Recognized as a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Top Workplace for 12 consecutive years, including three years of being honored as number one! Join us at West Bend, where we believe that our associates are our greatest asset. We hire talented individuals who are conscientious, dedicated, customer focused, and able to build lasting relationships. We create and maintain an environment where you feel a sense of belonging and appreciation. Your diversity of thought, experience, and knowledge are valued. We're committed to fostering a welcoming culture, offering you opportunities for meaningful work and professional growth. More than a workplace, we celebrate our successes and take pride in serving our communities.

Based out of the Madison, Wisconsin office, the Contract Surety Assistant Underwriter position is an excellent opportunity to develop and expand knowledge of the surety bond industry as an underwriting trainee.

Responsibilities will include:

Assist territory underwriter(s) in answering phone calls, emails, and assisting with contract bond processing.
• Maintain underwriting files, including requesting necessary file updates.
• Working with territory underwriter, assist in analyzing new contract account submissions.
• Conduct financial statement and credit analyses, developing a comprehensive understanding of financial statements and key ratios.
• Review construction contracts and assess project risk.
• Perform credit and reference checks.
• Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with agents and contractor clients, through phone calls, in-person visits, and other strategic marketing opportunities.
• Attend instructor led and web-based training, paired with self-study coursework, to enhance and develop underwriting acumen and knowledge of the surety industry.

Preferred Experience and Skills

• Oral and written communication skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Analytical and decision-making skills
• Excellent customer service/relationships skills

Preferred Education and Training

• Bachelor's degree (preferably in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business, or related field) or equivalent combination of education and experience

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West Bend provides equal employment opportunities to all associates and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, and promotion.