Associate Underwriter

Utica First Insurance Job Description and Standard of Performance   

POSITION DESCRIPTION Associate Underwriter

Job Summary

The Commercial Lines Associate Underwriter is responsible for underwriting and managing a defined book of commercial business within assigned authority and territory. This role develops underwriting expertise while independently supporting a smaller group of agency partners, balancing risk selection, profitability, and service excellence. The Associate Underwriter works closely with underwriting leadership and senior staff as authority and complexity increase.

 Reports To: Underwriter Supervisor

 Duties/Responsibilities

• Underwriting & Risk Assessment
• Underwrite new business, renewals, endorsements, and cancellations within assigned authority
• Evaluate risk exposures, loss history, and coverage needs for small commercial accounts
• Apply underwriting guidelines, pricing tools, and risk selection standards
• Make underwriting decisions on routine risks; escalate complex or out of authority accounts as appropriate
• Accurately document underwriting decisions and rationale
• Territory & Agent Management
• Manage a defined territory and assigned agency relationships
• Serve as the primary underwriting contact for assigned agents
• Communicate underwriting decisions clearly and professionally
• Build productive working relationships while maintaining underwriting discipline
• Support agency education on appetite, guidelines, and underwriting requirements
• Portfolio Management
• Manage a small commercial book of business to support profitability, retention, and growth goals
• Monitor accounts for loss trends, exposure changes, or underwriting concerns
• Assist with renewal strategy and book management initiatives
• Identify opportunities for coverage enhancements and cross selling within authority
• Collaboration & Compliance
• Partner with Sales, Operations, and Claims to support account servicing needs
• Ensure compliance with underwriting guidelines, authority levels, and regulatory requirements
• Support underwriting audits and quality reviews
• Follow established workflows and service expectations
• Development & Progression
• Participate in underwriting training and professional development opportunities
• Expand underwriting authority and territory responsibility over time
• Stay current on market conditions, coverage changes, and underwriting practices
• All other tasks involving project work as directed by management.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Risk Management, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 1–3 years of commercial lines underwriting or insurance experience
• Experience managing agent relationships preferred

Lines of Business Knowledge

• Working knowledge of: 
• Commercial Package / BOP
• Property and General Liability
• Umbrella / Excess

Technical & Professional Skills

• Developing underwriting judgment and analytical skills
• Ability to manage a territory and agent relationships effectively
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and underwriting systems
• Clear written and verbal communication skills

Professional Development (Preferred)

• Progress toward or interest in pursuing AU, CPCU, or other underwriting designations

Core Competencies

• Independent decision making within assigned authority
• Risk evaluation and attention to detail
• Relationship management with agents
• Accountability and professionalism
• Willingness to learn and grow underwriting expertise

Physical Requirements

This position requires the ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer, both in a home and office environment. The role involves frequent use of a headset, keyboard, mouse, and other standard office equipment. Occasional movement within the office may be required, such as walking to meetings or accessing shared equipment.