Claims Specialist

**Requisition ID**:40831

**Organization**

Located on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Peoples, Vancouver has a commitment to becoming a City of Reconciliation. Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable cities and is working towards being the greenest city in the world. Named among Canada's Top 100 Employers, BC's Top Employers, and Canada's Greenest Employers, the City of Vancouver seeks colleagues who can help shape and embody our core commitments to sustainability, reconciliation, equity and outstanding quality of life for all residents.

Consider joining our committed team of staff and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

**Main Purpose and Function**

This is specialized investigative and analysis work in the management of third party liability claims against the City. An incumbent independently investigates claims, garnering adequate evidence to evaluate legal liability; based on the determination of liability, in whole or in part, negotiates and settles claims within approved specified limits. An incumbent also acts in an advisory capacity to departments by making recommendations on risk reduction where issues of risk exposure are disclosed during investigations or identifies areas of significant concern to a superior to ensure appropriate remedial action.

**Specific Duties and Responsibilities**
Carries out detailed investigations and evaluations on third party liability claims initiated against the City to ensure the preservation of critical evidence, and compiles detailed claims information sufficient to facilitate a determination on legal liability to enable the defense of the City’s position in court. This may include but is not limited to:

- Detailed scene attendance with photos, scale diagrams, witness statements, measurements, etc
- Reviews Notice of Claim to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Vancouver Charter and other enactments (i.e. the Limitation Act)
- Researches and evaluates historical City records related to the claim; identifies and interviews internal and external sources and technical experts as required; reviews applicable legislation, legal precedent, contract or agreements to assess legal liability
- Conducts analysis on information gathered to determine next steps in investigation process and final conclusion on legal liability
- Evaluates quantum of damages (bodily injury and property damage); views and assesses physical loss; reviews repair bills and/or estimates; reviews medical records and specialist reports to ensure that damages claimed are consistent with the nature and circumstances of the claim
- Investigates major incidents involving City work crews or City property where there may be a potential for a claim against the City
- Where appropriate, negotiates settlement with the claimant or their appointed representative (i.e. lawyer, insurance representative) and facilitates proper execution of appropriate documentation to absolve the City from legal liability in conjunction with claims settlement
- Acts as a witness on the City’s behalf regarding legal action on claims handled and assists Legal Counsel in preparing evidence on investigation work or by carrying out additional work requested and necessary for the preparation of a legal defence to the action
- Maintains detailed, current and accurate records on all claims in the Claims Management System
- Prepares original correspondence of a complex nature and detailed investigation or other reports as required
- Other duties/responsibilities as assigned

**Minimum Qualifications**
Education and Experience:

- Minimum Grade 12 completion supplemented by completion of a substantive number of courses leading to achievement of the C.I.P. (Chartered Insurance Professional) designation or equivalent, courses leading to or completion of the CRM (Canadian Risk Management) preferred, including courses in claims investigation and adjusting supplemented by considerable practical experience in claims handling; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Carrying out detailed scene attendances, including photos, scale diagrams, detailed statements, measurements, etc
- Considerable knowledge of, and practical experience in, the principles and practices for determining legal liability

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

- Ability to review complex legal contracts and agreements in order to determine the appropriate apportionment of legal liability
- Ability to review and assess legal precedent and legislation/enactments as they relate to the claim being handled
- A working knowledge of general construction, maintenance, repair and operation of physical facilities and infrastructures
- Thorough knowledge of insurance and claims procedures and terminology
- Considerable knowledge of general claims administration and adjudication
- Excell