Underwriting Operations Specialist

FCIC•Bedford Park, IL

About The Position

First Chicago Insurance Company is seeking an Underwriting Operations Specialist to support the Underwriting Operations Manager in administering, improving, and executing operational processes within the Underwriting Department. The role focuses on improving efficiency, compliance, workflow effectiveness, and system performance. It supports operational audits, vendor management, technology initiatives, data analysis, training development, process documentation, and implementation of underwriting tools and procedures. The Specialist identifies operational trends, supports compliance efforts, and helps ensure consistent execution of underwriting processes while collaborating with Underwriting, Claims, Marketing, IT, and other departments.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience in insurance operations, underwriting, policy administration, or related insurance functions.
Working knowledge of personal auto insurance underwriting principles, processes, and regulatory requirements.
Sound judgment when handling confidential, compliance-sensitive, and operationally sensitive information.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to identify trends and recommend practical solutions.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with external vendors.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and reporting tools.
Attention to detail, accuracy, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in business, Insurance, Risk Management, or a related field preferred.
Experience with operational reporting, audits, process improvement, or quality assurance activities preferred.
Experience supporting system implementations, workflow enhancements, or technology initiatives preferred.
Ability to learn and use AI and automation tools to support operational objectives.

Responsibilities

Partner with the Underwriting Operations Manager on operational initiatives, process improvements, and departmental projects.
Identify opportunities to use artificial intelligence, automation, and technology to improve underwriting efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.
Support testing, implementation, and maintenance of underwriting systems, workflows, and operational enhancements.
Collaborate with the Underwriting Quality Assurance team to document business requirements, conduct testing, and validate process improvements.
Support change management activities, including communications, training coordination, and adoption of new systems and procedures.
Review underwriting policies, transactions, and claims to identify trends, patterns, and improvement opportunities.
Prepare reports, analyses, and recommendations for underwriting leadership.
Develop and maintain training materials, job aids, reference guides, and educational resources for Underwriting, Claims, Marketing, and Independent Agents.
Perform compliance audits and quality reviews to assess adherence to regulatory requirements, company guidelines, and underwriting standards.
Monitor and analyze underwriting vendor performance, utilization, service levels, and cost effectiveness.
Evaluate data sources, tools, and operational solutions through research and cost-benefit analysis.
Partner with underwriting, claims, IT, and other business units to resolve operational issues and improve workflow efficiency.
Maintain operational documentation, procedures, and process maps.
Compile and track KPIs, audit results, vendor metrics, and operational outcomes.
Assist with special projects, system conversions, regulatory initiatives, and cross-functional business efforts.
Provide operational support and guidance to underwriting staff regarding procedures, systems, and best practices.
Serve as a backup resource for critical operational functions within the Underwriting Department.