Underwriting Operations Specialist at First Chicago Insurance Company in Bedford Park, IL, USA

Job description

• First Chicago Insurance Company is seeking an Underwriting Operations Specialist to join our growing organization! The Underwriting Operations Specialist supports the Underwriting Operations Manager in the administration, enhancement, and execution of operational processes within the Underwriting Department. This role works closely with the Manager to improve efficiency, compliance, workflow effectiveness, and system performance across underwriting operations.
• The Specialist assists with operational audits, vendor management, technology initiatives, data analysis, training development, process documentation, and implementation of new underwriting tools and procedures. The position serves as a key resource for identifying operational trends, supporting compliance efforts, and ensuring consistent execution of underwriting processes while collaborating with Underwriting, Claims, Marketing, IT, and other departments.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Underwriting Operations Manager to support operational initiatives, process improvements, and departmental projects.
• Assist in identifying opportunities to utilize artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and technology solutions to improve underwriting efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.
• Support the testing, implementation, and maintenance of underwriting systems, workflows, and operational enhancements.
• Collaborate with the Underwriting Quality Assurance (QA) team to document business requirements, conduct testing, and validate process improvements.
• Participate in change management activities, including communications, training coordination, and adoption support for new systems and procedures.
• Conduct reviews of underwriting policies, transactions, and claims to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare reports, analyses, and recommendations to support underwriting leadership decision-making.
• Assist in developing and maintaining training materials, job aids, reference guides, and educational resources for Underwriting, Claims, Marketing, and Independent Agents.
• Perform compliance-related audits and quality reviews to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, company guidelines, and underwriting standards.
• Support monitoring and analysis of underwriting vendor performance, utilization, service levels, and cost effectiveness.
• Assist with evaluating data sources, tools, and operational solutions through research and cost-benefit analysis.
• Partner with underwriting, claims, IT, and other business units to resolve operational issues and improve workflow efficiencies.
• Maintain accurate operational documentation, procedures, and process maps.
• Compile and track key performance indicators (KPIs), audit results, vendor metrics, and operational outcomes.
• Assist with special projects, system conversions, regulatory initiatives, and cross-functional business efforts as assigned.
• Provide operational support and guidance to underwriting staff regarding procedures, systems, and best practices.
• Serve as a backup resource for critical operational functions within the Underwriting Department.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in business, Insurance, Risk Management, or a related field preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in insurance operations, underwriting, policy administration, or related insurance functions.
• Working knowledge of personal auto insurance underwriting principles, processes, and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with operational reporting, audits, process improvement, or quality assurance activities preferred.
• Ability to exercise sound judgement when handling confidential, compliance-sensitive, and/or operationally sensitive information
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify trends and recommend practical solutions.
• Experience supporting system implementations, workflow enhancements, or technology initiatives is preferred.
• Ability to learn and utilize AI and automation tools to support operational objectives.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with external vendors.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and reporting tools.
• Demonstrated attention to detail, accuracy, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Skills

Required

• Strong organizational skills

Benefits

• First Chicago Insurance Company provides a competitive benefits package to all full-time employees. Following are some of the perks First Chicago employees receive:
• Competitive Salaries
• Commitment to your Training & Development
• Medical, Dental and Vision Reimbursement
• Short Term Disability/Long Term Disability
• Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Telemedicine Benefit
• 401(k) with a generous company match
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Wellness Program
• Fun company sponsored events
• And so much more!
• *Published ranges are estimates. Offered compensation will be based on experience, skills, education, certifications, and geographic location.