Commercial Underwriter (Property & Casualty)

Position Overview

Due to an upcoming retirement, we are seeking a Commercial Lines Underwriter to join our team.

The Commercial Lines Underwriter will manage all aspects of small commercial underwriting for an assigned group of Independent Agents within New Jersey. You will work closely with agents to develop, manage, and profitably grow your book of business while providing responsive and practical underwriting solutions.

This position requires strong technical underwriting judgment, relationship-building skills, and the ability to balance growth, service, and profitability. As part of a smaller company, you will have the opportunity to make a visible contribution and help shape the success of our Commercial Lines operation.

Responsibilities

• Underwrite commercial lines submissions, new business, renewals, endorsements, and other policy transactions for “main street” accounts generally under $15,000 in annual written premium.
• Evaluate individual risks and make sound underwriting and pricing decisions consistent with the Company’s appetite, guidelines, and profitability objectives, including review of loss history, loss control reports, premium audits, and other underwriting information.
• Manage an assigned underwriting territory and analyze agency and book performance, including production, profitability, retention, and quote-to-bind ratios.
• Build productive relationships with Independent Agents and clearly communicate the Company's underwriting appetite to support profitable growth and retention.
• Identify opportunities to improve agency and book performance and collaborate with the Marketing Director to develop and implement appropriate action plans.
• Provide responsive, practical, and professional service that supports the Company's commitment to ease of doing business.
• Conduct agency visits and attend industry events as needed.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• At least five years of commercial P&C carrier underwriting experience, with an emphasis on “main street” commercial accounts such as retail shops, professional offices, food and hospitality, artisan contractors, small habitational, and other small businesses written on BOP or CPP forms as well as commercial umbrella and commercial auto.
• Strong knowledge of commercial underwriting, coverage, pricing, and risk selection at both the individual-account and overall-book levels.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage a territory or book of business with accountability for growth, retention, and profitability.
• Strong analytical and decision-making abilities, including the confidence to exercise independent judgment, identify opportunities, and take initiative to improve individual, departmental, and Company performance.
• Excellent verbal, written, presentation, negotiation, and relationship-management skills, with a commitment to providing responsive and professional service to agents and Policyholders.
• Collaborative, adaptable, and solutions-oriented, with the ability to work independently, contribute effectively as part of a team, and manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Experience with ImageRight, agency portals, or similar insurance systems is preferred.
• Familiarity with MSO (Mutual Service Office) commercial lines products is a plus.
• Ability to travel occasionally within New Jersey for agency visits and industry events.

Education

• Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• CPCU, AU, CIC, ARM, or another relevant insurance designation strongly preferred.

Compensation and Benefits

Farmers Insurance Company of Flemington offers a competitive compensation and benefits package that includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) plan with Company match.
• Employee bonus plan.
• Tuition assistance and professional development support.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• Volunteer Time Off program.
• Casual dress code and a friendly, comfortable, and collaborative work environment.
• Additional Company-paid and voluntary benefits.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $70,000 to $105,000. Starting salary is determined by the candidate's directly relevant underwriting experience, technical depth, professional designations, and demonstrated results — candidates near the top of the range typically bring meaningfully more than the minimum along with a strong track record managing a profitable territory.

This position is being hired as an in-office role. A hybrid/flexible schedule may be offered to an exceptional candidate.

Information for Applicants

A cover letter is not required to apply. However, applicants whose résumés reflect a pattern of positions of relatively short duration are encouraged to provide brief context regarding those transitions. We recognize that employment changes may occur for many legitimate reasons and will consider the circumstances presented rather than relying solely on the length of any individual position.

Applicants are also welcome to explain why this opportunity is a strong match for their experience and long-term career objectives.

Farmers Insurance Company of Flemington maintains a healthy, smoke-free workplace. Smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere on the Farmers campus. We are an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to any status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodation is available to qualified individuals with disabilities during the application and employment process.