Paralegal - Claims Administrator

SALARY: up to $55,000 - $63,000 annually

SCHEDULE:

Normal business hours 8:00 AM-5:00 PM, Monday-Friday. Schedule is subject to change based on operational needs.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The City of South Bend seeks a highly motivated paralegal to join its legal team as a claims administrator. The selected individual will work primarily to investigate, evaluate, negotiate, and resolve claims on behalf of the City of South Bend. The person in this role will also provide litigation assistance to City attorneys and offer assistance to administrative staff when necessary.

As a leader and employee of the City of South Bend, you are called upon to serve in a manner that supports Our Core Values: Excellence, Accountability, Innovation, Inclusion, and Empowerment as you carry out our primary employee expectations: Champion Values & Organizational Pride, Champion Operational Excellence, Make Sound Decisions, Embrace Coaching and Accountability, Communicate with Excellence, Value Diverse People and Perspectives, Embrace Personal Development, Exhibit a Positive Attitude and Own Your Health, Wellness & Safety

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: None.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Critical competencies include, but are not limited to, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, time-management and accountability. The following list represents the types of duties required by this position. Other duties may be assigned as reasonably expected.

Process and analyze liability claims against the City, including collecting and reviewing relevant records and applicable ordinances.

Calculate preliminary damages valuations.

Perform thorough claims investigations, including interviewing City employees and on-site visits as needed.

Process and analyze claims of damage to City property and pursue reimbursement from the at-fault party.

Interact with the public as needed, communicating clearly, professionally, and concisely.

Produce an accurate and polished final work product, including memoranda and written correspondence.

Research, analyze, and summarize complex issues of fact and law.

Negotiate claims settlements under the direction of Corporation Counsel.

Navigate a wide range of electronic databases and legal software.

Assist department attorneys with litigation matters, including calendaring deadlines and organizing records.

Prepare initial drafts of certain court documents for attorney review and assist with discovery matters.

Manage a high-volume case load with ability to prioritize time-sensitive matters.

Ability to work in a collaborative team environment, as well as ability to work independently.

Perform other duties and assume other responsibilities as assigned, as apparent, or as delegated.

NON-ESSENTIAL/MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:

Other duties or functions may be added as needed, including but not limited to occasional assistance to administrative staff, including answering phones and assisting residents in-person.

EDUCATION / QUALIFICATIONS:

At least five years of claims related experience in a legal or insurance office setting.

Bachelor's degree (a higher education degree, such as a J.D., may be substituted for some years of experience).

Strong computer technology skills, including proficiency with Microsoft products and Westlaw.

Experience with municipal functions and claims processes.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Excellent research, writing, and analytical ability.

Ability to communicate effectively with members of the public.

Superior organizational skills.

Detail oriented.

Good character and interpersonal skills.

Willingness and desire to learn.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSE, REGISTRATION:

Valid Driver's license required.

Paralegal Certificate strongly preferred.

EQUIPMENT:

Computer, telephone, fax machine, scanner, copier, and general office equipment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, walk, talk, or hear. The employee is required to type, use hands to fingers, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds. Specific vision abilities required in this job include vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work is typically performed in on-site in office settings, with moderate inside temperatures. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate in the office. Entire office is smoke free.

DISCLAIMER:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of personnel so classified. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. The City of South Bend is an at will employer.

REQUIRED:

Pre-Employment Drug Screen

Employee Background check

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

 

Salary

• $55,000 - $63,000/year