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Claims Handler Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

This position reports into the VP of Program Claims who works from our San Antonio, TX office.This ... Hold TPAs and internal claim handlers accountable for timely investigation, supportable reserves ...

Material Handler - Warehouse

Elkton, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

The Material Handler - Warehouse position provides inventory, administrative, and material handling ... Provides administrative support for inbound deliveries and claims and dunnage returns. What You'll ...

Responsibilities With Regard to Workers' Compensation Claims: You are responsible for reporting all ... Food Safety Professional Certification, Local Food handlers permit if required. Physical Demands:

Responsibilities With Regard to Workers' Compensation Claims: You are responsible for reporting any ... Local Food Handlers permit if required. Supervisory Responsibilities: This position has direct ...

Responsibilities With Regard to Workers' Compensation Claims: You are responsible for reporting all ... Food Safety Professional Certification, Local Food handlers permit if required. Physical Demands:

Responsibilities With Regard to Workers' Compensation Claims: You are responsible for reporting all ... Food Safety Professional Certification, Local Food handlers permit if required. Physical Demands:

Claims Handler information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do claims handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for claims handler in Virginia is $17.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Claims Handler vs Claims Adjuster?

AspectClaims HandlerClaims Adjuster
CredentialsOften requires insurance-related certifications or trainingTypically requires similar certifications, such as CPCU or AIC
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, customer service focusField or office-based, investigation-oriented
Industry UsageCommon in insurance companies, brokersUsed in insurance companies, especially in property and casualty
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare Claims Handler with Claims Adjuster for job roles and responsibilitiesSimilar roles with nuanced differences in investigation and settlement processes

Claims Handlers and Claims Adjusters both work within the insurance industry, often requiring similar certifications and working environments. While Claims Handlers primarily focus on customer service and processing claims, Claims Adjusters are more involved in investigating and assessing claims, sometimes in the field. Understanding these differences helps job seekers and employers find the right fit for their needs.

How much does a claims handler make?

A claims handler's average salary varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year. Entry-level claims handlers may earn around $35,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn over $80,000 annually. Certifications and familiarity with claims management software can influence earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Claims Handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Claims Handler, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of insurance policies, typically supported by a degree or equivalent experience in insurance or finance. Familiarity with claims management software, CRM systems, and regulatory compliance tools is commonly required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills help you efficiently resolve claims and build trust with clients. These skills are essential to ensure accurate claims processing, minimize risk, and deliver positive customer experiences.

What does a Claims Handler do?

A Claims Handler is responsible for managing insurance claims from start to finish. They assess policyholder claims, gather necessary documentation, investigate the circumstances, and determine the validity and amount of the claim. Claims Handlers communicate with clients, insurance adjusters, and other stakeholders to ensure a fair and efficient resolution. Their goal is to process claims accurately and in accordance with company policies and legal requirements.

Is claim adjusting a dying field?

Claims handling is a stable profession that involves evaluating insurance claims, and demand remains consistent due to ongoing insurance needs. While technology such as claims management software and automation tools are increasingly used, the role still requires strong analytical skills and industry knowledge, making it a viable career option.

What are some common challenges a Claims Handler may face, and how can they be addressed?

Claims Handlers often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, dealing with complex or disputed claims, and maintaining clear communication with clients and third parties. Staying organized and prioritizing tasks is essential to handle workloads efficiently. Developing strong negotiation and problem-solving skills can help when working through disputed claims, while keeping up-to-date with industry regulations ensures compliance and accuracy. Building positive relationships with colleagues and customers also helps create a supportive work environment and improves claim resolution outcomes.

What is the role of a claims handler?

A claims handler is responsible for managing insurance claims by assessing the validity of claims, investigating incidents, and determining appropriate payouts. They communicate with claimants, gather necessary documentation, and ensure claims are processed efficiently, often using claims management software. Strong communication skills and knowledge of insurance policies are essential for this role.

How to get a job as a claims adjuster with no experience?

To become a claims handler with no experience, focus on developing strong communication, organization, and customer service skills. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent, and obtaining relevant certifications such as the Property and Casualty (P&C) license can improve your chances; some employers offer on-the-job training for new hires.
What are the most commonly searched types of Claims Handler jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Claims Handler jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Claims Handler job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,053 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Senior Claims Examiner, Ocean Marine Claims

Markel International

Richmond, VA

$32.50 - $44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

What part will you play? If you're looking for a place where you can make a meaningful difference, you've found it.

The work we do at Markel gives people the confidence to move forward and seize opportunities, and you'll find your fit amongst our global community of optimists and problem-solvers. We're always pushing each other to go further because we believe that when we realize our potential, we can help others reach theirs. Join us and play your part in something special! This position will be responsible for the resolution of moderate to high complexity and moderate to high exposure ocean marine bodily injury and property damage claims which can be subject to disputes that must be resolved in mediation or litigation. The primary purpose of this job is to handle claims from coverage enquiry through legal liability assessment (where relevant) and quantum analysis, to timely and accurate resolution; ensuring mitigation of indemnity and expense exposure while communicating developments and outcomes as necessary to all internal and external stakeholders. The position will have increased responsibility for decision making within their authority and work with minimal oversight and will provide training and be a technical referral point for other team members.

