Few people ever imagine as a child that they will want to work in the insurance field when they grow up. However, as young adults enter the workforce, some may see the great opportunities that exist in choosing a career as a worker’s compensation specialist. Job stability, employment options, estimated salaries, and education requirements are all factors that attract people to this specialty.
Because businesses are required by law in most states to purchase this important coverage for their employees, it is not a field that will impacted much by the rise and fall of the nation’s economy. The jobs that exist aren’t going anywhere, and though it isn’t likely to be a fast growing job market, it is a steady one. There is a consistent demand for new professionals to enter the field, and many companies prefer to hire entry level employees to save money in salary expenditures. Likewise, other privately owned companies only want experienced specialists that can be trusted to handle a lot of responsibility.
There are also a wide variety of employment types available to these specialists. While entry level positions are likely going to be with insurance companies as a claims adjuster, career opportunities open up as you gain more experience. In addition to jobs with the insurance companies themselves, larger businesses often hire someone specifically to handle all of the details regarding insurance coverage, handling employee claims on workplace injuries, and performing onsite training for safety procedures to help reduce risk of harm.
Often, these specialists are able work independently. This factor appeals to people who enjoy having a specific caseload and handling responsibilities. However, it also means that the people who thrive in this career choice are those that are motivated to work, have good organizational skills, and can communicate effectively with others.
A third attraction for this field is the salary potential. Although entry level employees typically make between $30,000 and $35,000 per year, a worker’s compensation specialists with ten years of experience or more can make upwards of $65,000 per year. Although this career path does not rank as one of the highest paid jobs, these professionals earn a respectable salary for someone with an undergraduate degree. Likewise, the professional certifications that you have to obtain to be qualified are not very expensive or difficult to achieve, unlike some other specialized fields.
As with many other careers, those who are ambitious enough to go into business for themselves as an independent claims adjuster may be able to make over $100,000 annually. However, entrepreneurs of all types have to put significant effort into growing their businesses and making them successful, so this option may not be ideal for everyone.
The education required for someone to enter this career field is typically an undergraduate degree in human resources or risk management. Many employers will accept any degree similar to these. Mainly, they expect that you will have learned basic business practices, accounting skills, and how to manage and work with company employees.
In addition to a bachelor’s degree, you will need to obtain some sort of professional certification. There are quite a few organizations that offer this training and testing online, so be sure to go with a company whose credentials are widely recognized and accepted. Because program requirements vary from state to state, pursue certifications that are specific to your state’s guidelines and that are preferred by employees in the area in which you plan on working. Once you have learned the materials, you will be required to taken an exam and pass with a score of 70% or higher. The cost of obtaining this certification is usually between $200 and $400.
Regardless of what attracted you to becoming a worker’s compensation specialist, many people find this to be a very rewarding career. Many enjoy the independent work environment, interaction with others, and the feeling of accomplishment when a case is resolved satisfactorily.