An actuary applies mathematics, statistical methods and risk theory to calculate insurance premiums. An actuary will also assess the level of an insurance company's claims reserves by tracking payment statistics. He/she evaluates the risks that expose the insurance company to claims and puts a monetary value to those risks. An actuary is responsible for assisting insurance company executives in managing their portfolio risk through the use of sophisticated mathematical models. He/she analyzes insurance rates for things such as cars, homes, or life insurance. An actuary estimates the amount of money needed to be set-aside for claims that have not yet been paid and forecasts potential impact of catastrophes. 

Do the following statements accurately describe you?

• You are currently enrolled in an actuarial science, math or statistics post-secondary program
• You have keen analytical, project management and problem-solving skills
• You are a "numbers person," with a strong interest in specialized mathematics such as calculus, statistics and probability
• You have solid communication skills (oral & written) and are comfortable using a variety of computer applications
• You are self-motivated and ambitious, yet work well within a team atmosphere

If you answered yes to these statements, then a career as an actuary might be the perfect fit!

Combinations of the following qualifications are necessary for gaining employment in the property and casualty insurance industry.

College/University

A high standing undergraduate degree in actuarial sciences, math, statistics or actuarial mathematics is helpful in completing professional actuarial certifications. It is also important that your course load is well-rounded with courses in business, communications, humanities and computer science

Professional Qualifications

Actuaries must achieve professional status by passing a set of exams offered by the Casualty Actuarial society and the Society of Actuaries. Once students have completed one or more recognized college courses, they can begin with a Validation of Educational Experience (VEE) exam. As criteria for writing the VEEs, students must achieve at least a B grade or equivalent in courses approved by the Canadian Institutes of Actuaries (CIA), Society of Actuaries (SOA), and Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS).

EARNING POTENTIAL

Earning potential for this role depends on education, experience and geographic region. Much weight is given to those with specialized experience and achievement in associate and fellowship programs. Many employers offer performance-linked and successful examination bonuses.

Internship with one exam completion              From $40,000 - $60,000
Junior - Intermediate Level                            From $60,000 - $100,000
Intermediate - Senior Level                           From $100,000 - $200,000+

FUTURE PROSPECTS

Employment opportunities for actuaries are expected to increase. The increase will be largely due to heightened risk awareness and the potential financial consequences of large catastrophes. There is already a growing demand for professionals who are skilled at managing programs that control risk and can forecast and help organizations prepare for disaster contingencies.

If you speak one or more foreign languages, there are also possibilities to work abroad.

New professionals to the field will also need to replace retiring workers and meet the needs of a growing population. These combined factors will create a substantial number of job opportunities.

An appraiser is responsible for inspecting insured personal property (i.e. car, home, jewelry) for which a claim has been submitted due to an accident, theft or fire. He/she estimates the loss or damage of personal property and reports to the insurance company's claims adjuster. An appraiser works with the adjuster and replacement or repair suppliers to find the most cost-effective way to return clients' property back to the state it was in before their loss. An appraiser evaluates insured items such as homes, buildings and structures (including farms). He/she reviews and analyzes data such as past sales, title searches, engineering and alignment maps, coil maps, subdivision plans, water and sewer plans, location cost data and easements. An appraiser presents and clarifies assessment processes to rate payers. He/she prepares appraisal reports for lending agencies, insurance companies, government departments, courts, attorneys, creditors, buyers or auctioneers. 

Do the following statements accurately describe you?

• You are currently enrolled in a technical college program (auto mechanics, construction, mechanical engineer) or you are enrolled in an university engineering degree program
• Your current studies involve complex technical processes and knowledge, hands-on training and preparation of technical documents
• You have a desire to learn new things and keep up with technological changes
• You have strong interpersonal skills, are detail-oriented and have a high computer proficiency
• You are able to communicate clearly in written and spoken English
• You take direction well and are able to work independently to achieve goals
• You have a keen interest in auto mechanics and vehicle repair or construction and skilled trades

If you answered yes to these statements, then a career as an appraiser might be the perfect fit!

A combination of the following qualifications would be helpful in gaining employment in the property and casualty insurance industry.

College/University

A college diploma or university degree is an asset. Consider a post-secondary education studying the business of insurance, transportation, mechanical engineering or construction.

EARNING POTENTIAL

Earning Potential for this role depends on education, experience and geographic region. Much weight is given to those with specialized education (ie. CIP designation) experience and skills. Many employers offer performance-linked bonuses.

