what is an underwriter?
As an underwriter, your role is to assess the risks associated with various business decisions. For example, you evaluate loan applications by reviewing data and information on the applicant's employment history, among other factors. You consider the duration of their employment to determine their ability to repay the loan. If an applicant has a stable income from working full-time in a thriving mining company, they are likely to be a low-risk borrower.
In addition to evaluating loan applications, underwriters also assess risks related to other business decisions. For instance, when a company plans to go public, an underwriter evaluates the potential risks and benefits. As an underwriter, you may specialise in specific areas such as mortgage, insurance, or business underwriting. To provide expert services, you need specialised knowledge in your industry. Based on your expertise, you accept or deny risks associated with the company.
view vacanciesaverage underwriter salary
If you work as an underwriter, you can expect to earn a yearly salary of $80,000. For those just starting out, the entry-level salary is $70,000 per year. However, with more experience and qualifications, your earnings can increase to over $90,000 annually. The amount you earn will depend on the industry you work in and your level of credentials.
how to increase the salary of an underwriter
As an underwriter, the companies you work for and the industry you work in may affect your salary. For example, if you work for mortgage lenders and banks, your earnings will differ from those of underwriters who work for businesses and private equity firms. Your level of income depends on the level of risk you are dealing with. If you review loan applications for businesses, you are likely to earn more than if you review loans for individuals.
Your qualifications and work experience also play a role in determining your salary. If you are new to the field, you will earn a lower salary. However, as your experience and skills improve, you can negotiate a higher salary. Your location can also impact your earnings. Working in metropolitan areas can give you better pay since these areas have a higher demand for underwriters.
types of underwriters
Some of the types of underwriters include:
- equity underwriters: as an equity underwriter, your responsibility is to oversee the issuance and distribution of company stocks. You play a crucial role in determining the price at which shares will be issued when a company transitions from private to publicly traded. Your expertise is also needed in analysing the initial public offering value and assessing demand for the stock.
- insurance underwriters: as an insurance underwriter, you evaluate the risk an applicant implies. If the chances favour the insurer, you accept the application and outline the guidelines for the applicant. You also review claims submitted by policyholders. You determine the claim's legitimacy and the appropriate coverage amount based on your evaluation.
- mortgage underwriters: as an underwriter, you evaluate mortgage applications to determine the risks. For instance, you assess the repayment history, debt-to-income ratio and credit exposure.
- debt security underwriters: as an underwriter, you buy debt instruments like municipal and corporate bonds and sell them to other entities. You sell the debt instruments on behalf of the client at a profit.
working as an underwriter
If you want to work as an underwriter, explore the duties, responsibilities and work environments associated with the role.
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underwriter job description
Some of the duties and responsibilities of underwriters include:
- reviewing applications: as an underwriter, you analyse and evaluate applications for financial services. You gather the information showing the level of risks to determine whether to approve or decline the loan applications. After reviewing an application, you approve it or decide if you need more information.
- calculating risk: as an underwriter, you collect statistical data to highlight the level of risks. If a borrower or a client applies for insurance coverage, you evaluate the level of risk presented by the insurance policy. You use the information and statistical formulas to determine the level of risk.
- researching to evaluate an application: when evaluating an application, you conduct additional research. For instance, you evaluate the driving experience of a car owner before awarding insurance coverage or check if the applicant is employed full-time before approving a loan. The research helps you weigh the risks associated with offering the financial product to the client.
- determining the available coverage: as an underwriter, you help the insurance company determine the coverage they can offer clients. You evaluate the risks associated with the policy and determine the premiums to be paid. You also dictate the terms attached to the policy and the conditions your company is willing to fulfil by accepting the risk.
- reviewing existing client portfolios: as an underwriter, your job is to ensure that the mortgage lender can afford to offer the loan and that the insurance company covers the risk insured.
- counselling clients on risk management solutions: as an underwriter, you assist businesses in making sound investment decisions. You negotiate terms and contracts for selling or buying equities and securities.
• counselling clients on risk management solutions: as an underwriter, you assist businesses in making sound investment decisions. You negotiate terms and contracts for selling or buying equities and securities.
