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Contract Underwriter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

- As a Contract Surety Underwriter, you will be responsible for development of contract surety business in a defined territory. You will play a critical role in the production and underwriting of ...

Underwrite contract surety bonds in alignment with Swiss Re Corporate Solutions Surety Group underwriting guidelines, assessing risk acceptability and strategic fit * Manage daily bid and final bond ...

Underwrite contract surety bonds in alignment with Swiss Re Corporate Solutions Surety Group underwriting guidelines, assessing risk acceptability and strategic fit * Manage daily bid and final bond ...

CA · On-site

$75K - $165K/yr

Zurich's Large Contract West Region Surety Team is looking for a motivated Contract Surety Underwriter to help us strengthen our portfolio, elevate our client relationships, and make a lasting impact ...

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Contract Underwriter information

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$32.5K

$78.9K

$139.5K

How much do contract underwriter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract underwriter in the United States is $78,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,000.00 and $87,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract underwriter?

A Contract Underwriter is a financial professional who evaluates and assesses loan applications, insurance policies, or other financial risks for a company on a contract or freelance basis. They analyze credit history, financial statements, and other relevant data to determine risk levels and ensure compliance with underwriting guidelines. Unlike in-house underwriters, they often work independently or for third-party firms, providing services to lenders or insurers as needed. Their goal is to mitigate risk while facilitating responsible lending or coverage decisions.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a contract underwriter?

As a Contract Underwriter, your typical day involves reviewing applications, evaluating potential risks, and determining appropriate terms and premiums for various contracts, such as insurance policies or financial agreements. You will analyze supporting documents, communicate with brokers or clients to clarify details, and ensure all agreements comply with regulations and company guidelines. Collaboration is often required with legal, sales, and risk management teams to ensure comprehensive risk assessment. These responsibilities help maintain the integrity of the underwriting portfolio and support the business’s long-term financial goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract underwriter?

To thrive as a Contract Underwriter, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of contract law and risk assessment, often supported by a degree in finance, business, or a related field. Familiarity with underwriting software, risk modeling tools, and sometimes certifications such as Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) are highly beneficial. Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills help underwriters interact effectively with clients and internal teams. These competencies are crucial to accurately evaluate risk, ensure compliance, and make sound underwriting decisions that protect the company’s interests.

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What cities are hiring for Contract Underwriter jobs?

Cities with the most Contract Underwriter job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Underwriter jobs?

The most popular types of Underwriter jobs are:

What states have the most Contract Underwriter jobs?

States with the most job openings for Contract Underwriter jobs include:

Infographic showing various Contract Underwriter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 68% Physical, 12% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,878 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Contract Surety Underwriter

Core Specialty

Dallas, TX • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

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As a Contract Surety Underwriter, you will be responsible for development of contract surety business in a defined territory. You will play a critical role in the production and underwriting of contract surety account business.

Key Accountabilities/Deliverables:

  • Develop and manage distribution channels, including brokers, agents, and partnerships to expand market reach and drive sales growth.

  • Champion a customer-centric approach to deliver exceptional service, satisfaction, and value propositions that will differentiate our contract surety team in the marketplace.

  • Review and evaluate surety bond applications/submissions to determine risk levels and underwriting terms.

  • Analyze financial statements, work-in-process reports, credit reports, and other relevant underwriting documents to assess the financial quality and character of principals and indemnitors for the establishment of surety credit.

  • Determine appropriate single and aggregate bond amounts, terms, and conditions based on risk analysis and industry standards.

  • Collaborate with brokers, agents, and principals to gather necessary information required for proper analysis of bond risks.

  • Keep current on industry trends, regulations, underwriting practices, and competitors.

  • Keep abreast of obligee requirements and statutory changes.

  • Other projects and tasks as assigned.


Technical Knowledge and Understanding:

  • Strong technical contract surety underwriting expertise and financial analysis expertise.

  • Excellent analytical and decision-making skills, with the ability to assess complex risks and provide solutions.

  • Proficiency in underwriting software and tools.

  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills, both verbal and written, for building relationships and managing stakeholder expectations.

  • Time management and prioritization skills.

  • Ability to multi-task and collaborate effectively with others in a high-performance team environment.


Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business, or related field.

  • 2+ years of surety underwriting experience or related field.

  • Contract surety underwriting experience preferred.

  • The ability to meet tight deadlines.

  • Strong customer service with a professional attitude and approach.

  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret financial data.

  • Ability to travel as needed.


#LI-hybrid

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At Core Specialty, you will receive a competitive salary and opportunities for professional development and advancement. We offer medical, dental, vision, and life insurances; short and long-term disability; a Company-match of 100% of a 6% contribution 401(k) plan; an Employee Assistance Plan; Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, Health Reimbursement Account, and a wellness program