This is supervisory and administrative field work in the investigation and assessment of damages to Miami-Dade Water & Sewer facilities.

An employee in this class supervises the Damages Investigative Unit and responds to damaged sites to inspect, document and determine liability for damages to water and sewer property. Responsibilities include supervising and conducting investigations of construction and work sites, gathering information from witnesses and suspects, determining the validity of evidential information and making recommendations as to liability. The incumbent exercises independent judgment in the application of departmental policies and the determination of liability for property damage. Supervision is received from an administrative superior who reviews work for the attainment of desired objectives.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Supervises and administers the Damages Investigative Unit to include coordinating, scheduling and assigning work performed by the investigative and clerical staff; reviews damage cases, production reports and correspondence; writes and updates field and office procedures; reviews unit production and collection activity reports; sets annual goals and objectives for the unit.

Conducts field investigations of property damage to water and sewer facilities caused by contractors, excavators, property owners and other utility companies to include inspecting damaged sites; assessing damages and determining liable party; developing preliminary damage reports; taking photographs and drawing sketches; taking measurements; interviewing witnesses and taking statements and interpreting construction drawings.

Reviews and prepares responses to correspondence to include dispute letters, settlement letters, documents and inquiries from liable parties, insurance companies, attorneys and other governmental agencies; prepares outgoing correspondence and memoranda including letters of notice, reports, documents and inquiries; prepares responses to intra-departmental and inter-departmental memoranda; prepares and reviews invoices for damage.

Performs follow-up collection activities for major damage claims and claims where the liable party denies responsibility; writes demand letters, provides supporting technical information and evidence; cites state laws and local ordinances; attends depositions and justifies departmental expenses; prepares monthly and annual reports for management to include the number of open and closed cases, billing and collection information and employee production reports.

Meets with departmental management, contractors, attorneys, insurance carriers and adjusters, Risk Management and other governmental agencies and utility companies to discuss disputes, settlements, evidence and damage prevention.

Makes recommendations regarding hiring, discipline and promotion of subordinates; authorizes leave and overtime; evaluates and rates employee performance.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Considerable knowledge of practices and techniques used in the investigation and documentation of property damages.

Considerable knowledge of the rules of evidence as they related to the preparation of court cases.

Considerable knowledge of departmental rules, regulations and policies related to the investigation and assessment of property damages.

Considerable knowledge of collection techniques and practices.

Knowledge of the geography of water and sewer utility facilities.

Knowledge of public relations principles and practices.

Knowledge of general office practices and procedures.

Knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.

Ability to inspect property damage sites and gather evidential information.

Ability to obtain information through interviews and investigative methods.

Ability to supervise subordinates in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, superiors, and a variety of other public and private individuals.

Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, verbally and in writing.

NEW/03/06/2007