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work environment
Underwriters typically work in an office setting. The role involves sitting for extended periods. You spend most of the day analysing data on a computer. You also interact with insurance agents, either in person or over the phone. You only travel when attending business events or meetings. As an underwriter, you are likely to work with insurance agencies, credit unions, banks and investment companies.
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who are your colleagues?
Depending on your employer and the industry you work in, your colleagues might include financial accountants, financial advisors, finance managers and financial analysts. You might also be working in close proximity to insurance brokers and credit officers. Other specialists you work with could include, but not be limited to, lending managers, accountants and data analysts.
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work schedule
The typical work schedule of an underwriter is 35 to 40 hours in a full-time position. You work standard business hours, from 9 am to 5 pm. Occasionally, you work evenings and weekends to meet deadlines or attend important client meetings. Some underwriters only work part-time or have work-from-home arrangements, enabling them to review applications remotely.
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job outlook
You have numerous opportunities for career growth as an underwriter. You can pursue other careers, like becoming an insurance broker or agent. Some underwriters become actuaries, while others become financial advisors or financial analysts. With experience and qualifications, you can join managerial positions in the company.
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advantages of finding an underwriter job through randstad
Finding your underwriter job through Randstad provides essential benefits such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as an underwriter is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Thousands of people earn a permanent contract every year with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too.
education and skills
Some of the academic requirements for working as an underwriter include:
- academic qualification: while educational qualifications are not compulsory, boost your chances of landing employment with a relevant qualification. Complete a vocational education and training like Certificate IV in general insurance.
- work experience: to work as an underwriter, you require experience. Choose your area of expertise and gain relevant industry experience. If you want to broaden your financial risk assessment options, complete a relevant bachelor's degree in business and major in financial risk management.
underwriter skills and competencies
Some of the qualities of an underwriter include:
- computer skills: as an underwriter, you perform complex statistical analysis requiring computer software knowledge. Every industry has specific software for underwriters to use in statistical analysis. It helps to know spreadsheet software and other complex statistical tools.
- analytical skills: as an underwriter, you require exceptional analytical skills to determine an applicant’s risks. With analytical skills, you examine every factor and assess applications appropriately before determining whether to approve or reject them.
- mathematical skills: as an underwriter, you require an aptitude for maths. While the computation is done using computers, your maths skills help you verify the accuracy of the computations and make informed decisions. Your aptitude for maths also helps you determine the appropriate rate for insurance claims and the premiums that clients should pay.
- communication skills: as an underwriter, you liaise with various professionals to make informed decisions. You require communication skills to communicate with stakeholders. It is vital to ask the right questions and talk to clients professionally and respectfully. Sometimes, you negotiate with customers, which requires confidence and exceptional communication ability.
FAQs about working as a maths teacher
Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of an underwriter.
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what is the main responsibility of an underwriter?
As an underwriter, you determine whether a lender should offer a loan to the borrower. You also decide if the insurance company can provide insurance coverage. When a client makes a mortgage application, you evaluate the risks presented and decide whether to offer them the loan or reject the application.
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how much does an underwriter earn?
As an underwriter, your typical salary is $80,000 per year. When you are new in the role, your starting salary is $70,000 annually. With experience and additional qualifications, you are likely to earn over $90,000 yearly. The remuneration package depends on your company and the insurance or loan products you deal with.
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how do I become an underwriter?
To become an underwriter, relevant educational qualifications are an absolute necessity. A Certificate IV in general insurance is a solid foundation to begin with. If you're keen on pursuing further education, acquiring a bachelor's degree in business with a specific focus on financial risk management is highly recommended. It's important to note that some industries may consider equivalent experience in the financial, banking, or insurance sectors.
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what does an insurance underwriter do?
As an insurance underwriter, your role is to assess and analyse the risks associated with insuring individuals and property. This includes determining appropriate rates for insurable risks and assisting the insurance provider in determining which claims to pay out to clients.
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what qualities does an underwriter need?
To effectively offer loans and insurance products, you must possess outstanding analytical skills for risk evaluation, as well as strong communication skills for negotiating contracts and agreements with stakeholders.
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how do I apply for an underwriter vacancy?
Applying for an underwriter job job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers for vacancies in your area. Then send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here.