Senior Assistant Underwriter - Excess & Surplus

Pay Philosophy 

The typical starting salary for this position is determined by a number of factors, including, but not limited to, acquired skills, experience, education, and certifications/designations. This position may be eligible for annual merit increases and participation in our bonus program.

 

What are we looking for?

Join our team as Senior Assistant Underwriter - Excess & Surplus. In this position, you would help facilitate the underwriting operations within a designated territory by collaborating with an Underwriter to collect information and documentation on agency submissions.

 

Who we are and what we do?

At Columbia Insurance, we believe our people are the heart of our success and our greatest strength. With robust benefits, a fun, family like atmosphere, and a culture that thrives on real connections, Columbia truly is the place to be. Our vision is to lead the industry in people first partnerships. The best way to achieve that is by bringing together a team of skilled, passionate, and talented individuals.

 

Why us?

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage

• 401(k) and company match

• Generous paid time off (PTO), paid company holidays, paid maternity/paternity leave, and supplemental sick leave

• Family like culture

• Year round wellness initiatives

• Company sponsored events

• Opportunities for professional development with conferences, events, and continued education

 

Company History

Our legacy has roots back to 1889 when we first became part of the mutual insurance movement in the Midwest. Today, our extensive heritage resonates nationwide, as we proudly serve customers in 14 states across the country.

 

BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITY

Help facilitate the underwriting operations within a designated territory by collaborating with an Underwriter to collect information and documentation on agency submissions. This role is responsible for meeting compliance and regulatory requirements, along with mentoring and developing newer Assistant Underwriters.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Gather, verify, and evaluate submission information from agency partners and other sources to support Underwriter risk assessment and decision-making, including prequalification of risks within designated authority.

• Maintain orderly and audit-compliant policy files by validating documentation accuracy and resolving discrepancies or missing information through timely coordination with agency partners and internal staff.

• Provide onboarding and development for newer assistant underwriters through mentoring and training, serving as subject matter expert for operations and processing responsibilities.

• Serve as the primary contact for designated agencies within an assigned territory promptly responding to inquiries about policies, endorsements, and other questions, while ensuring requests outside authority are escalated to the appropriate underwriting personnel.

• Execute renewal preparation activities by reviewing forthcoming renewals, updating relevant documentation, and collaborating with underwriters to request and monitor renewal submissions.

• Facilitate effective collaboration among multiple departments to ensure seamless agency interactions and a high-quality service delivery.

• Contribute to departmental evaluations and testing of new and updated procedures and software releases, offering constructive feedback regarding their functionality and operational impact.

• Engage in continuous education and pursue professional development or relevant certifications that align with the requirements of the position, such as INS, ASLI, etc.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Three or more years of experience in insurance, underwriting, or administrative support.

• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (e.g., Excel, Word, SharePoint) and ability to learn new skills/systems.

• Strong problem solving, reasoning, and decision-making skills.

• Experience training junior staff and improving workflow processes.

• Excellent attention to detail organizational skills.

• Knowledge of relevant compliance regulations.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks while meeting deadlines and quality standards.

• Team oriented with a positive attitude.

• Ability to travel up to 10%

 

 EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree strongly preferred

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with primary casualty coverage lines.

• Insurance Certification: INS 21, 22, 23 or relevant insurance coursework and/or insurance related designations such as CPCU

 

EOE

Columbia Insurance prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you are unable to complete the electronic application for any reason, please contact Meredith Craig: [email protected] 573-777-4094