An underwriting assistant processes paperwork, performs clerical duties, and assists business individuals or teams responsible for preparing documents. These documents are usually of a binding and legal nature, such as insurance policies or mortgage loans. An underwriting assistant usually reports to an underwriter, but supervisory titles can vary from industry to industry. Depending upon the size of the organization in which he works, an assistant may be responsible for duties ranging from customer service to clerical tasks to document control.
Handling printed copies and being able to organize them is a major task of the underwriting assisting job. An underwriting associate will keep documentation updated, including client communications, records tracking, and specification changes. He will also control and coordinate the filing of documentation as it relates to policies and other legal records. The underwriting assistant will follow up with customers to ensure accurate records and will likely field general questions about written and electronic forms, procedures, and practices. If the organization has clients in distant locations, an underwriting assistant will likely travel with the team to help with the compiling and storing of paperwork and computerized documents.
With the advancement of technology, many parts of this job will be computerized. This assistant will conduct Internet research, run reports detailing sales, account management, and operations information, and file documentation with technology such as a computer or handheld device. He may utilize a computer tracking system for maintaining control of the organization's documentation, and in some cases, may direct training of others in how to utilize this computer system.
Depending upon the industry in which he works, the underwriting assistant may be responsible for additional tasks and may need previous experience to reach goals. He may be in charge of reviewing, understanding, and communicating current policies and laws to others. Information related to the business practices of his company will likely be recorded, stored, and forwarded by the underwriting assistant. He may use this information to help him prepare documentation for government agencies, internal company departments, and outside entities.
A typical day for this type of assistant may involve traveling to customer sites, working with a computer, and managing paperwork. He will likely spend much of the day filling out forms, filing, and speaking to others in meetings or on the phone. Much of the work relating to documentation can be solitary; however, some job positions in this career path may involve much time spent working in groups.
