Field Appraiser

GAINSCO Inc., is a property and casualty insurance holding company. Through our insurance brand, GAINSCO Auto Insurance®, we concentrate our efforts on the non-standard personal automobile market, specializing in minimum-limits personal auto insurance. GAINSCO was established in 1978 as a Texas corporation and is based in Dallas, with a regional office in Miami. Our insurance operations are conducted through MGA Insurance Company Inc., a Texas corporation.

To complete accurate material damage estimates in a timely manner. To investigate, evaluate and settle claims, applying technical knowledge and human relations skills to effect fair and prompt disposal of claims. Additional responsibilities may include reviewing Independent Adjuster assignments and Desk Review estimates for remote areas.

**% of Time** **Results Expected and Duties Performed** **40%** * Ensures effective appraisal process by planning routes and traveling to sites in a timely manner, using standard guidelines to inspect vehicles, estimating parts and labor to repair damage, reviewing repair-cost estimates with repair shops to secure agreement on cost of repairs, preparing forms to indicate repair-cost estimates and recommendations, determining salvage value on total-loss vehicle, accurately documenting information, and communicating with Appraisal Unit and key personnel in the Claims Department. **40%** * Establishes proof of loss by collecting documentation submitted, also escalates questionable claims for additional investigation. Maintains quality service by contacting customers and scheduling appointments in a timely manner, inspecting vehicle within established time frame, providing accurate information on repair costs and estimated repair time, explaining the appraisal process, responding to inquiries, and sustaining good relationships with body repair shops as well as assisting in the resolution of all claims. **5%** * Will be responsible for assigning, reviewing and overseeing GAINSCO Independent Appraiser assignments as well as directing the quality of the assignments. Will also manage the rental portion of the Independent Appraiser assignment once/if the vehicle goes to the shop for repairs. **5%** * Promotes continuous improvement by keeping abreast of current vehicle repair techniques, and complying with continuing education requirements for licensing / certification. **10%** * Ensure legal compliance by following guidelines, company policies, and state and federal insurance regulations

* **Education:** Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience. ASE / ICAR Certification preferred. * **Experience:** Minimum 2-3 years experience as an auto damage appraiser. Previous Claims and/or Customer Service experience within an insurance environment is preferred. Body shop experience a plus. * **Skills and Abilities:** Excellent verbal and written communications skills. Ability to manage own time while prioritizing multiple tasks. Ability to remain calm when dealing with difficult customers. Effective negotiating skills. Ability to gather and analyze information in order to evaluate results and choose the best solution to the problem. * **Other:** Valid Appraiser or Adjuster License as necessary. Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. Valid driver’s license. * **Office Equipment and Software:** Computer, cell phone, printer, digital camera, calculator and fax. General computer skills: MS Outlook, MS Word, MS Excel, Internet. Knowledge of CCC Pathways, Image Right and Claims Manager. * **Decision Making:** Must follow established steps and procedures. May make some alterations when following established procedures. Select specific steps from established options. Develop options by which work can be accomplished. Set priorities and standards of performance. * **Interpersonal Communication:** Daily interaction with body shops, vehicle owners, insured’s, Claim Adjusters, Independent Appraisers and Appraisal Unit Staff. * **Confidential and Sensitive Information:** Social Security numbers, driver license numbers, phone numbers and vehicle information of parties involved. Body shop information. **Required behaviors for all positions:** * Communicate with co-workers, management customers, vendors, and others in a courteous and professional manner * Conform with and abide by all Company codes, regulations, policies, values, work procedures and instructions * Regular attendance * Established Tenure preferred