The Ultimate Guide to the Different Types of Jobs in Insurance

Published
Jul 13, 2018

Jul 13, 2018

When you ask someone what they do, "I work in insurance" can be a fairly broad answer.

After all, there are so many facets to the industry and different niches that it's far from a one-size-fits-all profession. Rather, it's layered and intricate, with opportunities that fit a wide range of interests.

If you've ever wondered whether the insurance field is for you, keep reading.

Today, we're taking a look at the different types of jobs in insurance. By understanding the roles and responsibilities you can expect within each, you'll be better-equipped to choose the route that's best for you.

Ready to learn more? Let's go!

1. Actuary

If you're interested in risk management and enjoy mathematics, a career as an actuary might be an ideal fit. In short, an actuary analyzes scores of data from various checkpoints to determine the possibility of an event occurring.

Using this data, they work hand-in-hand with insurance companies to help them price their provided coverage. An actuary will usually work with a brokerage or an agency, though there is a need for this position within government agencies as well.

2. Claims Adjuster

If you've ever been in a bump-up and immediately called your insurance agency, you likely spoke with a claims adjustor at some point during the conversation. These professionals work with insurance clients who experience a loss and require compensation in return.

You'll work with the clients and often visit them in person to assess the damage and determine how much the payout should be. Thus, if you want to work in insurance but the idea of sitting behind a desk all day doesn't appeal to you, take a look at this role. You'll be able to travel some and visit clients face-to-face.

There are many types of insurance job titles used to describe what a claims adjustor does. You might be used to calling them an insurance examiner or an appraiser.

3. Policy Clerks

If the administrative side of business appeals to you, you may pursue a career as a policy clerk or a claims clerk. In this role, you'll create, distribute, receive and maintain the paperwork associated with client policies.

From new documents required during the onboarding process to existing records that need to be modified, you'll be in charge of it all. You'll also be expected to keep informative and thorough records of every transaction. As such, this job should be filled by someone with excellent organizational and communication skills.

4. Customer Support Representative

It's not uncommon for clients to become confused or concerned about their policy. When issues and inquiries arise, they'll contact their agency and be put in touch with a customer support representative.

These employees are skilled in the ins and outs of the agency's business policies and processes and can speak authoritatively on client matters. They might also be the first person in contact with a client when the claims process is initiated and will be required to take detailed notes on all shared information.

5. Sales Agent

When someone is in the market for a new insurance policy, they'll work directly with a sales agent to get the process started. Keep in mind there are many different subsets within this category. You might sell life insurance, final expense insurance, homeowner's insurance, renter insurance and more.

Especially in the beginning, an agent will reach out to prospective customers and inquire about their insurance needs. From there, they'll help them determine which policy is best-suited for their needs and appropriate level of coverage they require.

You may work for a specific insurance company or for a more widescale agency or brokerage. In this role, it's important to be well-versed on the type of insurance you're offering so you can be prepared to answer any questions your prospects may have.

6. Loss Control Consultant

A loss control consultant or specialist will visit and analyze a business to determine if there are any weak areas where workplace security or safety could be compromised, resulting in a loss. From there, he or she will work with key stakeholders to find ways to reduce this risk and better safeguard all assets.

Then, the specialist will relay all findings to an insurance company, where the hazards can be factored into policy price and other factors.

7. Underwriter

When someone first starts the insurance application process, that application will go to an underwriter. This professional will assess the data provided to determine if the client is a good candidate for the type and amount of coverage requested.

The underwriter will determine how much risk the insurance agency will incur by accepting this new client and as such, what the price for the policy should be. He or she will then communicate this information to the prospective client and ensure everyone within the company or agency is on the same page.

Navigating the Types of Jobs in Insurance

With so many different yet similar terms used to describe the types of jobs in insurance, it can be easy to become confused. The key to starting your job hunt is to figure out which type of role you want to play, who you want to work with and whether you seek an in-house or forward-facing position.

Regardless of the niche you select, you can't go wrong by pursuing this profession. Insurance can be complicated and overwhelming to the uninitiated, but it can also be one of the most rewarding and opportunity-rich careers.

Are you ready to start your job search and find the insurance position of your dreams? Start by browsing our employer list, where you'll find scores of local companies and their associated job openings.

Then, be sure to sign up for our job alerts so you never miss an opportunity. The right one is waiting just around the corner!