Construction Claims Specialist

Kirschner Contractors is seeking an experienced Construction Claims Specialist to join our team, contributing to projects as both a Claims Specialist and Senior Scheduler.

SUMMARY
As a Construction Claims Specialist, your primary responsibility is to manage and resolve claims arising during construction projects. You will be tasked with analyzing, investigating, and negotiating claims to ensure fair and timely resolution while minimizing risk and potential financial impacts to the company. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of Critical Path Method and Network Analysis Schedules, Time Impact Analysis, forensic scheduling, construction contracts, project management principles, and legal frameworks related to construction disputes. You'll collaborate closely with project stakeholders, legal counsel, and third-party experts to mitigate risks and achieve favorable outcomes for all parties involved. The ideal candidate would have construction experience, an analytical mind, a strong work ethic, a commitment to excellence, and a desire to work within a collaborative team.

PAY

Starting salary $140K (DOE)
Annual bonuses and performance-based incentives

Benefits package (health insurance, retirement)

LOCATION

This position is located in Hawai’i, with potential travel requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, project management, engineering, architecture, or related field required; advanced degree or professional certification (e.g., Certified Construction Manager, Project Management Professional) preferred;
• Proven experience in construction claims management, dispute resolution, legal frameworks related to construction claims, knowledge of construction law, arbitration rules, and dispute resolution procedures;
• Experience working on construction projects across various sectors and sizes;
• Advanced proficiency in Primavera, Microsoft Project, Microsoft Office Suite, and other scheduling or project management software applications;
• Thorough understanding of construction contracts, construction clauses related to scheduling and claims, project delivery methods, project management principles, and construction industry standards;
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and build positive relationships;
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate complex construction issues and develop practical solutions;
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and influence outcomes in contentious situations;
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet tight deadlines.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Scheduling Management: Create, analyze, and maintain project schedules, identify critical path activities, and assess schedule impacts of claims.
• Claims Management: Manage the entire claims process, including initial assessment, documentation, analysis, negotiation, and resolution.
• Claims Analysis: Review and assess claims submitted by contractors, subcontractors, and other parties involved in construction projects. Evaluate claims' validity, scope, and impact on project timelines, costs, and performance. Analyze construction schedules, cost data, and project documentation to assess the impact of delays, disruptions, defects, and design changes.
• Investigation: Conduct thorough investigations to gather relevant evidence, documentation, and testimonies to support or refute claims. Collaborate with project teams, legal counsel, and external experts to gather information and assess liability.
• Contract Review: Review construction contracts to identify potential areas of dispute, assess contractual obligations, and determine claim entitlement.
• Risk Assessment: Identify potential risks associated with claims and their potential impact on project outcomes. Develop strategies to mitigate risks and prevent future disputes. Collaborate with project teams to develop strategies for avoiding disputes, resolving conflicts, and fostering positive stakeholder relationships.
• Quantification: Quantify damages, extra costs, and time extensions associated with construction claims using established methodologies and industry standards.
• Dispute Resolution: Assist in dispute resolution proceedings, including mediation, arbitration, and litigation, by providing expert analysis and testimony as required.
• Communication: Communicate effectively with project teams, clients, contractors, and legal counsel to provide updates on claim status, discuss potential resolutions, and address concerns or inquiries promptly and professionally. Utilize strong written and verbal communication skills to convey schedule analysis findings effectively through written reports or expert witness testimony.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed records of claim-related correspondence, documentation, and agreements. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies throughout the claims resolution process. Organize and maintain comprehensive claim files, ensuring that all relevant documentation, correspondence, and supporting evidence are accurately recorded and preserved per legal and regulatory requirements.
• Continuous Improvement: Stay abreast of industry standards, regulations, and best practices related to construction claims management by obtaining pertinent certifications and training. Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement changes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Compliance: Ensure compliance with contractual requirements, legal regulations, industry standards, and company policies related to claims management.

ABOUT KIRSCHNER CONTRACTORS

The Kirschner Contractors team brings decades of actual “hands-on” construction and management experience, having successfully completed hundreds of projects totaling billions of dollars. This includes commercial, industrial, and heavy/civil projects on private, government, and federal contracts across the globe. Our company promotes “best practices” and utilizes the latest software applications to execute our projects. We work with owners, construction managers, general contractors, subcontractors, architects, and engineers. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, professional care, and timely work product in providing our services. As a Woman-Owned Small Business, our primary goal is to meet and surpass our clients' expectations.

Kirschner Contractors is an Equal Opportunity Employer