As the job market continues to shift in 2026, many people are pivoting their careers or taking steps in entirely new directions. Most people simply want a role with structure, stability, and growth potential. This is why many professionals have started exploring new opportunities in insurance, claims, or customer service.
During a search in our industry, these two job titles often appear together: claims representative and subrogation. At first glance, they seem similar. Both involve handling insurance claims. Both require attention to detail and strong communication skills. But there are differences between the two that are important to note. Understanding how claims and subrogation roles differ can help you choose the path that best fits your strengths and goals.
Claims Representative vs. Subrogation Roles
While claims representatives and subrogation professionals both work with insurance claims, they typically step in at different stages of the process.
Claims Representative Jobs
A claims representative focuses on evaluating and processing a claim after an incident occurs. Their job is to review information, determine coverage, and help move the claim toward resolution. Typical responsibilities may include:
- Reviewing claim documentation
- Speaking with policyholders, drivers, or witnesses
- Evaluating coverage and policy details
- Coordinating with repair shops, medical providers, or insurers
- Documenting claim activity and decisions
Claims representative jobs in remote settings typically require strong organization, clear communication, and the ability to manage multiple cases at once. It can also involve a high level of customer interaction. Many professionals start their insurance careers in claims roles because they provide a strong foundation in how the claims process works.
Subrogation Roles
Subrogation professionals enter the process after a claim has already been paid, helping work to recover the costs. Their focus is on determining which party is financially responsible and ensuring all parties are financially restored appropriately. Common responsibilities in subrogation roles include:
- Reviewing claim files and supporting documentation
- Identifying liability and responsible parties
- Communicating with insurers, businesses, or individuals
- Negotiating recovery payments
- Tracking and documenting recovery progress
Subrogation work is often more analytical and negotiation-focused than traditional claims roles. Instead of determining whether a claim is covered, subrogation professionals focus on whether recovery is possible, who is responsible, and how to pursue recovery effectively.
Transferable Skills Across Roles
Although claims and subrogation roles are different, many of the required core skills overlap. Professionals with experience in claims can often transition successfully into subrogation roles because they already understand the claims process. A few of these transferable skills are:
- Investigative thinking
- Attention to detail
- Documentation and case management
- Communication with multiple parties
- Negotiation and problem-solving
- Time management across multiple files
For example, someone who has worked as a claims representative may already feel comfortable reviewing documentation and explaining claim decisions. These skills translate well to evaluating recovery opportunities as a subrogation adjuster.
How to Grow in Both Roles
Both career paths offer opportunities for advancement. In claims roles, professionals may progress into:
- Senior claims representative positions
- Complex or specialty claims handling
- Claims management or supervision
Subrogation roles also offer growth opportunities. As professionals gain experience, they may move into:
- Senior recovery roles
- High-value or complex subrogation cases
- Team leadership or management
Many professionals move between these two paths during their careers. Experience in claims can provide a strong foundation for subrogation work, while subrogation experience can deepen a professional’s understanding of liability and insurance recovery.
Can I Work Remotely in Either Role?
Remote work opportunities exist in both claims and subrogation roles. However, expectations can vary by employer and position.
Some remote jobs for claims representatives allow professionals to work fully from home, while others may have a hybrid structure, requiring people to come into the office occasionally. Subrogation roles are also frequently performed in remote or hybrid environments. Because the work focuses on documentation, communication, and negotiation, it can often be done in a structured remote setting.
In either case, remote work still requires strong organization, accountability, and communication skills. Professionals must be comfortable managing their workload independently while staying connected with their team.
Which Role Is Right for Me?
Choosing between claims and subrogation often comes down to personal strengths and career preferences.
Claims roles may be a good fit for professionals who enjoy:
- Investigating new incidents
- Working directly with policyholders
- Managing claims from start to resolution
Subrogation jobs may appeal to professionals who enjoy:
- Reviewing documentation and identifying liability
- Negotiating with other parties
- Focusing on recovery and resolution
Both paths can lead to stable, long-term careers. For many professionals, the decision is not about choosing one job to stay at forever. It’s about choosing the best starting point.
Subrogation Jobs at Viking Client Services
At Viking Client Services, team members work in structured roles that support insurance recovery, claims processes, and financial resolution. Many of these roles are remote, with each path designed to help you grow in your professional career, wherever you see yourself in the future. If you are interested in learning more about current opportunities, explore open positions at Viking Client Services and see where your experience may best fit.
