Founded in 2000, Higgins & Associates, Inc. is a multi-disciplined forensic engineering and architecture firm located in Littleton, Colorado, that provides forensic engineering and architecture, expert witness, and appraisal services to the insurance industry, law firms, contractors, and commercial/residential property owners.
Higgins & Associates is seeking a highly motivated Insurance Appraiser / Estimator with a strong focus on delivering exceptional service and superior work product for our clients. You will be responsible for managing the appraisal process including the development of cost of repair estimates in support of contested claims for our insurance clients.
The ideal candidate will be familiar with the Department of Regulatory Affairs (DORA) appraisal regulations in Colorado and be skilled at conducting detailed take-off analysis and providing defensible opinions in support of appraisals and other claims related projects. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of four years of insurance adjusting experience, with a deep knowledge of roofing, building envelope and interior cost estimation. A working knowledge of the Xactimate estimation software is required for this position. The candidate will demonstrate a strong desire to understand and learn the methodology for negotiating and settling appraisals, insurance loss claims, and restoration cost of repair assignments in a timely manner. Some experience in the construction, restoration or roofing field would be a significant benefit.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Ability to develop accurate Xactimate and spreadsheet-based estimates, including revisions and adjustments to existing estimate packages.
- Perform field inspections, required site visits and conduct appraisal activities in conjunction with licensed professional engineers or architects on staff.
- Use excellent communication and customer management skills to ensure deadlines and cost targets are met.
- Collaborate with other team members to produce effective appraisal and estimation packages in support our insurance related projects.
Education/ Formal Training Required:
- At least four years of appraisal management and/or experience as an insurance adjuster.
- Two years’ experience of creating estimates using the Xactimate estimating software is required. Formal Xactimate certification is a plus.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat tools.
Job and Industry Experience:
- Industry related degrees, credentials, or certifications (a non-resident adjuster license is highly preferred).
- Strong time management skills.
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to build and maintain relationships internally and externally.
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines while remaining detail and quality focused.
- Ability to communicate effectively with others including strong written and spoken communication skills.
Our Offer:
- We aim to create an environment where the best people want to work, where they can turn their passion into their job and realize their full potential.
- Individual development, on-the-job training, and development programs designed to help our employees grow in their careers.
- Competitive pay.
- Annual performance-related bonus.
- 100% company paid healthcare, dental and vision insurance.
- 401(k).
- Unlimited time off policy.
- Flexible work environment with option to work remotely.
Compensation: From $75,000 dependent on experience.
Applications accepted via email to: careers@higginsassoc.com
