What are the responsibilities and job description for the Surety Claims Specialist position at Avalon Risk Management?
Surety Claims Specialist
Avalon Risk Management (“Avalon”) is a specialty insurance broker with offices throughout the U.S. and Canada. We focus on the unique and exciting world of risk management and insurance products for the international trade and logistics industry. Avalon is a privately held company owned by our founding management team. We are looking for a Surety Claims Specialist to join our Bond Claims department. This full-time exempt position will work from our headquarters in Schaumburg, Illinois. After an introductory training period, new hires are eligible for a hybrid in-office and work from home environment.
We are looking for a team player who has an eye for detail, excellent analytical abilities, and is highly organized. Successful candidates must be able to appropriately handle high volume of claims files with proper prioritization and follow up. Having excellent written and verbal communication skills are a must. We are seeking candidates with a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in a professional customer service role within the importation industry or related fields such as contracts, finance, or billing support. Prior experience in direct insurance support, particularly with a focus on logistics, is a plus. Preference will be given to candidates who already hold an IL Adjuster license. Strong follow-up skills are essential, along with the ability to consistently meet deadlines. Candidates should have professional interpersonal skills and be willing to be firm with insureds. Strong computer skills are required, especially with MS Word and Excel.
Surety Claims Specialists support our claims team with reporting and filing needs. They also work with importers/principals to resolve issues related to Customs and miscellaneous bonds, which may involve asking for payment on the claim. Our professionals must be able to confidently work in an ever-changing environment. They must be comfortable with change and able to stay on top of new developments. Essential functions of this role include but are not limited to:
Surety Claims Specialists support our claims team with reporting and filing needs. They also work with importers/principals to resolve issues related to Customs and miscellaneous bonds, which may involve asking for payment on the claim. Our professionals must be able to confidently work in an ever-changing environment. They must be comfortable with change and able to stay on top of new developments. Essential functions of this role include but are not limited to:
- Evaluate Bond Programs (i.e. TIA) claims issued to our surety/trust companies through investigation, data gathering, researching regulations, etc.
- Handle your claims with our established guidelines for each Surety/Trust- acknowledging claims, notifying client, recording claims data within appropriate systems and issuing payments when necessary.
- Communicate with claimants, trustors/principals, and Customs & Border Protection regarding claim files.
- Internet searches for current addresses for importers with returned mail.
- Faxing/emailing/calling Customs for status updates and to request case copies.
- Assist with answering calls on claims line and provide claim forms to claimants via email or fax.
- Draft claim denials to claimants based on claim research.
- Handle CBP claims and in particular late files and recons to ensure timely resolution.
- File petitions with CBP on claims when necessary.
- Maintain currency with regulations, laws, tariff mandates, etc. in order to function in a high-change environment.
- Other duties as assigned
A Claims Adjuster license will be required for this position within the first 180 days of employment. Avalon will help obtain this license upon hire and we bear the associated expenses.
Avalon is a premier provider of innovative insurance and surety solutions. This is a full-time, exempt position with a starting base compensation range of $45,000 - $48,000 per year. We offer an excellent benefits package that includes health, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, student debt assistance, and more. Avalon is an equal opportunity employer that has been voted locally as Best Places to Work in IL and nationally as Best Places to Work in Insurance creating a best in class culture for employees. Apply today via our quick application process!
Salary : $45,000 - $48,000
