ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Underwriter Trainee Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

thg

Executive Underwriter, Inland Marine

Dubuque, IA · Hybrid

We encourage all Inland Marine Underwriting professionals in the Midwest looking to join a dynamic & collaborative team to apply. POSITION OVERVIEW: This role operates as the most experienced ...

FBL Financial Group

Sr. Life Underwriter

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$96K - $114K/yr

Senior Life Underwriter Do you have a medical background and/or previous experience underwriting life insurance? Are you a problem solver with great analytical thinking skills, as well as strong ...

Holmes Murphy

Senior Programs Underwriter

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$96K - $114K/yr

We are looking to add a Senior Programs Underwriter to join our Innovative Program Solutions team in West Des Moines, IA . This team member will build a portfolio of IPS business collaborating with a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUnderwriter JobsUnderwriter Trainee JobsUnderwriter Trainee Jobs in Iowa

Underwriter Trainee information

See Iowa salary details

$30.5K

$74.1K

$131K

How much do underwriter trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for underwriter trainee in Iowa is $74,088.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,300.00 and $81,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does an underwriter trainee earn?

An underwriter trainee typically earns between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, but with training and skill development, salaries can increase as they gain underwriting knowledge and certifications.

How much do beginner underwriters make?

Entry-level underwriters typically earn between $45,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location and industry. Starting salaries may increase with relevant certifications, such as the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), and experience with underwriting software and risk assessment. Compensation can also vary based on the employer and the complexity of the policies handled.

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

To thrive as an Underwriter Trainee, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a bachelor's degree in finance, business, or a related field. Familiarity with underwriting software, risk assessment tools, and proficiency in Excel are commonly required, and industry certifications like CPCU can be advantageous. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and manage multiple priorities. These skills are essential to accurately assess risk, make informed decisions, and contribute to the overall profitability and integrity of the insurance company.

What is the difference between Underwriter Trainee vs Underwriter?

AspectUnderwriter TraineeUnderwriter
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, training programsExperience, certifications like CPCU or ARM often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, supervised tasksIndependent decision-making, client interaction
Employer & Industry UsageInsurance companies, entry-level rolesInsurance companies, experienced roles
Search & Comparison IntentLearning about entry-level underwriting rolesUnderstanding experienced underwriting positions

The main difference between an Underwriter Trainee and an Underwriter is experience level. Trainees are in training, focusing on learning the basics, while Underwriters have gained experience and handle complex risk assessments independently.

What is an underwriter trainee?

An Underwriter Trainee is an entry-level professional who learns how to evaluate risks and determine appropriate insurance coverage and premiums under the supervision of experienced underwriters. Their training involves learning about insurance policies, analyzing applications, assessing potential risks, and making recommendations based on company guidelines. This role serves as a starting point for a career in underwriting, providing foundational knowledge and practical experience in the insurance industry.

What are some typical challenges an underwriter trainee might encounter during their first year on the job?

As an Underwriter Trainee, one common challenge is learning to balance risk assessment with client needs, while adhering to company policies and regulatory requirements. Trainees often need to quickly develop a strong understanding of underwriting guidelines and how to apply them to real-world cases, which can be complex and varied. Additionally, adapting to a fast-paced environment and effectively collaborating with senior underwriters, brokers, and agents requires strong communication and organizational skills. Overcoming these challenges is an important part of gaining confidence and proficiency in the role.

How do I become an underwriter trainee with no experience?

To become an underwriter trainee with no experience, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some employers prefer or require a bachelor's degree in fields like finance, business, or economics. Entry-level positions often provide on-the-job training, and developing skills in analysis, attention to detail, and familiarity with underwriting software can improve chances. Certifications such as the Associate in Commercial Underwriting (ACU) or similar can also enhance prospects for advancement.
What are the most commonly searched types of Underwriter jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Underwriter jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Underwriter Trainee jobs in Iowa? For Underwriter Trainee jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Underwriter Trainee jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Underwriter Trainee jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Underwriter Trainee jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Underwriter Trainee job openings:
Underwriter Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underwriter Trainee job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,088 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Commercial Lines Underwriter

United Fire Group

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

This is a continuous posting in anticipation of growth opportunities for the corporate headquarters in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. We are seeking Commercial Lines Underwriters to manage a commercial underwriting territory of $4 to $10 million. Work hard to attain positive results (premium growth and acceptable loss ratios) through sound risk selection, developing strong relationships with agency personnel, and providing a quality product combined with excellent service. Provide training to new employees as needed. Serve as a resource mentor when needed to Associate Underwriters and Trainees, approve risks within your authority for Associate Commercial Lines Underwriters, develop and facilitate training sessions per branch needs and for the for Producer School & Underwriter Trainee Program.
Job Functions
• Evaluate coverages. Review applications, endorsement requests and renewals for limits and coverages requested.
• Information gathering and managing a book of business. Ask good questions when agent inquires if risk is acceptable. Select critical information needed. Review daily claims sheet. Work with marketing to monitor production and loss ratio for each agency.
• Pricing of risk. Insure risk is properly classed. IRPM's, experience rating of judgment rates when necessary. Place risk in the proper program. Review renewals.
• Negotiation skills. Work with agents and csr's to obtain a saleable program for the agent/insured while avoiding adverse selection against the company.
• Marketing/Coaching/Training. Regular visits made to agencies. Quote additional coverages. Participate in agency reviews. Provide guidance and coaching to others. Certify policies. Recommend coverages, rate changes and provide feedback to management on what is happening in the marketplace, agencies and competition.
Skills & Requirements
Four-year college degree preferred. Must have or be working toward your AU (Associate in Underwriting) designation. Two - five years commercial lines underwriting experience, risk evaluation skills, solid insurance contract knowledge, effective communication skills and excellent human relations skills. Strong analytical/problem solving/logical thinker; Strong communication, leadership and negotiating skills; Strong planning and organization skills with the ability to multi-task; and a willingness to accept challenges and take appropriate risks.
Equal Opportunity Employer
United Fire Group has a policy to provide equal opportunity for all. We continue to take positive action to recruit, hire, train, transfer and promote persons in all job categories based on the individual's ability to perform the job and without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability or genetics.

Apply