What are the responsibilities and job description for the Farm Field Inspection Specialist position at FMNE Insurance Company?
FMNE Insurance is seeking a Farm Field Inspection Specialist to join our Reunderwriting department. This position offers flexibility to work from our Kearney, Norfolk, or Columbus district office. We’re looking for someone who understands farming and enjoys getting out in the field to assess properties firsthand. The right person will be observant, organized, and comfortable working independently while building relationships and providing sound risk recommendations to our underwriting and agency partners.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Please submit a resume and cover letter for consideration.
We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health coverage, a generous 401(k), pension plan, wellness programs, a company vehicle, and a hybrid work model for eligible employees.
Role Overview of a Farm Field Inspection Specialist:
The Farm Field Inspection Specialist conducts on-site inspections of farm and rural properties to evaluate risk, verify underwriting information, and recommend appropriate underwriting actions. This position serves as an advisor to underwriting and agency partners by providing risk assessment, loss prevention, and to make sure the FMNE farm portfolio aligns with established underwriting guidelines and risk appetites.
Responsibilities:
Leadership & Team Management
- Serve as a resource for underwriters and agents on farm property exposures and agricultural operations.
New Business Underwriting and Reunderwriting Risk Assessment
- Identify policies for Reunderwriting inspections.
- Partner with underwriters on complex or large farm risks.
- Assist underwriting with investigations involving unusual risks or large property values.
- Recommend underwriting actions.
Field Reunderwriting & Risk Assessment
- Conduct on-site inspections of new and existing farm accounts.
- Evaluate dwellings, farm buildings, equipment and liability exposures.
- Assess property condition, construction quality, and maintenance to identify hazards that may increase the likelihood of loss.
- Measure and photograph dwellings, buildings and bin structures.
- Prepare inspection reports relating to findings and recommendations for insurance.
- Evaluate insurance value for dwellings, buildings and bins.
Collaboration & Business Impact
- Partner with the Farm Risk Specialist to underwrite large farm risks.
- Educate policyholders and agents on risk mitigation best practices.
- Recommend corrective actions and loss control improvements that assist in reducing future losses.
Operational Effectiveness
- Maintain inspection schedules and complete reports within established service standards.
- Effectively manage field territory and travel to maximize inspection productivity.
- Utilize technology and inspection tools to accurately document exposures and communicate findings.
Administrative Responsibilities
- Complete inspection documentation within required timelines.
- Perform additional duties as needed to support departmental and organizational goals.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Agribusiness, Animal Science, Risk Management, Insurance, or related field preferred.
- Strong understanding of farm operations and agricultural risks.
- 3–5 years of experience in:
- Farm insurance underwriting
- Agricultural operations
- Loss control
- Property inspections
- Knowledge of personal farm insurance products preferred.
- Valid driver's license and clean driving record with the ability to travel extensively within assigned territory.
- Excellent customer service and relationship building skills.
- Strong analytical and decision-making skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and mobile inspection technology.
- Ability to interpret aerial imagery, mapping tools, and property data.
- Proficiency with Guidewire or similar policy administration systems.
- Professional designations (e.g., CPCU, ARM, AIC) or progress toward completion a plus.
- Effective communication, collaboration, and influencing skills across cross-functional stakeholders.
FMNE Insurance Company recognizes that an individual with a disability may require accommodation to enable them to successfully perform a job function. Should you require such accommodation, please indicate the job function and suggested accommodation during the interview process. FMNE will attempt to make reasonable accommodation.