Entry - Junior Level                       $30,000 - $40,000
Junior - Intermediate                      $40,000 - $50,000
Intermediate - Senior                      $50,000 - $75,000

FUTURE PROSPECTS

Across Canada, employment opportunities for appraisers are on the rise. The increase is largely due to organizations' desire to respond to new businesses and claims. Appraisers will also need to replace retiring workers and meet the needs of an increasing population, especially in urban centres. This has already created a substantial number of job openings and professional opportunities.

Insurance brokers are independent business professionals.  Brokers bring customers and insurance companies into a contractual relationship. A broker manages all aspects of the insurance transaction; advising the client, arranging and invoicing the policy, and facilitating claims. Since brokers usually sell the insurance products of more than one company, a broker provides consumers with choice in the marketplace. He/she identifies the exposure to risk that consumers face and protects them from that exposure. A broker services the portfolios of existing clients and works to bring new clients on board. He/she helps consumers deal with loss by ensuring the claims process moves as quickly and efficiently as possible. A broker prepares reports, maintains records, and keeps track of a client's changing needs by maintaining relationships. Brokers have the option of owning a brokerage firm or working for one.

Do the following statements accurately describe you?

• You are currently enrolled in a general arts, education, humanities or a business program at the post-secondary level
• Your current program of study requires the ability to communicate complex ideas, critical thinking, time-management and organization
• You have an entrepreneurial spirit and are happiest working independently, setting your own pace and schedule.
• You have a "knack" for sales and use your outgoing personality to relate to a variety of customers
• You are comfortable communicating complex subject matter to the general public
• You are comfortable using a variety of computer applications and enjoy maintaining organized records using computer software

If you answered yes to these statements, then a career as a broker might be the perfect fit!

A combination of the following qualifications would be helpful in gaining employment as a broker in the property and casualty industry.

College/University

A college diploma or university degree in any subject is acceptable for entry into the profession, although those who have studied finance, management, mathematics or business would have an advantage.

For an even greater advantage, there are a number of post-secondary institutions that offer a business of insurance program. Use the links on the right to get connected.

Licensing

Insurance Brokers and agents must be sponsored/employed by an insurance company and licensed to transact business in each province or territory in which they operate. More information is available through the Insurance Brokers Association of Canada.

EARNING POTENTIAL

Earning potential for this role depends on education, experience and geographic location. Many employers offer performance-based bonuses in addition to salary.

Entry - Junior                      From $24,000 to $30,000
Junior - Intermediate           From $40,000 to $60,000
Intermediate - Senior          May go well over $100,000

FUTURE PROSPECTS

Ongoing career opportunities within this field reflect both the range in scale of brokerage firms and the increasingly international scope of the industry. With a smaller firm, you may pursue a rewarding local or regional career, while larger and international firms will enable you to take on national and international responsibilities.

A broker role can also be an excellent starting point for a broad range of insurance-related careers. Many of those who specialize in specific areas of insurance, like marine, aviation or environment, started their careers by training as insurance brokers. Others move into management roles - managing a team of brokers or several branches of a brokers' company - or other functions within the industry, including underwriting, new business development, risk management or adjusting.

Employment opportunities for brokers are expected to increase. The increase is largely due to a large number of retiring workers and our increasing population. This will create a substantial number of job openings and opportunities.

A claims investigator examines the facts of a claim to determine if the claim is valid and prevents fraudulent claims by determining its authenticity. He/she coordinates the services that may be required by policy holders following an incident and helps insurance companies to settle claims quickly. An investigator uses a combination of tools including interviewing and cutting-edge software to help evaluate claims. He/she investigates defective products that may cause injury or damage or may investigate events (such as an oil spill) for which a company may be liable.  An investigator manages multiple cases with confidence and accuracy and responds well to working to targets and tight deadlines. He/she must also prepare reports, maintain records and keep track of evidence trails and interview statements. Claims investigators and forensic specialists have the option of being independent consultants, working for government and public organizations or working for insurance companies. Some of the job titles associated with this field are: corporate claims analyst, fire investigator, forensic engineer, forensic accountant, special investigator, construction claims analyst, forensic analyst, field investigations, independent investigator and fraud examiner.

Do the following statements accurately describe you?

• You are currently enrolled in a science, accounting, computer science, engineering, law enforcement or criminal justice program at the post-secondary level
• You have exceptional interpersonal skills and are naturally inquisitive
• You have a sense of mutual respect and fairness and highly value ethical behaviour
• You have good decision-making skills and work well within a team
• You have a reputation beyond reproach, with a keen interest in civil law, insurance law, rules of evidence and procedure

If you answered yes to these statements, then a career as a claims investigator might be the perfect fit!

