Claims Examiners, Insurance
Description OES Code: 21921
Review settled insurance claims to determine that payments and settlements have been made in accordance with company practices and procedures, insuring that adjusters have followed proper methods. Report overpayments, underpayments, and other irregularities. Confer with legal counsel on claims requiring litigation.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $15.25
25th Percentile $17.06
50th Percentile $22.65
75th Percentile $29.71

Wages, San Joaquin
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $14.14
25th Percentile $16.59
50th Percentile $23.35
75th Percentile $29.18

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
A normal work week is 37-40 hours, Monday through Friday, with overtime once in a while. Field Adjusters set their own schedules. They often work nights or weekends to talk to witnesses or claimants.

Fringe benefits may include paid vacations, holidays and sick leave, profit- sharing, bonuses, commissions, group life and health insurance, pension plans and paid education. Field Adjusters get an expense account and use of a company car or mileage.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 6,600
Projected Employment 2008 7,900
Percent Change 1998-2008 19.7%
Separations 1998-2008 1,200

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 290
Projected Employment 2006 330
Percent Change 1999-2006 13.8%
Separations 1999-2006 40

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Claims Examiners work in the company headquarters, usually located in a big city. Claims Adjusters most often work in smaller branch offices. Most offices are modern, well-lit and equipped with the latest office machines and computers. Field Adjusters are out of the office a lot and may get less direct supervision. A lot of driving is required, but there's very little over-night travel. Report writing is a big part of the job, and Field Adjusters can spend up to two days a week in the office working on reports.

Advancement
Insurance Adjusters, Examiners and Investigators with several years of experience may get to manager jobs. Experienced Adjusters sometimes establish themselves as independent Adjusters who contract with insurance companies to settle claims for them. Others become public Adjusters who represent the claimant. Both must be licensed by the State of California, Department of Insurance.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Many companies recruit on college campuses. The California Employment Development Department Job Service, employment agencies, classified ads and personal contacts may provide referrals or leads. Applying directly to employers is also recommended. Trainee openings are usually posted in insurance company offices. Anyone qualified may apply.

For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Many employers require a bachelor's degree for this job. Some do not ask for a degree, but they do prefer those who have degrees in business administration or liberal arts. Some employers will hire someone as a clerical and after two or three years of work related to claims, will let them transfer to the job of Insurance Claims Representative trainee. They expect the trainee to have very good clerical skills and knowledge of medical terms, data processing, and good communication skills. Paralegal, investigative, or business experience and knowledge of car repair or construction are also helpful. A driver's license and a good driving record are required for Field Adjusters.

Skills & Other Requirements
Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators must be analytical but able to deal with people in stressful situations. Good communication skills, sharp observation, careful attention to details, and good judgment are a must. Field work requires walking, climbing stairs, and working outdoors (sometimes in bad weather) for long hours.

References
California Occupational Guide #67

Related Occupations: Actuaries, Insurance Sales Agents

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)