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Catastrophe Modeling Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Catastrophe Modeling information

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$21

$39

$75

How much do catastrophe modeling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for catastrophe modeling in Virginia is $39.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.96 and $43.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in catastrophe modeling, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in catastrophe modeling often encounter challenges such as managing large and complex datasets, staying current with emerging risks (like climate change), and communicating technical findings to non-technical stakeholders. Addressing these requires strong analytical skills, ongoing professional development, and effective collaboration with underwriters, actuaries, and risk managers. Building expertise in specialized software and maintaining open communication channels with other teams can help overcome these obstacles and contribute to successful risk assessments.

What is catastrophe modeling?

Catastrophe modeling is the process of using computer models to estimate the potential losses that could result from natural or man-made disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, or terrorist attacks. These models analyze historical data, scientific research, and current exposure information to predict the likelihood and potential severity of catastrophic events. Insurers, reinsurers, and other organizations use catastrophe modeling to assess risk, price insurance policies, and prepare for possible large-scale losses.

How to get a job in catastrophe modeling?

The qualifications you need to obtain a job in catastrophe modeling include a bachelor’s degree in a science field related to catastrophes, such as geology, meteorology, or environmental science. Insurance-specific degrees, such as actuarial sciences, are also acceptable. Advanced degrees in actuarial science, math, or another catastrophe-related field may help you stand out in the job market. Practice using industry software to run data analysis to become proficient with the application. Some start their careers in entry-level positions in the insurance industry to learn about risk evaluation before moving into catastrophe modeling.

What is the difference between Catastrophe Modeling vs Actuary?

AspectCatastrophe ModelingActuary
Required CredentialsTypically requires degrees in risk management, insurance, or related fields; certifications like CPCU or ARM are commonRequires a degree in mathematics, statistics, or actuarial science; professional actuarial certifications (e.g., ASA, FSA) are essential
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in insurance, reinsurance, or risk management firms; involves data analysis and modelingIn insurance companies, consulting firms, or government agencies; involves data analysis, financial modeling, and risk assessment
Industry UsageUsed to assess and quantify natural disaster risks for insurance underwriting and risk managementUsed to evaluate financial risks, reserve calculations, and pricing in insurance and pension industries

While both roles involve risk analysis and data modeling, catastrophe modeling focuses specifically on natural disaster risks, whereas actuaries assess a broader range of financial risks. Both careers require strong quantitative skills and work within the insurance industry, but their specific applications and certifications differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a catastrophe modeler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Catastrophe Modeler, you need a strong background in mathematics, statistics, and data analysis, typically supported by a degree in engineering, actuarial science, or a related field. Proficiency in modeling software (such as RMS or AIR), programming languages (like Python or R), and familiarity with GIS systems are commonly required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for interpreting data and conveying risk insights to stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are crucial for producing accurate risk assessments that inform insurance, reinsurance, and disaster preparedness strategies.

How much do catastrophe modeling professionals make?

Catastrophe modeling professionals typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in risk analysis and modeling tools can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.

What do catastrophe modeling professionals do?

Catastrophe modeling professionals analyze data to assess the financial impact of natural and man-made disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods. They develop models using specialized software to estimate potential losses for insurance companies and other stakeholders, often requiring skills in statistics, risk assessment, and data analysis.

What are the most commonly searched types of Catastrophe Modeling jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Catastrophe Modeling jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Catastrophe Modeling jobs in Virginia?

For Catastrophe Modeling jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Catastrophe Modeling jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Catastrophe Modeling jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Catastrophe Modeling job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,176 per year, or $40 per hour.

Reinsurance Placement Analyst / Sr. Reinsurance Placement Analyst

Markel Corporation

Richmond, VA • On-site

$78K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Markel rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 308 rated insurance


Job description

What part will you play? If you're looking for a place where you can make a meaningful difference, you've found it.
The work we do at Markel gives people the confidence to move forward and seize opportunities, and you'll find your fit amongst our global community of optimists and problem-solvers. We're always pushing each other to go further because we believe that when we realize our potential, we can help others reach theirs.Join us and play your part in something special!This role is part of the Ceded Reinsurance Placement team and is responsible for multiple treaty placements annually across various product lines, with full ownership of assigned reinsurance placements.
Job Responsibilities
  • Lead or assist with ceded reinsurance placements across product lines, including structuring, placement, and administration.
  • Partner with underwriting leadership to align reinsurance strategies with product offerings.
  • Build and maintain relationships with reinsurers and brokers.
  • Manage placement timelines and ensure timely, well-communicated renewals.
  • Ensure compliance with approved reinsurer lists and required documentation.
  • Coordinate and lead underwriting and/or claims audits.
  • Prepare submissions, including product overviews, contract wording, and data requirements.
  • Collaborate with Data & Analytics to validate data and identify trends.
  • Manage reinsurer inquiries and coordinate internal responses.
  • Ensure contracts reflect agreed terms, meet standards, and are executed on time.
  • Maintain compliance documentation (Risk Transfer, SOX, regulatory).
  • Prepare post-placement materials (treaty summaries, schematics, executive summaries).
  • Support internal education on reinsurance structures and strategy.
  • Update systems to support reporting and digitization.
  • Stay current on contract wording, regulatory changes, and market practices with Legal.
  • Partner with accounting/processing teams to ensure accurate treaty implementation.
  • Participate in special projects as needed.

