Physical Damage Appraiser I - Kentucky Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company

Prepares auto repair estimates, which accurately reflect the reasonable dollar cost of the damage sustained.  This is to be accomplished in a prompt, courteous and fair manner.  This activity should be carried out in a professional manner consistent with company policy and supervisory instruction.

Maintain quality appraisal process in accordance with Best Practices, industry procedures and any state requirements or mandates.

Prepare damage appraisals that reflect damages incurred using proper repair methods, new, like-kind-quality, after-market, or competitive parts, as appropriate.

Compare damages and cost effectiveness of repair versus replacement decisions.

Evaluate damages as to relatedness to the incident/claim.

Re-inspect vehicles for supplemental repairs when applicable.

Maintain drive-in claim facilities for inspection of damaged vehicles on an appointment basis.

Negotiate with repair shops when necessary.  Locate used parts and negotiate with salvage dealers when applicable.

Establish and maintain quality relationships with repair shops, vendors and Kentucky Farm Bureau and agency personnel.

Identify potential fraud and subrogation possibilities; refer as appropriate.

Submit monthly report to District Claim Manager and Physical Damage Manager.

Maintain estimating equipment and software.

Maintain current knowledge of auto repair techniques, labor rates, parts prices, and industry trends.

Serve as a catastrophe team member or assist in other claim offices or locations as required.

Regular, predictable attendance as employee has to physically be in the office.

This list of essential functions is non-exhaustive and may be supplemented as necessary.

Other Responsibilities 

Advise appropriate claim representative of poor risks that should be referred to underwriting.

Promptly respond to complaints.

Assist and give guidance to claim representative when requested.

Submit timely and accurate expense reports to District Claim Manager

Attend and participate in company claim meetings, seminars, and continuing education activities.

Follow company guidelines related to maintenance and personal use of company vehicles

Job Specifications

Physical demands: Normal vision (with or without correction); Mobility; Speaking; Driving; Sitting; Kneeling.

Mental demands: Prolonged concentration; High volume under time pressure.

Environmental factors: Working outdoors; Extreme cold, below 32 degrees for more than 1 hour; Standard office lighting, temperature, and noise.

Equipment: Automobile; Laptop Computer; Portable printer; Calculator; Camera; Cell phone; Inverter; Jump box.

High school diploma or GED.

Experience in preparing auto repair estimates either in a body shop or insurance company environment.

Ability to make mathematical computations.

Basic keyboarding skill required.

Good negotiation and public relations skills.

Valid driver’s license and good driving record.