Job Responsibilities

  • Typically handles moderate to complex exposure ocean marine bodily injury and property damage claims including, but not limited to, Commercial General Liability, Protection & Indemnity, Marina Operator's Protection & Indemnity, and Marine Excess (Bumbershoot) Liability, as well as Hull, Piers, Wharves & Docks, and Ocean Cargo. Additionally, lends support to Commercial Auto products as needed.
  • Serves as primary contact person and/or claims designee for selected accounts.
  • Confirms coverage of claims by reviewing policies and documents submitted in support of claims.
  • Directs and monitors assignments to experts and outside counsel, ensures effective vendor and litigation management on moderate to high complexity claims including demonstrable savings
  • Analyzes coverage and communicates coverage positions. Prepares coverage position letters
  • Utilizes acceptable investigation claims handling and settlement techniques that achieve cost effective and timely closure results by obtaining, reviewing and analyzing documentation, policy provisions and other records.
  • Conducts, coordinates, and directs investigation into loss facts and extent of damages
  • Provides timely service throughout the life cycle of the claim by meeting all service level agreements, initiating timely contact to all appropriate parties, and responding to incoming inquiries according to company policy and procedures.
  • Evaluates information on coverage, liability, and damages to determine the extent of insured's exposure
  • Sets reserves within authority or makes claim recommendations concerning reserve changes to manager
  • Negotiates and settles claims either directly or indirectly
  • Prepares reports by collecting and summarizing information
  • Present at roundtables to senior claims leaders and underwriters on higher exposure cases
  • Participates in special projects or assists other team members as requested
  • Travel to mediations, trials, and conferences as required
  • Coordinates loss information for business stakeholders and presents information during meetings with underwriters and/or insureds when applicable
  • Delivers technical training and/or provides mentorship to colleagues

Education

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience
  • JD , advanced degree, or focused technical degree a plus

Certification

  • Must have or be eligible to receive claims adjuster license in all states.
  • Successful achievement of industry designations (INS, IEA, AIC, ARM, SCLA, CPCU, AMIM) or
  • Participation in industry training opportunities (CLM Claim College, Munich Re Training, FDCC, etc.)

Work Experience

  • Minimum of 5+ years of ocean marine, general liability or equivalent combination of education and experience in insurance, with applied knowledge of bodily injury claims
  • Successful completion of 5 years as a Claims Examiner
  • Commercial auto experience a plus

Skill Sets

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Strong analytical and problem solving skills
  • Strong organization and time management skills
  • Experience in negotiation, mediations, arbitrations and monitoring trials on higher value complex claims
  • Ability to influence claims stakeholders and to effectively direct claims strategy
  • Strong vendor management skills are required including the ability to provide direction and guidance to defense attorneys, independent adjusters, building consultants, forensic accountants and other experts while controlling expenses.
  • Ability to assist with technical training to team claim handlers as required
  • Well-developed and advanced expertise and knowledge in most technically complex claims topics
  • Policy language skills enabling accurate and consistent policy wording interpretation
  • Experience in effectively following up on recommendations from technical claims audits and continuous file handling improvement.
  • Ability to deliver outstanding customer service
  • Intermediate skills in Microsoft Office products (Excel, Outlook, Power Point, Word)
  • Ability to work in a team environment
  • Strong desire for continuous improvement

#LI-AB

#LI-Hybrid

US Work Authorization

US Work Authorization required. Markel does not provide visa sponsorship for this position, now or in the future.

Pay information:

The base salary offered for the successful candidate will be based on compensable factors such as job-relevant education, job-relevant experience, training, licensure, demonstrated competencies, geographic location, and other factors. The national average salary range for the Senior Compliance Examiner is $78,000 - $107,250 with 15% incentive.

Who we are:

Markel Group (NYSE - MKL) a fortune 500 company with over 60 offices in 20+ countries, is a holding company for insurance, reinsurance, specialist advisory and investment operations around the world.

We're all about people | We win together | We strive for better

We enjoy the everyday | We think further

What's in it for you:

In keeping with the values of the Markel Style, we strive to support our employees in living their lives to the fullest at home and at work.

  • We offer competitive benefit programs that help meet our diverse and changing environment as well as support our employees' needs at all stages of life.

  • All full-time employees have the option to select from multiple health, dental and vision insurance plan options and optional life, disability, and AD&D insurance.

  • We also offer a 401(k) with employer match contributions, an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, PTO, corporate holidays and floating holidays, parental leave.

Are you ready to play your part?

Choose 'Apply Now' to fill out our short application, so that we can find out more about you.

Caution: Employment scams

Markel is aware of employment-related scams where scammers will impersonate recruiters by sending fake job offers to those actively seeking employment in order to steal personal information. Frequently, the scammer will reach out to individuals who have posted their resume online. These "job offers" include convincing offer letters and frequently ask for confidential personal information. Therefore, for your safety, please note that:

  • All legitimate job postings with Markel will be posted on Markel Careers. No other URL should be trusted for job postings.

  • All legitimate communications with Markel recruiters will come from Markel.com email addresses.

We would also ask that you please report any job employment scams related to Markel to rarecruiting@markel.com.

Markel is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of any protected characteristic. This includes race; color; sex; religion; creed; national origin or place of birth; ancestry; age; disability; affectional or sexual orientation; gender expression or identity; genetic information, sickle cell trait, or atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait; refusal to submit to genetic tests or make genetic test results available; medical condition; citizenship status; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; marital status, civil union status, domestic partnership status, familial status, or family responsibilities; military or veteran status, including unfavorable discharge from military service; personal appearance, height, or weight; matriculation or political affiliation; expunged juvenile records; arrest and court records where prohibited by applicable law; status as a victim of domestic or sexual violence; public assistance status; order of protection status; status as a smoker or nonsmoker; membership or activity in local commissions; the use or nonuse of lawful products off employer premises during non-work hours; declining to attend meetings or participate in communications about religious or political matters; or any other classification protected by applicable law.

Should you require any accommodation through the application process, please send an e-mail to therarecruiting@markel.com.

No agencies please.