Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Joshua Applen

Byron,MN

Summary

Accomplished Claims Specialist with a proven track record at the Social Security Administration, adept in claims processing and investigation, and known for exceptional time management and decision-making skills. Demonstrated ability to enhance customer satisfaction and improve productivity by streamlining claims handling procedures. Excelled in teamwork and strategic planning during tenure with the Army, ensuring efficient claim resolution and operational excellence. Tactful Claims Specialist with expertise in claims processing and appeal filing. Diplomatic and personable professional accustomed to handling sensitive, confidential information and investigating complex claims. Committed to maintaining customer satisfaction and contributing to company success. Attentive team player consistently treats clients fairly and equitably. Motivated to succeed in fast-paced and deadline-driven professional environment. Gifted in working with stressed, confused and upset individuals in need of benefits information and supportive guidance to navigate SSA policy and procedures. Effective at operating within policy regulations and agency guidelines to manage telephone calls, emails, letters and in-person requests for assistance.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience

Work History

Operations Supervisor

Social Security Adminstration
03.2023 - 01.2024
  • Managed daily operations for optimal performance, ensuring smooth workflows and timely completion of tasks.
  • Maintained open lines of communication with upper management to provide regular updates on operational progress and challenges faced by the team.
  • Conducted regular performance evaluations for direct reports, identifying areas for improvement and setting development goals accordingly.
  • Enhanced team productivity by providing ongoing training, coaching, and mentoring to staff members.

Claims Specialist

Social Security Adminstration
06.2015 - 02.2023
  • Managed a high volume of claims effectively by prioritizing tasks and maintaining excellent organizational skills.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction with timely communication, empathy, and clear explanations of claim outcomes.
  • Developed strong working relationships with external partners such as adjusters, legal counsel, and medical professionals to facilitate efficient claim resolution processes.
  • Settled complex claims fairly by applying critical thinking, negotiation skills, and detailed knowledge of insurance policies.
  • Reduced claim processing errors by conducting thorough investigations and accurately interpreting policy details.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize claims handling procedures, resulting in improved productivity.

Claims Specialist

Social Security Adminstration
01.2024 - Current
  • Managed a high volume of claims effectively by prioritizing tasks and maintaining excellent organizational skills.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction with timely communication, empathy, and clear explanations of claim outcomes.
  • Developed strong working relationships with external partners such as adjusters, legal counsel, and medical professionals to facilitate efficient claim resolution processes.
  • Settled complex claims fairly by applying critical thinking, negotiation skills, and detailed knowledge of agency policies.

Customer Service Representative

Social Security Adminstration
06.2010 - 06.2015
  • Managed high-stress situations effectively, maintaining professionalism under pressure while resolving disputes or conflicts.
  • Resolved customer complaints with empathy, resulting in increased loyalty and repeat business.
  • Handled escalated calls efficiently, finding satisfactory resolutions for both customers and the company alike.
  • Responded to customer requests for products, services, and company information.

Radio and Comsec Repair

Army
08.2007 - 11.2011
  • Collaborated with fellow service members from other branches during joint exercises, demonstrating adaptability and teamwork capabilities.
  • Assisted superiors with strategic planning initiatives, providing valuable input based on experience in previous deployments.
  • Operated and maintained armored vehicles.
  • Secured and protected military property, assets, and personnel.

Education

High School Diploma -

Southland Senior High School
Adams, MN
06.2006

Skills

  • Claims
  • Claims Processing
  • Claims Investigation
  • Verbal Communication
  • Policy Interpretation
  • Claims analysis

Timeline

Claims Specialist

Social Security Adminstration
01.2024 - Current

Operations Supervisor

Social Security Adminstration
03.2023 - 01.2024

Claims Specialist

Social Security Adminstration
06.2015 - 02.2023

Customer Service Representative

Social Security Adminstration
06.2010 - 06.2015

Radio and Comsec Repair

Army
08.2007 - 11.2011

High School Diploma -

Southland Senior High School
Joshua Applen