Underwriter 1 (Trainee/Workers Compensation)

Walnut Creek, California
Underwriting – California /
Non-Exempt /
Hybrid
BASIC FUNCTION
Upon successful completion of training, the Underwriter 1 will apply basic underwriting concepts and best practices in evaluating new and renewal business in accordance with established guidelines and aide senior members in developing and maintaining agency relationships. This will involve evaluating policy endorsements, executing policy transactions with accuracy, and providing superb customer service. This individual will be expected to continue to build on industry knowledge and accounts will increase in number and complexity.

ONSITE REQUIREMENT
This is a hybrid opportunity, requiring initial onsite training and, upon successful completion of same, a minimum requirement of three days per work week in our Walnut Creek, CA office; Wednesday being a required all-hands Collaboration Day.

TEAMWORK RESPONSIBILITIES
Relies primarily on instruction, pre-established guidelines, and judgment to perform the functions of the job and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks directly under the supervision of designated team members as well as autonomously, with proficiency. Works under direct supervision. Possesses strong verbal and written communication skills with internal and external customers and collaboration with peers in an effort to provide the highest level of service. Executes responsibilities professionally and in accordance with the Company’s policies and applicable laws

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

    • Successfully completes the Underwriting training curriculum, introducing workers compensation law, rating and pricing regulations, negotiation techniques, and service standards.
    • Reviews applications for insurance coverage proficiently, ensuring applicable information is accurate and complete for pricing determination. Works with the Underwriting Support Specialist team to gather appropriate information needed and reaches out to agency partners to request any additional information required.
    • Analyzes current and prospective policyholders to determine appropriate quotation, indication or declination of policy. Communicates pricing within a predetermined authority level to brokers and producers using industry standards and proprietary software and databases. Ensures profitability and new business goals are met.
    • Makes prompt, sound decisions on issues that arise in submissions based on the best information available. Properly escalates issues timely to Supervisor.
    • Coordinates with Underwriting Support Specialists to bind agreed upon policies.  Prepares Loss Control requests for appropriate accounts.
    • Communicates effectively with external clientele and internal resource partners telephonically, via electronic correspondence and if appropriate, in the field. Contributes to productive agency relationships and client retention. Ensures deadlines are met and prompt response is provided.
    •  Accompanies other Underwriters and Marketing Managers to agency visits aimed at learning and promoting improved agency relationships.
    • Performs special assignments and projects as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS

    • EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is required.
    • LANGUAGE ABILITY: Able to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures and governmental regulations. Able to write detailed reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals. Able to effectively present information to management and public groups.
    • MATH ABILITY: Able to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference. Able to apply concepts such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
    • REASONING ABILITY: Able to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Able to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
    • COMPUTER SKILLS: To perform this job successfully, the individual should be proficient on the Microsoft Office Suite and able to quickly master proprietary and vended software applications.
In accordance with the California Equal Pay Act, the starting hourly wage for this job is $31.7308. This hourly wage is what the employer reasonably expects to pay for the position based on potential employee qualifications, operational needs and other considerations consistent with applicable law. The pay scale applies only to this position and only if it is filled in California. The pay scale may be different for other positions or in other locations.