Claims investigation is a specialized field requiring a blend of interpersonal and technical skills. For this reason, a degree is less important than an ability to display the competencies and development potential to become an effective claims investigator. Exceptional communication, empathy and investigative skills are essential.

For a highly specialized role such as a forensic engineer or forensic accountant, a degree is essential to gain employment in this field.

A combination of the following qualifications would be helpful as a claims investigator in the property and casualty insurance industry.

College/University

Technical skills can be learned through a college diploma in law enforcement, criminal justice and/or business of insurance program.

For a highly specialized role in forensic accounting, forensic engineering or accident re-constructing, a university degree in engineering or accounting is required along with a certified public accountant designation (ie CMA, CA, CGA) or a professional engineer designation (ie PEng)

Professional Qualifications

For those interested in an investigations career, certifications in fraud examination are available through the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners.

EARNING POTENTIAL

Earning potential for this role depends on education, experience, and geographic region. Much weight is given to those with specialized education (ie CIP designation), experience and skills. Many employers offer performance-linked bonuses.

Entry - Junior Level                          $30,000 - $40,000
Junior - Intermediate                       $40,000 - $50,000
Intermediate - Senior                      $50,000 - $75,000

FUTURE PROSPECTS

Employment opportunities for claims investigators are expected to increase. The increase will be largely due to heightened fraud awareness combined with new laws and regulations. There is already a growing demand for professionals who are skilled at detecting and investigating fraud. New professionals to the field will also need to replace retiring workers and meet the needs of an increasing population. These combined factors will create a substantial number of jobs.

Loss adjusters investigate insurance claims arising out of losses such as fires, car accidents, and burglaries, and determine the amount of damage or loss covered by the insurance policy. He/she makes recommendations regarding payment of benefits, based on the coverage noted on the insurance policy and negotiates payment and settlement. An adjuster may be employed by an insurance company or may act as an independent contractor. He/she ensures that those who have suffered a loss receive all of the benefits and assistance to which they are entitled. In disputed claims, an adjuster may also be required to investigate the cause of the loss - how a fire started, why a plane went down, etc. An adjuster investigates, negotiates and settles a variety of claims in an efficient manner and in compliance with a variety of requirements. He/she investigates and adjusts a variety of losses varying in size and complexity. He/she conducts witness interviews, takes statements and consults with police reports. An adjuster is required to report in a variety of ways - written, e-mail, on-line, and must present or elaborate on these findings, propose solutions and negotiation settlements and agreements with third parties, clients or other concerned parties. He/she is responsible for inspecting and/or evaluating damages when required, estimating costs or commercial value, examining reports or other documents, evaluating losses, establishing claims guidelines, and quantifying settlement amounts. An adjuster participates in private and/or mandatory mediation, settlement meetings, settlement conference, pre-trails, court proceedings and other dispute resolution as required. Loss adjusters are often hired by insurance companies, government services and independent adjusting firms. Some examples of roles within this field are: bodily injury (BI) claims, accident benefits (AB) claims, field claims representative, claims examiner, marine insurance coordinator, catastrophe adjusters, claims assistant, physical damage (PD) claims, claims specialist, telephone adjuster, road adjuster, property or liability adjuster, technical service representative, and call centre agents.

Do the following statements accurately describe you?

• You are currently enrolled in a health sciences, psychology, sociology, business or legal program at the post-secondary level.
• Your current studies involve complex knowledge of the human body, technical legal information and require superior communication and problem-solving skills.
• You are naturally inquisitive with a keen interest in criminal or civil investigation and strong computer proficiency
• You are a strong communicator with exceptional decision-making, problem-solving and investigation skills
• You are analytical, thorough and customer-service oriented.

If you answered yes to these statements, then a career as a loss adjuster might be the perfect fit!

A combination of the following qualifications would be helpful in gaining employment in the property and casualty insurance industry.

College/University

At the post-secondary level, a minimum education requirement is a general degree or specialized education in criminal studies, law and security, or business administration.

For a greater advantage, and the highest placement value, consider completing the business of insurance program. Use the links on the right to get connected.

Licensing

All independent adjusters must be licensed to carry out their responsibilities. Independent adjusters require a provincial license issued by the Superintendent of Insurance in the province or territory of employment.

Licensing qualifications are obtained while the applicant is employed by an independent adjusting firm. Yet course completion can take place prior to employment. Licensing requirements vary by province and often require candidates to complete a number of Insurance Institute courses. Use the links on the right to get connected.

EARNING POTENTIAL

Earning Potential for this role depends on education, experience, and geographic region. Much weight is given to those with specialized experience and education (ie fully licensed and/or CIP designation with specialization in adjusting). Many employers offer performance-linked bonuses.

