Associate Underwriter in at Utica First Insurance Company

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.