Senior Post QME Paralegal (Worker's Compensation)

Senior Post QME Paralegal (Worker's Compensation)You'll lead the team through the post-QME stage of each case and own the most complex matters yourself. Your responsibilities will include:Team Leadership & Quality AssuranceAssist the manager and support the Post-QME team's daily operationsTrain and onboard new team members on post-QME procedures, systems, and firm standardsServe as the first line of support for team member questions and escalated issuesConduct regular case audits to ensure records, diagnostics, and filings are handled accurately and on timeHelp distribute case assignments evenly and monitor team workloadStep into any team member role when needed to keep cases movingPrepare and update weekly team metric reportsRecommend process improvements to increase efficiency and reduce delaysMedical Record Procurement & Submission (Complex & Escalated Cases)Review QME report data and identify all outstanding records requested by the evaluatorContact clients to determine where they have treated and gather provider, facility, and treatment history informationRequest, obtain, organize, and submit medical records to QMEs and AMEsTrack outstanding record requests and follow up with providers to ensure timely receiptMaintain accurate documentation of all requests, communications, and submissions in the case management systemSubpoenas & DiscoveryPrepare and process subpoenas for medical, employment, wage, and other relevant recordsCoordinate service of subpoenas and monitor complianceReview subpoena responses for completeness and identify missing records requiring follow-upAssist in obtaining declarations and supporting documentation for discovery disputesDiagnostic Testing CoordinationReview QME recommendations for diagnostic studies, including:MRI scans, X-rays, and CT scansEMG/NCV studiesLaboratory testing and other specialty diagnostic evaluationsRequest authorization status and vendor information from defense counsel, claims administrators, and utilization review departmentsCoordinate appointments with approved diagnostic vendors and facilitiesCommunicate appointment details to clients and ensure attendanceObtain completed diagnostic reports and submit them to the appropriate physicians and partiesDefense Communication & Follow-UpCommunicate with defense counsel and insurance representatives regarding outstanding authorizations, records, and diagnostic testingMonitor deadlines and follow up on unanswered requestsEscalate unresolved issues when authorizations, records, or diagnostic studies are delayedPrepare correspondence demanding compliance with QME recommendations and discovery obligationsWCAB Litigation SupportIdentify situations requiring judicial intervention due to delays, denials, or failure to comply with QME recommendationsPrepare and file:Declarations of Readiness to Proceed (DORs)Status conference and expedited hearing requestsDiscovery-related petitions and supporting documentationAssist attorneys and hearing representatives with hearing preparationClient CommunicationEducate clients on the importance of obtaining records and completing diagnostic testingCoordinate scheduling and provide appointment remindersDocument all client communications in the case management systemWe care about who you are as much as what you know. The strongest candidates for this role are:Natural leaders — you train, coach, and support teammates and set the standard for qualityDetail-obsessed — you catch the missing record before the QME does, and you catch it in an audit before it becomes a problemDeadline-driven — you manage time, track every outstanding item, and follow up without being remindedClient-focused — you explain the process clearly and keep injured workers informed and on schedulePersistent communicators — you negotiate with defense, providers, and vendors and don't let requests go unansweredCritical thinkers — you analyze medical records and know when a delay calls for litigationAccountable owners — you take full ownership of your cases and see them throughRequired:3+ years of California workers' compensation paralegal experience, including significant post-QME/AME workExperience training, mentoring, or leading other paralegals or case staffIn-depth knowledge of QME/AME regulations, discovery, and WCAB litigation practicesExperience preparing subpoenas and filing documents such as DORs through EAMSStrong written and verbal communication skillsProficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Teams) and case management systemsAbility to work independently and stay productive in a remote environmentReliable high-speed internet and a quiet, private workspacePreferred:Applicant-side workers' compensation experiencePrior lead, senior, or supervisory paralegal roleExperience with case audits, quality assurance, or metric reportingExperience coordinating diagnostic testing and working with utilization reviewFamiliarity with medical terminology and medical record analysisBilingual in English and Spanish a plusTimely procurement and submission of QME-requested recordsPrompt coordination of diagnostic studies and follow-up appointmentsConsistent communication with clients, providers, defense counsel, and vendorsAccurate and timely filing of DORs and other litigation documents when disputes ariseEffective management of case deadlines and outstanding action itemsTeam performance against weekly metrics and audit resultsSuccessful onboarding and development of new team membersComplete and accurate case documentation in the firm's case management systemAdditional InformationCompetitive pay: $28-33 hourly, based on experienceComprehensive benefits: health insurance and retirement plansRoom to grow: real opportunities for professional development and career advancementA supportive culture: a team built on collaboration, integrity, and excellent client service Meaningful work: help injured workers get the care and support they deserveDepartment: Workers' CompensationEmployment Type: Full TimeLocation: CaliforniaWorkplace type: Remote/HybridCompensation: 28 - 33 hourly, based on experience