Entry - Junior Level                          $35,000 - $45,000
Junior - Intermediate                       $45,000 - $75,000
Intermediate - Senior                      $80,000 - $100,000+

FUTURE PROSPECTS

Across Canada, employment opportunities for claims adjusters are on the rise. The increase is largely due to organizations' challenges in responding to losses and catastrophes. Loss adjusters will also need to replace retiring workers and meet the needs of an increasing population, especially in urban centres. This has already created a substantial number of job openings and professional opportunities.

A loss control specialist inspects businesses on behalf of insurance companies and provides loss prevention recommendations to reduce the frequency and severity of losses arising from fire, crime and liability. He/she is usually involved in large commercial and manufacturing risks where there are complex processes and many exposures to loss. He/she is trained to identify potential areas of concern - inspecting a fire prevention system, recommending the best way to store materials, developing supplementary computer systems and helping customers to understand their responsibilities for a faulty product. A loss control specialist personally inspects risks, determining degree of exposure to fire, crime or liability loss. He/she reports exposures to a variety of audiences and comprehension levels and recommends a course of action to reduce the frequency or severity of loss and eliminate loss exposure. A loss control specialist helps insurance companies to charge appropriate premiums and reduces the potential for losses that may be caused through injury, criminal activity or physical hazards. Some examples of roles within this field are: loss prevention engineer, loss prevention specialist, safety consultant, and risk consultant.

Do the following statements accurately describe you?

• You are currently enrolled in a mathematics, computer science or engineering program at the post-secondary level
• Your studies require you to use your investigative skills, read complex plans and documents while also developing your interpersonal and communication skills
• You have the ability to communicate with others from various backgrounds and levels within an organization
• You are self-motivated, outgoing, open-minded, and enjoy learning
• You are creative and analytical, with strong customer service skills
• You are comfortable using a variety of computer applications and have excellent report writing skills

If you answered yes to these statements, then a career as a loss control specialist might be the perfect fit!

A combination of the following qualifications would be helpful in gaining employment in the property and casualty insurance industry.

College/University

At the post-secondary level, a minimum educational requirement graduation from a college or university in a 3-4 year technical program, but more often a degree (PEng) in any engineering discipline is required. Such an education background provides a wide scope of knowledge to evaluate the physical and operational risks of properties. An applied science degree is also helpful in gaining employment.

EARNING POTENTIAL

Earning potential for this role is dependent upon education, experience, and geographic region. Much weight is given to those with specialized experience in auditing, loss prevention, risk management or other related trade experience. Many employers offer performance-linked bonuses.

Entry - Junior Level                        $34,000 - $50,000
Junior - Intermediate                       $50,000 - $70,000
Intermediate - Senior                      $100,000+

FUTURE PROSPECTS

Advancement opportunities are many and can entail moving into an underwriting position, becoming an insurance manager for companies or an insurance broker who places business with insurance companies.

A marketing representative works for an insurance company, promoting the company's products and services through its sales force - the brokers - to insurance consumers. All insurance companies want to lead in their respective markets, so marketing is a great deal more than just promotion. Marketing managers and executives need to look ahead to anticipate and identify the kind of new products required in a changing personal and commercial insurance environment. Marketers must constantly come up with new ideas to appeal to the consumer. Then, they need to develop products, pricing, test them in the marketplace and manage the processes of promotion, selling and distribution. Marketers are likely to be involved in marketing strategies, market research, brand positioning, public relations, promotional material design and delivering products and services to meet customer needs.

Do the following statements accurately describe you?

• You are currently enrolled in a marketing, finance or business administration program at the post-secondary level
• Your current studies focus on professionalism, team-work, time management, communication and interpersonal skills
• You have strong communication and interpersonal skills
• You are independent, organized and self-motivated
• You possess a high level of creativity and are comfortable giving presentations
• You have a high level of proficiency with computers and enjoy strategic planning.
• You have experience at a job or volunteer position where communication, customer-service and sales were important, such as a retail sales associate, waiter or waitress.

If you answered yes to these statements, then a career as a marketing representative might be the perfect fit!

A combination of the following qualifications would be helpful in gaining employment in the property and casualty insurance industry.

College/University

For a greater advantage, and the highest placement value, successful completion of a business of insurance program is recommended. Use the links on the right to get connected.

A college diploma or university degree in business administration or commerce is recommended for this role. Any subject is acceptable, though those that have studied business with specialization in finance, management or marketing would have an advantage.

