Residuals Claims Representative : California

Writers Guild of America, West
 

Residuals Claims Representative

Based in Los Angeles, CA

The Residuals Department of the Writers Guild of America, West, is currently seeking qualified applicants for the position of Claims Representative. This position is a full time, non-exempt (hourly) position with excellent comprehensive benefits package. The salary range for this position begins at $54,000 annualized, commensurate with experience.

Under the supervision of the Residuals Collections Administrator, the Claims Representative is responsible for pursuing unpaid claims for residuals. The Residuals Department ensures that writers are paid residuals due under the residual provisions of the Minimum Basic Agreements from 1953 to present.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Responsible for handling multiple cases involving the collection of residuals and interest.
• Pursues cases against companies for alleged residuals violations of the collective bargaining agreement(s).
• Researches and reviews various agreements, such as writing contracts, license and distribution agreements, and assumption agreements for each case.
• Analyzes financial records and residuals history to prepare detailed Excel spreadsheets/schedules of residuals owed.
• Communicates with writers and companies throughout the investigation and resolution of the case.
• Writes demand letters and other correspondence to relevant persons to resolve claims.
• Researches and reviews chain of title and signatory information to effect service of process on respondents for cases that cannot be resolved.
• Drafts, files and serves arbitration claims/grievances.
• Writes memoranda summarizing facts and issues about claims for transfer to the Legal Services Department.
• In addition to responsibilities for assigned cases, answers inquiries from writers, rate calls, agents, attorneys, and company representatives regarding residual obligations under the MBA.
• Other duties as required.
• Some overtime may be required.

OCCUPATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Must have excellent written/verbal communication skills
• Requires the ability to confidently discuss provisions of the Basic Agreements and residuals issues with outside attorneys, studio personnel, production companies, payroll house staff, and Labor Relations executives
• Diplomacy and the ability to exercise good discretion with relevant persons regarding confidential and sensitive information are essential
• Must be able to write detailed emails, letters and memoranda and should be comfortable with all aspects of writing including drafting, proofreading, grammar and punctuation as well as proficiency at MS Word
• Must have strong Excel and math skills; this position involves preparing detailed spreadsheets to calculate residuals that accompany written requests and claims for payment
• Must be able to comprehend, analyze and interpret collective bargaining agreements, employment contracts, licensing and distribution agreements, financial statements and distribution reports
• Must be organized, good at time management, detail oriented and good at follow-through to prioritize and perform all tasks associated with assigned work and ensure responsibilities are completed on time
• Must be comfortable working in a fast-paced department with multiple heavy deadlines
• Bachelor’s degree required
• Residuals background and/or entertainment industry experience at a studio or guild preferred; paralegal certificate a plus

To Apply
Interested applicants should email cover letter and résumé to the Human Resources Department of the Writers Guild at recruitment[at]wga.org.