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Political Risk Underwriter Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... risk presented and properly managing that risk and * Conduct all forms of marketing to ... political affiliation; expunged juvenile records; arrest and court records where prohibited by ...

... risk presented and properly managing that risk and * Conduct all forms of marketing to ... political affiliation; expunged juvenile records; arrest and court records where prohibited by ...

Political Risk Underwriter information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$33.5K

$81.3K

$143.8K

How much do political risk underwriter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for political risk underwriter in Chicago, IL is $81,320.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $89,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by political risk underwriters on the job?

Political Risk Underwriters often face the challenge of assessing risks in dynamically changing geopolitical environments, which requires staying updated on current events and emerging trends. They must balance thorough risk evaluation with meeting client deadlines and business targets, making time management an important aspect of the role. Another common challenge is communicating complex political and economic information in a clear way to clients and internal stakeholders, ensuring that everyone understands the basis for underwriting decisions. Collaboration with underwriters specializing in other lines, as well as with legal and research teams, is also frequent, making teamwork and adaptability key to success.

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

To thrive as a Political Risk Underwriter, you need strong analytical abilities, expertise in global political and economic environments, and a background in finance, economics, or international relations. Familiarity with risk modeling tools, geopolitical analysis software, and proficiency in Microsoft Excel or specialized underwriting platforms is often required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and negotiation skills help you assess complex scenarios and collaborate with both clients and colleagues. These skills ensure accurate risk assessments, effective policy recommendations, and successful navigation of volatile international markets.

What is a political risk underwriter?

A Political Risk Underwriter assesses and evaluates risks related to political instability, government actions, and geopolitical events that could impact businesses and investments. They analyze factors such as expropriation, currency inconvertibility, political violence, and contract breaches to determine insurance coverage and pricing. Their role involves reviewing country risk reports, financial statements, and market trends to make informed underwriting decisions. They work closely with brokers, clients, and risk analysts to develop policies that mitigate potential financial losses. This position requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of international affairs, and expertise in risk assessment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Political Risk Underwriter jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Political Risk Underwriter jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Political Risk Underwriter jobs in Chicago, IL? For Political Risk Underwriter jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Political Risk Underwriter jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Political Risk Underwriter jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Political Risk Underwriter job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 71% In-person, and 29% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $81,320 per year, or $39.1 per hour.

Underwriter, Surety

Markel Corporation

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Markel rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

58th of 301 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!The underwriter is to have the knowledge and apply the skills required of this position, including knowledge of required and normal ratios, risks associated with various types of construction activities, competition's underwriting attitudes and industry norms for all issues. The underwriter is the source for knowledge and information concerning bonding.
Primary responsibilities
With assistance where needed from Branch Manager:
  • Underwrite contract bonds adhering to Markel Surety's underwriting philosophy, appropriately assessing the risk presented and properly managing that risk and
  • Conduct all forms of marketing to strategically build a profitable book in a designated territory.

Experience
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • 3-4 years experience in Contract Surety Underwriting
  • Produce and underwrite business from assigned agents/brokers
  • Continuously manage book of business (maintains quality business)
  • Direct responsibility for agency development and management, including agency visits
  • Accountable for accurate underwriting documentation/information in account management systems and adherence to documentation standards
  • Knowledgeable in contract review including bond forms, riders, and indemnity agreements
  • Understands and executes strategies to produce quality results
  • Open to travel 20%

#LI-Hybrid
#DEIB
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 salary for the position is $74,320 - $102,190 with a 20% bonus potential.
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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