Berkley Surety is a highly professional, service-oriented surety underwriting management company, providing a full spectrum of bonds for contract, environmental, and commercial surety accounts through multiple distribution channels in both the United States and Canada. We write on behalf of W. R. Berkley Corporation member company Berkley Insurance Company, which has an A.M. Best rating of A+ (Superior). We pride ourselves on building strong relationships with our agents. We highly value the insight and expertise our agency partners bring to the table which helps us provide timely and predictable surety solutions.

The Contract Surety Underwriting Trainee is an entry level position that allows recent college graduates or individuals with no surety experience to participate in a Surety specific training program. Under the supervision of an Underwriting Officer or Manager training will consist of a combination of reading assignments and on-the-job training. The first stage of training will provide a general overview of surety as well as basic financial analysis. The next stage will focus on learning how to underwrite (analyze and assess) the operational and financial strength of companies from a wide range of industries as well as the fundamentals of contract surety underwriting. By the end of the program, the individual will be able to make preliminary recommendations on specific bond requests as well as new account submissions and renewal lines of credit.  Initial training will be completed in Morristown, NJ beginning in June.  Following successful completion of the program the trainee will be transitioned into a position in our Westbrook, ME office.

 Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Complete reading and study assignments on surety and financial statement analysis.
• Perform basic analysis of financial statements and supporting schedules.
• Sign-up for and complete the AFSB program; passing the parts 151 and 152 within the first year of hire. AFSB 153 should then be completed within six months of first anniversary.
• Review analysis with direct manager.
• Assist in data entry and maintains financial underwriting files according to company guidelines.
• Conduct initial evaluation of bond forms and contract documents in an effort to assess risk.
• Communicate findings and recommendations to direct manager in a thoughtful and logical manner.
• Develop the ability to communicate effectively on technical topics in both written and oral format, establish a working rapport with Field and Home Office personnel, exhibit good listening skills and the capacity to gain knowledge and expertise with additional experience and further training.

 *Individuals interested in this opportunity MUST be able to participate in person during the 6-to-9-month training program offered in New Jersey.  At the conclusion of the program, they will be relocated back to our Westbrook office.

• Minimum 4-year degree or related industry experience
• Business/Finance/Accounting Majors preferred, but not required
• Banking or Credit Analysis background is a plus
• Demonstrates strong analytical ability.
• Effective oral and written communication skills so that others will clearly understand the content and the intent of the discussion/correspondence.
• Proficiency in the use of automation tools provided by BSG (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Lotus Notes, U/W System, etc.)
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Self-motivation and an out-going orientation to work with customers and associates.

The Company is an equal employment opportunity employer.