Underwriting Trainee - 2026 Graduate Development Program

Graduate Development Program, Ignition

Ignition, National Interstate's Graduate Development Program, is a month-long cohort that equips recent graduates with a comprehensive understanding of our business through a blend of instructor-led, self-paced, and hands-on training. Participants gain a strong understanding of our business model, value proposition, and how individual roles impact the organization while becoming immersed in our company culture. Through expert-led sessions, this program explores cross-functional areas, develops key professional skills, and strengthens relationships through team-building and social activities.

The program is taking place in June 2026. The role will be expected to work in the Richfield, Ohio office.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities

• Learns to evaluate and underwrite new and renewal business in accordance with Company underwriting guidelines and risk appetite.
• Learns to analyze risk information to make informed decisions on coverage, pricing, and terms.
• Participates in collaborating with actuaries, agents, brokers, and clients to obtain necessary information and clarify details.
• Assists with ordering additional reports and screens, such as motor vehicle reports, loss history reports, outside inspections, etc., to inform decisions.
• Learns how to document underwriting decisions in compliance with state and federal insurance regulations.
• Assists with evaluating existing policies for potential renewal or modification.
• Participates in communicating underwriting decisions clearly and effectively to internal teams, agents, and brokers.
• Develops knowledge of industry trends, regulatory changes, and market conditions.
• Develops effective business relationships with internal and external customers / coworkers in order to attract and retain profitable business.
• Learns to interpret, explain, and market products and services.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

Education : Bachelor's Degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Risk Management and Insurance, or a related field or equivalent experience.

Scope of Job / Qualifications : Typically participates in a formal training program for 6 months to a year. Performs work under close supervision and technical direction. Works on assignments of low to moderate technical and logistical complexity. Demonstrates basic analytical, risk assessment, and problem-solving abilities. Develops and maintains knowledge of company policies and industry laws and regulations. Strong interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills. Develops strong analytical skills and the ability to use data to analyze situations, identify problems, and develop effective solutions.

Company : NIIC National Interstate Insurance Company

Benefits : Compensation varies by role, position level, and location. Individual pay is influenced by skills, education, training, certifications, experience, and the role's scope and complexity, along with business needs. We offer a competitive Total Rewards package, including medical, dental, and vision plans starting on day one, PTO, paid holidays, commuter benefits, an employee stock purchase plan, education reimbursement, paid parental leave / adoption assistance, and a 401(k) plan with company match. These benefits are available to eligible full-time and part-time employees.

Your recruiter can provide more details about our total rewards and specific compensation ranges during the hiring process.