Education
  • Bachelor's degree required

Certifications
  • ARE, CPCU, ARM preferred

Work Experience
  • Analyst: 3-5 years in insurance/reinsurance or broking preferred
  • Senior Analyst: 5+ years in insurance/reinsurance required
  • 1-2 years of reinsurance contract wording experience preferred at analyst level
  • 5+ years of reinsurance contract wording experience preferred at sr. analyst level
  • Title based on experience level

Core Competencies
  • Strong communication, customer service, and organizational skills
  • Analytical knowledge of insurance, reinsurance accounting, and actuarial concepts
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and reporting tools
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and improve processes across teams
  • Understanding of reinsurance structures (XOL, RPP, Aggregate, QS) and contract wording
  • Catastrophe modeling knowledge preferred
  • Highly organized and deadline-driven

Work Environment
  • 5-15% travel depending on role and treaty placement needs

#LI-SP
US Work Authorization
US Work Authorization required. Markel does not provide visa sponsorship for this position, now or in the future.
Pay information:
The base salary offered for the successful candidate will be based on compensable factors such as job-relevant education, job-relevant experience, training, licensure, demonstrated competencies, geographic location, and other factors. The national average salary range for the Reinsurance Placement Analyst is $62,400 - $85,800 with 12% incentive and the national average salary range for the Sr. Reinsurance Placement Analyst is $78,000 - $107,250 with 15% incentive.
Who we are:
Markel Group (NYSE - MKL) a fortune 500 company with over 60 offices in 20+ countries, is a holding company for insurance, reinsurance, specialist advisory and investment operations around the world.
We're all about people | We win together | We strive for better
We enjoy the everyday | We think further
What's in it for you:
In keeping with the values of the Markel Style, we strive to support our employees in living their lives to the fullest at home and at work.
  • We offer competitive benefit programs that help meet our diverse and changing environment as well as support our employees' needs at all stages of life.

  • All full-time employees have the option to select from multiple health, dental and vision insurance plan options and optional life, disability, and AD&D insurance.

  • We also offer a 401(k) with employer match contributions, an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, PTO, corporate holidays and floating holidays, parental leave.

Are you ready to play your part?
Choose 'Apply Now' to fill out our short application, so that we can find out more about you.
Caution: Employment scams
Markel is aware of employment-related scams where scammers will impersonate recruiters by sending fake job offers to those actively seeking employment in order to steal personal information. Frequently, the scammer will reach out to individuals who have posted their resume online. These "job offers" include convincing offer letters and frequently ask for confidential personal information. Therefore, for your safety, please note that:
  • All legitimate job postings with Markel will be posted on Markel Careers. No other URL should be trusted for job postings.

  • All legitimate communications with Markel recruiters will come from Markel.com email addresses.

We would also ask that you please report any job employment scams related to Markel to rarecruiting@markel.com.
Markel is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of any protected characteristic. This includes race; color; sex; religion; creed; national origin or place of birth; ancestry; age; disability; affectional or sexual orientation; gender expression or identity; genetic information, sickle cell trait, or atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait; refusal to submit to genetic tests or make genetic test results available; medical condition; citizenship status; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; marital status, civil union status, domestic partnership status, familial status, or family responsibilities; military or veteran status, including unfavorable discharge from military service; personal appearance, height, or weight; matriculation or political affiliation; expunged juvenile records; arrest and court records where prohibited by applicable law; status as a victim of domestic or sexual violence; public assistance status; order of protection status; status as a smoker or nonsmoker; membership or activity in local commissions; the use or nonuse of lawful products off employer premises during non-work hours; declining to attend meetings or participate in communications about religious or political matters; or any other classification protected by applicable law.
Should you require any accommodation through the application process, please send an e-mail to the rarecruiting@markel.com.
No agencies please.

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