Underwriter Development Program Jobs in Oakland, CA

The Underwriter is a developing specialty lines professional responsible for evaluating, pricing, and managing E&S commercial lines submissions within a defined scope of authority. This individual is building their technical underwriting foundation across one or more specialty product areas while developing the broker relationships, analytical instincts, and risk judgment that define a long-term career in surplus lines.

Working closely with the Senior Underwriter and SVP, this role is hands-on and execution-focused, processing submissions accurately and efficiently, learning to identify risk nuance, and contributing to the growth and profitability of the team’s book of business. The ideal candidate is intellectually curious, detail-oriented, and eager to grow within the E&S market.

Key Responsibilities

Underwriting & Risk Evaluation

• Review, analyze, and underwrite new and renewal E&S commercial lines submissions within delegated authority, applying program guidelines and carrier appetite to risk selection decisions.
• Evaluate risk exposures, coverage needs, and loss history across E&S specialty product areas including E&S Casualty (small to mid-market), Professional Liability (E&O), Management Liability (D&O, EPLI), Cyber (niche programs), Construction & Contracting Specialty, Environmental Liability, and Medical Professional and Commercial Liability.
• Prepare accurate quotes, endorsements, and binders in a timely manner, ensuring documentation meets program standards and carrier requirements.
• Apply appropriate pricing, coverage structures, and terms under the guidance of senior underwriting staff to support profitable growth.
• Support portfolio monitoring activities by tracking renewal activity, identifying emerging trends, and escalating risks or concerns appropriately.

Broker & Client Relationships

• Develop and maintain working relationships with wholesale brokers and agents, responding promptly and professionally to submissions, inquiries, and coverage questions.
• Communicate underwriting decisions, coverage terms, and program requirements clearly and in a way that supports broker confidence and retention.
• Participate in broker meetings, agency visits, and industry events to build market presence and strengthen distribution relationships over time.
• Work collaboratively with senior underwriting staff to structure solutions that balance broker and insured needs with program guidelines and profitability goals.

Program Support & Continuous Improvement

• Maintain accurate and complete underwriting files, documentation, and system records in accordance with program and compliance requirements.
• Contribute observations and feedback on submission quality, market trends, and coverage gaps to support ongoing product and process improvement.
• Partner with operations and analytics teams to support data integrity, workflow efficiency, and reporting accuracy.

Professional Development & Team Contribution

• Actively engage in training, mentorship, and continuing education opportunities to deepen technical expertise across E&S specialty lines.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with claims, actuarial, and operations teammates to support sound underwriting outcomes and program health.
• Model our core values of accountability, curiosity, collaboration, and care in daily work and interactions.
• Demonstrate a growth mindset seeking feedback, embracing complexity, and continuously raising the quality of your work.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience required.
• 3–5 years of commercial lines underwriting experience with an MGA, surplus lines carrier, program administrator, or standard lines carrier with exposure to specialty or complex risks.
• Working knowledge of at least one E&S specialty line, including but not limited to, E&S Casualty, Professional Liability (E&O), Management Liability (D&O / EPLI), Cyber, Construction & Contracting Specialty, Environmental Liability, or Medical Professional and Commercial Liability, with a desire to deepen that expertise and grow into full ownership of a product line.
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate risk exposures, apply underwriting guidelines, and make sound coverage and pricing decisions within a defined scope of authority.
• Strong attention to detail with developing analytical skills and the ability to interpret loss data and exposure information.
• Clear and professional communication skills with the ability to build productive working relationships with brokers and internal teammates.
• Self-motivated and organized, with the ability to manage a submission queue and meet turnaround expectations in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in underwriting systems, rating tools, and the Microsoft Office suite.

Personal Attributes

• Intellectually curious with a genuine interest in specialty insurance, complex risk, and the E&S marketplace.
• Detail-oriented and conscientious, with a strong sense of personal accountability for the quality and accuracy of their work.
• Collaborative, approachable and works well with teammates, brokers, and senior staff and is receptive to coaching and feedback.
• Ambitious and growth-oriented, looking to build a specialty underwriting career and take on increasing responsibility over time.