Inspector, insurance

What does a claims adjuster in insurance do? – Tasks and work environment

A claims adjuster in insurance primarily assesses and appraises damages to property, vehicles, or other insured objects. The work involves thorough inspections, investigations, and documentation of damaged items to determine the cause of damages and the value of repairs or compensation. Contact with policyholders, contractors, workshops, and insurance companies is often daily and requires high service orientation and the ability to communicate clearly and objectively. The work environment is varied – some days are spent in an office with documentation and report writing, others on site visits in the field, sometimes under time pressure or in challenging environments.

Salary development over time

The salary for a claims adjuster in insurance has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,600 SEK per month, which increased to 41 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 43 600 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 10 percent over three years. This positive salary trend can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified claims adjusters as the insurance industry has become more complex, with higher requirements for documentation and technical competence. The industry's focus on further training and certifications has also contributed to raising salary levels. Gender pay gaps persist, with men earning more on average than women in the profession.

Claims adjuster, insurance salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 43 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 39,900 SEK/month (female, private sector)
• Highest salary: 50,800 SEK/month (male, private sector with at least 3 years post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 262 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 42 300 SEK, men 45 300 SEK – women earn 93% of men's salary
• Regional differences: Data on regional variations are currently unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a claims adjuster in insurance, a post-secondary education in technology, construction, vehicle engineering, or a related field is typically required. Some employers may also require certification or specialized courses depending on the damage area. Practical experience from the industry is highly valued, and many claims adjusters have backgrounds as technicians, engineers, or craftsmen. Opportunities for further education and specialization are available through employers and external training providers.

• Formal education: Post-secondary education in technology, construction, or vehicles (2–3 years)
• Certification: Industry-specific certificates, e.g., SBR or equivalent
• Internship: Internship or trainee position recommended for insight into damage assessment
• Prerequisites: Technical knowledge and experience from relevant industries
• Courses and further training: Opportunities for specialization in areas such as property or vehicles

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for a claims adjuster in insurance include company car, wellness allowance, mobile phone and computer, and the possibility of remote work to some extent. Some employers also offer bonus schemes, pension contributions, and ongoing professional development. Irregular working hours and flexitime agreements are common to meet the needs of site visits and urgent cases.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a claims adjuster in insurance is moderate but varies depending on region and damage area. The shortage of formally trained personnel in certain niches can make it easier for those with the right skills to find employment. Challenges in the profession include high demands for accuracy, objectivity, and the ability to handle stressful situations, especially in cases of extensive damages or disputes. Digitalization and the development of new work tools increase requirements for technical skills and adaptability. Limited data makes it difficult to provide an exact forecast of future competition.

Tips for aspiring claims adjusters in insurance

To succeed as a claims adjuster in insurance, it is beneficial to have analytical skills and an eye for detail, which aid in damage assessment and reporting. Being communicative facilitates contact with customers and colleagues, and a solution-oriented attitude helps handle unexpected situations on site. Technical understanding is crucial, especially for interpreting damage processes and assessing measures. Being resilient and organized helps manage periods of high workload and multiple cases. Finally, integrity and objectivity are essential qualities, as the profession often requires impartial assessments and responsibility for difficult decisions.

Key facts about claims adjusters in insurance

• Education level: Post-secondary education in technology, construction, or vehicles
• Work environment: Varies between office and site visits
• Typical employment: Permanent employment, sometimes with irregular working hours
• Demand: 751 job openings in 2024
• Special skills: Damage assessment, technical analysis, report writing

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a claims adjuster in insurance, opportunities exist to advance to senior roles, such as specialist in a damage area, team leader, or trainer for new claims adjusters. Some choose to broaden their expertise into related fields like claims handling, valuation, or project management within the insurance industry. According to the Employment Service's occupational forecast, no precise assessment of future prospects can be made due to limited data, but the number of job openings in the profession is relatively high. Digitalization and increased complexity in insurance suggest a continued need for technically skilled claims adjusters moving forward.

Common questions about claims adjusters in insurance

• What does a claims adjuster in insurance earn?
  - The average salary is 43 600 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience and employer.
• What education is required to become a claims adjuster in insurance?
  - Post-secondary education in technology, construction, or vehicles is recommended, along with certification in the claims area.
• Are there gender differences in salary for insurance claims adjusters?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do in the profession.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are approximately 751 job openings in the claims adjusting and valuation profession.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical ability, technical knowledge, accuracy, and good communication skills are important qualities.
• Can you specialize within the profession?
  - Yes, it is possible to specialize in areas such as vehicles, property, or industrial damages.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 50,800 SEK (male, private sector), the lowest 39,900 SEK (female, private sector).