Maintain a high level of professionalism and customer service during difficult claim situations.
· Assist drivers in understanding claim procedures and accident reporting requirements.
Administrative & Systems Management
· Utilize transportation management systems, claims software, Microsoft Office, and related applications.
· Maintain organized electronic and physical claim records.
· Prepare reports, correspondence, presentations, and management summaries.
· Support special projects and departmental initiatives as assigned.
Academic or Trade Qualifications
· High School Diploma or GED required.
· Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Risk Management, Insurance, Transportation, Criminal Justice, or related field preferred.
· Continuing education in claims handling, transportation safety, insurance, or risk management is highly desirable.
Work Experience & Skills
Required Experience
· Minimum of 3-5 years of transportation claims, insurance claims, risk management, safety, or related industry experience.
· Experience investigating vehicle damage, cargo damage, liability, and accident claims.
· Experience working with insurance carriers, adjusters, and legal representatives.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
· Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
· Exceptional organizational and time-management skills.
· Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
· Ability to work independently with limited supervision.
· Strong customer service and conflict resolution skills.
· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Outlook, Excel, Word, and Teams.
· Ability to analyze claims data and develop actionable recommendations.
· Understanding of FMCSA regulations and transportation industry operations.
· Professional judgment and decision-making abilities.
Performance Expectations
Performance will be evaluated based upon:
· Claim cycle time and resolution efficiency.
· Accuracy and completeness of claim documentation.
· Customer service responsiveness and professionalism.
· Reduction in claim frequency and severity.
· Recovery and subrogation performance.
· Claims cost management.
· Compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
· Contribution to safety and loss prevention initiatives.
· Teamwork and collaboration across departments.
Physical Ability
· Sit and/or stand for periods exceeding two hours.
· Frequent computer and keyboard use.
· Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
· Ability to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and electronically.
Pay: $55,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Prescription drug insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person