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Associate Underwriter Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

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Associate Underwriter information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$32K

$77.8K

$137.6K

How much do associate underwriter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate underwriter in Waterloo, IA is $77,778.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,100.00 and $85,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate underwriter do?

An Associate Underwriter assists in evaluating and analyzing the risks involved in insuring people and assets. They typically review applications, examine supporting documents, and help determine the appropriate coverage and premiums under the supervision of a senior underwriter. This role often involves data entry, risk assessment, and communication with agents or brokers. Associate Underwriters are essential in ensuring that insurance policies are issued in accordance with company guidelines and industry regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate underwriter?

To thrive as an Associate Underwriter, you need a strong understanding of risk assessment, analytical abilities, and a bachelor's degree in finance, business, or a related field. Familiarity with underwriting software, statistical analysis tools, and knowledge of industry regulations are commonly required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and time management are vital soft skills for excelling in this position. These skills are important for making sound risk decisions, ensuring compliance, and supporting the overall profitability of the organization.

What are some common challenges faced by associate underwriters, and how can they be addressed?

Associate Underwriters often encounter challenges such as balancing workload during peak periods, ensuring accuracy in risk assessments, and adapting to evolving underwriting guidelines. Effective time management and strong organizational skills can help manage a high volume of applications. Additionally, staying current with industry regulations and seeking guidance from senior underwriters or mentors can enhance decision-making skills and confidence in evaluating complex cases.

What is the difference between Associate Underwriter vs Underwriting Assistant?

AspectAssociate UnderwriterUnderwriting Assistant
CredentialsBachelor's degree often required; industry certifications beneficialHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer associate's degree
Work EnvironmentAnalyzing risk, making underwriting decisions, collaborating with underwritersSupporting underwriting team, data entry, document management
Employer & Industry UsageInsurance companies, brokers, and underwriting firmsInsurance companies, underwriting departments, administrative support

The Associate Underwriter typically handles risk analysis and decision-making, requiring more specialized knowledge and certifications. In contrast, the Underwriting Assistant provides administrative support, focusing on data management and assisting underwriters. Both roles are essential in the underwriting process but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

How much do associate underwriters make?

Associate underwriters typically earn between $55,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and company size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced associates with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often with opportunities for bonuses and career advancement.

Is it hard to get a job in associate underwriter?

Securing an associate underwriter position typically requires relevant education, such as a degree in finance or insurance, and some industry experience or internships. Competition can vary depending on the location and company, but strong analytical skills and industry knowledge improve chances of employment.

Is it hard to get a job in associate underwriting?

Getting an associate underwriting position typically requires relevant education, such as a degree in finance or insurance, and some entry-level experience or internships. The role is competitive, but candidates with strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of underwriting software have good prospects. Certification programs like the Associate in Commercial Underwriting (ACU) can also improve chances.

Is it hard to get a job in underwriting?

Getting a job as an associate underwriter can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a degree in finance or risk management, along with strong analytical skills. Entry-level positions may be accessible with internships or certifications like the CPCU, but higher-level roles typically demand experience and industry knowledge.

What is an associate in underwriting?

An associate in underwriting is an entry- or mid-level professional who assists underwriters in evaluating insurance applications, analyzing risk factors, and preparing policy documents. They often use underwriting software and may work under the supervision of senior underwriters to develop their skills and industry knowledge.

What are the most commonly searched types of Underwriter jobs in Waterloo, IA?

The most popular types of Underwriter jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Associate Underwriter jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Associate Underwriter job openings:

Associate Underwriter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Underwriter job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,778 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Commercial Lines Producer

Patriot Growth Insurance Services, LLC

Waterloo, IA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New

Patriot Growth Insurance Services rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

