Post-QME Paralegal - Workers' Compensation

Job Description

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Post-QME Paralegal plays a critical role in advancing workers’ compensation cases following Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) examinations. You’ll obtain and submit medical records, coordinate diagnostic testing, secure treatment and diagnostic authorizations, communicate with clients and medical providers, and take appropriate legal action when delays or disputes arise.

This is a full-time, remote role for someone who is highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive — and who knows California workers’ compensation procedures, including QME regulations and WCAB litigation practices. If you take ownership of your cases and don’t let a stalled authorization sit, we want to meet you.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

You’ll own the post-QME stage of your caseload, making sure every record, study, and authorization the evaluator needs gets done. Your responsibilities will include:

Medical Record Procurement & Submission

• Review QME report data and identify all outstanding records requested by the evaluator
• Contact clients to determine where they have treated and gather provider, facility, and treatment history information
• Request, obtain, organize, and submit medical records to QMEs and AMEs
• Track outstanding record requests and follow up with providers to ensure timely receipt
• Maintain accurate documentation of all requests, communications, and submissions in the case management system

Subpoenas & Discovery

• Prepare and process subpoenas for medical, employment, wage, and other relevant records
• Coordinate service of subpoenas and monitor compliance
• Review subpoena responses for completeness and identify missing records requiring follow-up
• Assist in obtaining declarations and supporting documentation for discovery disputes

Diagnostic Testing Coordination

• Review QME recommendations for diagnostic studies, including:
  • MRI scans, X-rays, and CT scans
  • EMG/NCV studies
  • Laboratory testing and other specialty diagnostic evaluations
• Request authorization status and vendor information from defense counsel, claims administrators, and utilization review departments
• Coordinate appointments with approved diagnostic vendors and facilities
• Communicate appointment details to clients and ensure attendance
• Obtain completed diagnostic reports and submit them to the appropriate physicians and parties

Defense Communication & Follow-Up

• Communicate with defense counsel and insurance representatives regarding outstanding authorizations, records, and diagnostic testing
• Monitor deadlines and follow up on unanswered requests
• Escalate unresolved issues when authorizations, records, or diagnostic studies are delayed
• Prepare correspondence demanding compliance with QME recommendations and discovery obligations

WCAB Litigation Support

• Identify situations requiring judicial intervention due to delays, denials, or failure to comply with QME recommendations
• Prepare and file:
  • Declarations of Readiness to Proceed (DORs)
  • Status conference and expedited hearing requests
  • Discovery-related petitions and supporting documentation
• Assist attorneys and hearing representatives with hearing preparation

Client Communication

• Educate clients on the importance of obtaining records and completing diagnostic testing
• Coordinate scheduling and provide appointment reminders
• Document all client communications in the case management system

WHO YOU ARE

We care about who you are as much as what you know. The strongest candidates for this role are:

• Detail-obsessed — you catch the missing record before the QME does
• Deadline-driven — you manage time, track every outstanding item, and follow up without being reminded
• Client-focused — you explain the process clearly and keep injured workers informed and on schedule
• Persistent communicators — you negotiate with defense, providers, and vendors and don’t let requests go unanswered
• Critical thinkers — you analyze medical records and know when a delay calls for litigation
• Accountable owners — you take full ownership of your cases and see them through

Qualifications

Required:

• 1+ years of California workers’ compensation paralegal or case management experience
• Working knowledge of QME/AME procedures and WCAB litigation practices
• Experience preparing subpoenas and filing documents such as DORs through EAMS
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Teams) and case management systems
• Ability to work independently and stay productive in a remote environment
• Reliable high-speed internet and a quiet, private workspace

Preferred:

• Applicant-side workers’ compensation experience
• Experience coordinating diagnostic testing and working with utilization review
• Familiarity with medical terminology and medical record analysis
• Bilingual in English and Spanish a plus

Additional Information

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay: Hourly rate $25-27, based on experience
• Comprehensive benefits: health insurance and retirement plans
• Room to grow: real opportunities for professional development and career advancement
• A supportive culture: a team built on collaboration, integrity, and excellent client service 
• Meaningful work: help injured workers get the care and support they deserve

Department

Workers' Compensation

Employment Type

Full Time

Location

California

Workplace type

Remote/Hybrid

Compensation

25 - 27 hourly, based on experience

#ZR

Compensation: 25 to 27 (USD) (HOURLY)