Job Description
Job Title
Associate Underwriter
Position Type
Full-time / Salary
Location
Southfield, MI
Department
Underwriting
Reporting To
Underwriting Department Manager
About DealerGuard
DealerGuard is a full service Managing General Agency owned and operated by Amwins Program Underwriters, a wholly owned subsidiary of AmWINS Group, Inc., the nation’s largest wholesale broker. Amwins Program Underwriters operates as an integral part of AmWINS’ Underwriting division and specializes in offering retail agents an array of P&C programs for specific product lines, industry segments, and business types.
The DealerGuard Program markets, underwrites, and administers dealers open lot insurance for franchised and independent auto dealers, dealer associations, and the lending institutions “banks” that finance dealer floorplans. Dealers open lot coverage is first-party insurance that protects inventory held for sale from direct physical loss or direct physical damage caused by a covered peril.
DealerGuard’s staff of subject matter experts, are organized into three separate departments: underwriting, claims, and insurance tracking. While separate and distinct, these departments work as a cohesive unit to deliver on DealerGuard’s core value proposition of offering a marketable and sustainable first-party property insurance solution that exceeds the expectations of each of its stakeholders: the insured, agent/broker, and insurance company.
JOB SUMMARY
As an integral member of the Underwriting Team, the Associate Underwriter supports both new and renewal business by evaluating risk, managing small accounts, and assisting with technical aspects of the underwriting process. This role emphasizes analytical review, collaboration, and compliance, while providing exceptional service to agents and internal stakeholders.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Risk Evaluation & Analysis:
- Review and underwrite assigned lines of coverage and small accounts within authority limits.
- Analyze applicant data, including financials, loss history, and exposure trends, to inform underwriting decisions and pricing strategies.
Policy & Endorsement Management:
- Prepare and authorize endorsements, quotations, and proposals as needed.
- Process conditional renewal and non-renewal notices.
- Assist in binding acknowledgements and policy issuance.
Documentation & Compliance:
- Maintain accurate underwriting and policy files, ensuring compliance with company guidelines and regulatory requirements.
- Update program databases with status and exposure information.
Collaboration & Communication:
- Liaise with agents, brokers, senior underwriters, risk management teams, and claims personnel to gather required information and resolve outstanding items.
- Respond promptly and professionally to phone, email, and fax correspondence.
Professional Development:
- Engage in ongoing learning and pursue relevant insurance designations (e.g., ARM, CPCU).
- Participate in training and development opportunities to advance underwriting expertise.
Other Duties:
- Perform additional tasks as assigned to support the underwriting team and business objectives.
Qualifications
Education:
- Associate degree required; bachelor’s degree in business, finance, accounting, or related field preferred.
- Completion or active pursuit of insurance coursework/designations (Insurance 21, 22, 23; ARM, CPCU, or equivalent).
Experience:
- 2–3 years of insurance experience in a rating or associate underwriter capacity; rating experience preferred.
- Basic knowledge of commercial insurance contracts, including endorsements.
Skills:
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Effective interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and underwriting platforms.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with seasonal volume.
In-Office/Remote Work Expectations
- Expected to work in the office weekly on mutually agreed upon days, subject to strategic flexibility. Remote work considered an earned privilege, not a right. Reliable high-speed internet is required at personal cost.
Career Development
- Opportunities for advancement to full underwriting authority and senior roles.
- Support for continuing education and professional growth.
Disclaimer
The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
