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Underwriting Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ASSOCIATE ACTUARY

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site +1

$118K - $177K/yr

Overview Looking for an Associate Actuary or Actuary to lead the rate review process for homeowners ... underwriting. * Analyzes loss data and renders opinions to support premium growth and risk ...

Support of Pricing and Underwriting Risk Committee (PURC) special projects * Role has high level exposure to all Transamerica product lines and functional areas Qualifications: * FSA or equivalent ...

Showing results 41-60

Underwriting Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$17

$29

How much do underwriting associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for underwriting associate in Iowa is $17.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underwriting associate?

Underwriting associates are entry- to mid-level professionals who support underwriters in evaluating and processing insurance applications or loan requests. They assist in gathering and reviewing applicant information, assessing risk factors, and preparing documentation necessary for decision-making. Their work ensures that underwriters have accurate data to determine whether to approve or deny coverage or loans, and under what terms. Underwriting associates often interact with agents, clients, and other departments to facilitate a smooth underwriting process.

Can I become an underwriting associate with no experience?

Underwriting associates typically need some knowledge of insurance policies, risk assessment, and data analysis, but entry-level positions may be available for candidates with strong analytical skills and a willingness to learn. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and relevant certifications or coursework can improve chances of starting in this role without prior experience.

Do underwriting associates earn good money?

Underwriting associates typically earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start with moderate pay, while experienced associates with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented by benefits and bonuses. Overall, it is considered a stable and well-paying role within the insurance and finance sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an underwriting associate?

To thrive as an Underwriting Associate, you need a strong understanding of risk assessment, analytical skills, and knowledge of insurance principles, often supported by a bachelor's degree in finance, business, or a related field. Familiarity with underwriting software, data analysis tools, and sometimes certifications such as CPCU or AU is highly valuable. Attention to detail, effective communication, and organizational skills help you excel in evaluating applications and collaborating with clients and colleagues. These skills ensure accurate risk evaluation, efficient workflow, and compliance with industry standards, leading to sound business decisions and customer satisfaction.

What are some common challenges underwriting associates face when balancing risk assessment with client expectations?

Underwriting Associates often need to carefully evaluate the risk profile of applicants while also considering the business objectives and maintaining positive relationships with clients or brokers. A common challenge is ensuring thorough risk analysis under tight deadlines, especially when clients expect quick decisions. Balancing the need for accuracy and compliance with internal policies, while also providing responsive service, requires strong organizational and communication skills. Collaborating closely with senior underwriters and other departments can help manage these challenges and ensure informed, fair decisions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Underwriting jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Underwriting jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Underwriting Associate jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Underwriting Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Underwriting Associate job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, 20% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,147 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

ASSOCIATE ACTUARY

Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$118K - $177K/yr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Overview
Looking for an Associate Actuary or Actuary to lead the rate review process for homeowners/farm property pricing. Responsibilities include competitor analysis, review of company and mutual experience, assessment of industry trends, application of predictive modeling techniques, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. These analyses help influence strategic direction. This is a highly visible role and a great starting point for a high performer looking to establish a career with a solid company.
This position qualifies for our flexible workplace options, including remote. Work at our Grinnell, Iowa, headquarters or from a home office in any of the following states: Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Please note that candidates must be eligible to work in the U.S. without Grinnell Mutual sponsorship.
Responsibilities
  • Reviews experience by line of business and performs actuarial analyses including rate indications and relativity analysis.

  • Performs competitive analysis using competitor filings to support the development of marketable rating plans.

  • Develops and refines rating structures considering pricing competitiveness, systems impact, and regulatory requirements.

  • Develops new insurance products and innovates rating plans.

  • Analyzes product profitability and sensitivity to key assumptions, providing insights for pricing and underwriting.

  • Analyzes loss data and renders opinions to support premium growth and risk mitigation.

  • Assesses and quantifies financial, market, and operational risks.

  • Improves financial decision-making by developing models to evaluate financial implications of uncertain future events.

  • Presents rate proposals to management and collaborates on implementation of rate actions.

  • Provides actuarial support for filings, creates specifications for rate and methodology changes, and oversees regulatory filings, including certification.

  • Monitors statutes, regulations, and bulletins to determine pricing impacts and ensure compliance.

  • Uses data mining and predictive modeling techniques to identify patterns and relationships.

  • Analyzes and cleans data, presenting findings clearly and accurately.

  • Utilizes modeling and analytical software proficiently (e.g., Excel, SQL, R, Python).

  • Determines data requirements and definitions with system management and evaluates data accuracy.

  • Assesses the company's position and recommends strategies to achieve optimal profitability.

  • Evaluates and proposes alternative business strategies.

  • Reviews existing processes and controls, providing recommendations and documenting improvements.

  • Assesses actuarial implications of business decisions.

  • Participates in peer reviews to ensure quality and drive innovation.

  • Assists internal departments with inquiries related to rates, rules, and pricing.

  • Makes presentations and responds to external customer inquiries.

  • May represent the company with regulators, auditors, and other external partners.

  • Trains and mentors staff on rating procedures and identifies training needs for new associates.

  • Coordinates cross-functional efforts and influences outcomes without direct authority.

  • Maintains strong relationships across departments and levels.

  • Travel required as business needs dictate.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Actuarial Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related field.

  • ACAS required.

  • Fellow designation is a plus.

  • Five years preferred experience in property and casualty pricing or ratemaking; reinsurance knowledge preferred.

  • High proficiency in Excel and analytical tools (SQL, R, Python).

  • Strong communication skills with the ability to interpret technical documents and respond to stakeholders.

  • Effective presenter to senior leaders, industry groups, and/or boards.

  • Demonstrates uncompromising integrity and professional ethics.

  • Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills; able to work with abstract variables and draw sound conclusions.

  • Effective time management; able to manage multiple projects and adapt to changes and interruptions.

  • Strong business and product acumen; sound judgment under pressure.

  • Strong interpersonal, collaboration, and negotiation skills.

  • Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

  • Able to drive continuous improvement and innovation.

  • Must maintain confidentiality and adhere to all company policies and core values.

Compensation
The salary range for the position is $118,000 - $177,500. For a list of benefits, click here.
Working conditions and physical efforts
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each job duty and responsibility satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform job duties and responsibilities.
  • Work may be fast-paced with multiple projects and tight deadlines; hours outside core schedule may be required.

  • This position follows the company's Work from Anywhere guidelines, ensuring business needs are met.

  • Requires extended periods of stationary computer work.

  • Internal contacts include project managers, analysts, finance, underwriting leadership, reinsurance leadership, and operations divisions.

  • Frequent work with state regulators and occasional contact with auditors.

This job description is not intended to describe, in detail, the multitude of tasks that may be assigned, but rather to give the employee a general sense of the responsibilities and expectations of the position. As the nature of the business demands change, so too may the job duties and responsibilities.
Grinnell Mutual is an Equal Opportunity Employer in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.