223rd of 309 rated insurance

Job description

Commercial Lines Producer
PDCM | Waterloo, IA | Hybrid | Full-Time
Why This Role Matters
As a Commercial Lines Producer, you will help businesses protect their operations, assets, and future growth while driving new business opportunities for the agency. This role blends business development, client relationship management, and insurance expertise to deliver customized risk management solutions that support long-term client success.
You will serve as a trusted advisor to business owners and organizational leaders, helping them navigate complex commercial insurance needs and identify coverage strategies that align with their goals. Working alongside carriers, underwriters, and agency partners, you will have the resources and support needed to grow a strong book of business while delivering exceptional client outcomes.
How You'll Make an Impact
  • Develop new business opportunities by identifying, prospecting, and engaging commercial insurance clients through networking, referrals, research, and outreach efforts.
  • Assess client operations, exposures, and risk profiles to recommend tailored commercial insurance and risk management solutions.
  • Present comprehensive insurance programs and coverage recommendations that address client needs while supporting business growth.
  • Build and strengthen long-term client relationships to drive retention, account growth, and cross-selling opportunities.
  • Partner with carriers and underwriters to negotiate competitive coverage terms, pricing, and policy structures on behalf of clients.
  • Monitor sales performance, pipeline activity, and retention metrics to identify opportunities for continuous improvement and sustained growth.
Who You Are
  • You are a relationship-driven professional who enjoys connecting with business leaders and helping organizations manage risk effectively.
  • You approach sales consultatively, seeking to understand a client's business before recommending solutions.
  • You are proactive, self-motivated, and energized by building a book of business.
  • You stay informed on market trends, carrier offerings, and regulatory changes that impact commercial insurance clients.
  • You communicate clearly and confidently with clients, prospects, carriers, and internal stakeholders.
  • You are highly organized and capable of balancing prospecting, client service, documentation, and follow-up activities.
  • You maintain a high standard of professionalism, ethics, and confidentiality in all client interactions.
What You BringDay One:
  • Previous experience working in sales or within an insurance agency
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Ability to obtain and maintain an Iowa Property & Casualty Insurance License
  • Strong understanding of commercial insurance products, coverages, and underwriting principles
  • Proven ability to analyze client needs and recommend appropriate insurance solutions
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience building and maintaining strong client relationships
  • Proficiency with CRM systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and related business applications
  • Strong organizational, critical thinking, and project management skills
  • Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and adhering to professional and ethical standards
Valuable Additions:
  • Three or more years of sales experience within a Property & Casualty insurance agency, preferably supporting commercial lines business
  • Associate or Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or a related field
  • Demonstrated success developing and executing sales strategies that support revenue growth and client retention
  • Experience analyzing sales performance metrics and implementing process improvements
  • Active engagement in industry associations, professional development programs, or insurance-related certifications
Real Benefits for Real Life
At Patriot, great benefits mean more than coverage; they mean being there through every stage of life: your health, your family, your financial future, or simply time to recharge. Whether you're working or not, life doesn't stop. Neither should your benefits.
Highlights Include:
  • Multiple medical plan options, with preventive care covered at 100%
  • Free virtual medical and mental healthcare for employees and their families, plus a dedicated healthcare concierge to help you navigate benefits, compare prescription costs, and make more confident, personalized care decisions
  • Employer-paid short-term and long-term disability coverage
  • Paid parental leave
  • Personalized PTO that lets you take time away when you need it, without traditional accruals, plus separate sick leave
  • Competitive 401(k) company match to help you build your financial future
  • Comprehensive dental and vision coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program with confidential mental health, legal, financial, and work-life support
About Patriot Growth Insurance Services
At Patriot, we build our teams around a simple idea: people do their best work when they feel supported as whole people, not just managed as employees. We're invested in your growth, not just your output, and we back that up with a competitive salary and a comprehensive health and welfare program that extends to your family and domestic partners too, because who you're building a life with matters to us as much as the work you do.
Founded in 2019, Patriot is a growth-focused national insurance services firm that partners with employee benefits and property and casualty agencies across the United States. We're currently ranked the 25th-largest broker in the U.S. by Business Insurance and were named to the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies. With over 2,100 employees operating in 150+ locations across more than 45 states, our collaborative model gives every person and every agency the resources and support they need to grow, while each agency keeps its own identity, culture, and way of doing business. That growth has never been about numbers alone, it's about the people behind them.
About PDCM

With roots dating back more than 100 years, PDCM blends a century of experience with industry innovation to bring you a completely different approach to managing risk and insurance. Our personalized advisers use PDCM's unique Risk Reduction Approach to take a comprehensive look at our client's needs and customize a plan for their family or business. PDCM blends a century of experience with industry innovation to bring you a different approach to managing risk and insurance. Our dedication and commitment to serving the business community has enabled us to become one of the most successful independent insurance agencies and consulting firms in Iowa. PDCM is a proud partner agency of Patriot Growth Insurance Services, LLC.

Patriot Growth Insurance Services is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, and training. Patriot makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time. For more information, read through our EEO and DE&I Policy located on our website at www.patriotgis.com.

Pay Range: Posted below*
*Any job offer is based upon a salary analysis to comply with applicable state pay transparency laws, considering relevant experience, education, certifications, and seniority as compared to others doing substantially similar work. There is no guarantee an offer will be at the top of the posted range based on the salary analysis. Roles may also be eligible for a supplemental compensation, such as performance-based bonus, commission, or equity. Specific eligibility will be discussed with Talent Acquisition team.

Patriot Growth Insurance Services offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401(k) with company match; personalized time off and company paid holidays.

Pay Range
$55,000—$60,000 USD

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