Operations Intern - Summer 2026

National Life Group • Addison, IL

36d • $19 - $28 • Onsite

About The Position

The Life Insurance Application Operations Internship is designed to provide students and recent graduates with hands-on experience in every phase of the life insurance application process. Interns will rotate through various operational functions, gaining a deep understanding of how applications are processed, policies are issued, and customer needs are met efficiently. This program offers a unique opportunity to learn how life insurance operations support the overall success of the business. Interns will engage in activities that encompass the full process of a life insurance application, from submission and underwriting to policy issuance. By the end of the internship, participants will have a holistic view of how operations drive successful outcomes for both the company and its clients. This position currently offers an onsite work schedule, with the expectation that you are in the office four days per week during onsite core days. Our current onsite core days are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The work schedule type and core days are subject to change with advance notification and manager discretion.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Business Administration, Insurance, Finance, Operations, or a related field.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data handling.
• Excellent communication skills, with a client-focused approach.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); familiarity with insurance or CRM software is a plus.
• Interest in learning about life insurance and the operational processes that support it.
• Empathy: Displaying compassion, active listening, and a supportive attitude when interacting with clients or colleagues in complex situations.
• Organizational Skills: Keeping track of multiple applications, deadlines, and communications without letting details slip through the cracks, prioritizing tasks effectively
• Curiosity and a Desire to Learn: Asking questions, seeking to understand the "why" behind tasks, and being genuinely interested in how the life insurance business functions.
• Attention to Detail: Being thorough and precise in completing tasks, double-checking work, and ensuring accuracy in client and policy information.
• Integrity: Maintaining confidentiality, adhering to company protocols, and acting ethically in all interactions.
• Adaptability: Being open to shifting priorities, quickly learning new systems or tasks, and remaining composed in unfamiliar or dynamic situations.
• Resilience: Showing perseverance when faced with difficulties, maintaining a positive attitude during busy times, and recovering quickly from mistakes or obstacles.
• Strong Work Ethic: Interns with a strong work ethic will contribute positively to the team and help ensure operational efficiency.
• Strong Communication Skills: Communicating clearly and professionally with both internal teams and clients, ensuring information is conveyed accurately and in a timely manner.
• Self-Motivation and Initiative: Taking initiative, being reliable in completing tasks on time, and going above and beyond in delivering quality work.
• Problem-Solving Ability: Analyzing situations, proposing practical solutions, and contributing ideas for process improvements or service enhancements.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Being cooperative, respectful, supportive, and open to the ideas of others while working on group projects or when assisting colleagues.
• Patience: Remaining calm and composed when faced with challenging tasks or interactions, taking the time to ensure things are done correctly.
• Self-Motivation: Proactively seeking tasks, managing time effectively, and completing projects without needing continual reminders or oversight.

Nice To Haves

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); familiarity with insurance or CRM software is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Application Intake: Assist with receiving and reviewing incoming life insurance applications, ensuring all required documentation is accurate and complete.
• Data Entry & Verification: Input application data into company systems and verify accuracy of information against submitted documents.
• Underwriting Support: Collaborate with underwriting teams to facilitate the review of applications, providing operational support by organizing documents, communicating requirements, and tracking case statuses.
• Risk Assessment Coordination: Learn about the underwriting process, including medical reviews, financial evaluations, and risk assessment procedures, supporting the team in gathering necessary client information.
• Policy Administration: Support policy setup once an application is approved, including final documentation, policy creation, and the issuance of certificates to clients.
• Client Communication: Communicate with applicants, agents, and internal teams to provide status updates, request additional information, and address inquiries related to the application process.
• Process Improvement Initiatives: Participate in projects aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, streamlining processes, and improving client experience across the entire application lifecycle.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Assist in tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) related to application processing times, accuracy, and customer satisfaction, contributing to data-driven decision-making.

Benefits

• 10-week paid internship with formal orientation and onboarding
• Networking opportunities with peers and leaders throughout the summer
• Cross-Departmental group project focused on an enterprise-wide solution presented at company-wide event
• Presentation skills coaching sessions
• Learning opportunities throughout program
• Access to mentors (former program participants)
• full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave)

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Industry: Insurance Carriers and Related Activities
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees