Sr. Research Specialist

Description
We are always looking for great talent to fill current/future openings at Assurant.

The Research Specialist and Sr. Research Specialist will provides front line, direct contact with clients and customers, this is done through receiving or placing telephone calls, in addition to working faxes, electronic methods (e-mail & system of record task assignments), correspondence, mail, express delivery, reports, and project assignments. These positions serves as back-up resources to the Call Center Department, processing inbound calls as needed. You will use computerized system for tracking, information gathering and/or trouble shooting the items raised by the client/customer. Recognize consistent problem areas and reports to higher level for action. Seeks to retain account and/or suggest and encourage use of other services and products. Depending on area may promote and sell products and/or services and enter or confirm sales. Follow standard procedures and policies with more senior levels using greater latitude and judgment in responding to customers. Provide collateral protection services by ensuring all customers are adequately insured as well as adding lender place insurance for uninsured customers.

Research Specialist is responsible for:

• Research/resolve loan level inquires and exception items through inbound calls, fax, emails, tasks, correspondence, reports, and/or special projects. More experienced associates will be involved in root cause analysis of more complex inquiries and research.
• Handle in-bound and out-bound calls from our customers in hazard insurance, mortgage banking, and property loss.
• Research and respond to inquiries and prepare responses to customers and clients.
• Initially works in a single client/functional environment due to limited knowledge and skill set. More experienced associates will work in a multi-client or multi-functional environment.

The Sr. Research Specialist performs the duties of the Research Specialist role as listed above. The Senior Research Specialist will also assist and mentor the Research Specialist in his/her responsibilities. In addition, the Senior Research role is responsible for researching and addressing escalated issues, training associates, and providing support to the team lead.

• Root cause, research and resolve the most complex loan level inquires and exception items received through inbound calls, fax, emails, tasks, correspondence, reports, and/or special projects.
• Research and respond to escalated issues and prepare responses to customers and clients.
• Handle in-bound and out-bound calls from our customers in hazard insurance, mortgage banking, and property loss.
• Works in a multi client /functional environment due to expanded knowledge and skill set.
• Handle escalated inquiries and assignments, as required
• Assist with projects
• Assist with training of new hires and associate cross training initiatives, assisting with facilitation as needed.

Qualifications
Basic Qualifications Required Experience, Skills, and Knowledge:

Research Specialist:

• High school diploma/GED
• Minimum of 1 year customer service, banking, finance, mortgage lending or related experience
• Basic to intermediate computer skills, (ability to create and edit spreadsheets and emails)

Sr. Research Specialist:

• High school diploma/GED require
• Intermediate computer skills, (ability to create, edit and analyze spreadsheets and emails),
• Minimum 3 years customer service, banking, finance, mortgage lending or related experience

Preferred Qualifications Required Experience, Skills, and Knowledge:
Research Specialist:

• Proficient at verbal and written communication when communicating with customers/clients
• Strong attention to detail
• Strong customer service skills
• Excellent listening skills
• Ability to adapt well to change
• Works well in team environment and as an individual contributor
• Work well in a fast paced/high stress environment.
• Ability to think outside of the box to resolve problems
• Ability to relay and document accurate and detailed information to various parties via in-bound and out-bound telephone calls, and through written communication.

Sr. Research Specialist:

• 2 year degree preferred

Requisition Number: 50225