Accredited by the Canadian Institute of Marketing, marketing certificate programs are available at the following colleges and universities:

Confederation College (Thunder Bay, Ontario)

Fanshawe College (London Ontario)

George Brown College (Toronto Ontario)

Georgian College (Barrie Ontario)

McMaster University (Hamilton, Ontario)

Mohawk College (Hamilton, Ontario)

Nipissing University (North Bay, Ontario)

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (Edmonton, Alberta)

Red River College (Winnipeg, Manitoba)

Sprott School of Business (Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario)

Professional Qualifications:

The role of marketing representative requires general knowledge of the insurance industry and its practices. To gain this knowledge, most marketing representatives are encouraged to obtain their Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation. Most, if not all, insurance organizations support their staff's continuing and professional education by providing financial support and time off for studying/writing exams. Get connected here for more information about the Insurance Institute's designation program.

EARNING POTENTIAL

Earning potential for this role depends on education, experience and geographic region. Much weight is given to those with specialized education (ie CIP designation), experience and skills. Many employers offer performance-linked bonuses.

Entry - Junior Level                         $35,000 - $45,000
Junior - Intermediate                       $45,000 - $70,000
Intermediate - Senior                      $75,000 - $100,000

FUTURE PROSPECTS

Roles in this area are incredibly varied, so marketing representatives are in great demand. Insurance businesses rely on business development managers and senior marketing managers to develop strategic plans to grow their business and improve service offerings. As businesses look for innovative ideas to improve business, the demand for marketing professionals will continue to grow. Employment trends in this area are directly related to consumer/business spending and have a tendency to be guided by the Canadian economy.

Risk managers or analysts specialize in identifying potential causes of accidents or loss, recommending and implementing preventive measures, and devising plans to minimize costs and damage should a loss occur, including the purchase of insurance.

In other words, they coordinate loss control systems for organizations and businesses that may include disaster recovery plans and emergency evacuations. Risk managers may work directly for large companies or independently as consultants, providing risk management services.

Responsibilities include directing the purchase of insurance programs, management of claims and loss control activities, management of relationships with third party service providers including brokers, and insurers, preparing loss analyses and budgets, identifying exposures, recommending solutions, implementing approved programs, promoting loss prevention, updating and monitoring compliance with insurance procedures and managing safety/risk management manuals.

Do the following statements accurately describe you?

• You are currently enrolled in a general arts, education, humanities or a business program at the post-secondary level
• Your current program of study requires the ability to communicate complex ideas, critical thinking, time-management and organization
• You have strong communication and interpersonal skills
• You are self-motivated, outgoing, open-minded, and enjoy learning new things
• You have excellent verbal and written communication skills
• You have strong analytical and judgment skills and pay attention to detail
• You have (or had) a part-time job that involves decision-making and problem-solving, interpersonal and communication skills, such as a nurses aide, restaurant server or retail sales associate.

If you answered yes to these statements, then a career as a risk manager might be the perfect fit!

A combination of the following qualifications would be helpful in gaining employment in the property and casualty insurance industry.

College/University

A college diploma or university degree in engineering science, commerce, business management and judicial studies are acceptable for entry into the profession, though those who have earned a degree or specialization in risk management are at a distinct advantage.

Licensing

There are no licensing requirements for this career at time of publication.

Professional Qualifications

The Canadian Risk Management (CRM) designation is recommended for a role in risk management. Learn more.

The Insurance Institute's Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) is the property and casualty insurance industry’s comprehensive professional program focusing on technical and applied career specific knowledge. Completion of the CIP with a concentration in Claims courses would be an asset in professional development and in gaining understanding of the claims process. Learn more.

The Insurance Institute's Fellow Chartered Insurance Professional (FCIP) is the property and casualty insurance industry’s premier designation denoting a level of professionalism above the CIP. Learn more.

EARNING POTENTIAL

Earning potential for this role depends on education, experience, and geographic region. Much weight is given to those with specialized experience either in fire, health and safety, liability, or law. Many companies offer performance-linked bonuses.

Entry – Junior Level > From $35, 000 – 40,000

Junior – Intermediate Level > From $40,000 – 60,000

Intermediate – Senior Level > $60, 000 - $80, 000

FUTURE PROSPECTS

Employment opportunities for risk managers are expected to increase. The increase will be largely due to the need for organizations to develop disaster recovery plans and pandemic response plans. Risk management will also need to replace retiring workers and meet the needs of an increasing population. This will create a substantial number of job openings and opportunities.

Risk managers have a lot of choice when it comes to choosing an employer. Risk managers are hired by oil and gas companies, rental car companies, schools, insurance companies, construction companies and much more. Other roles within this field are:

• Risk Analysts
• Risk Advisors
• Safety Consultant
• Loss Control Specialist
• Workers’ Compensation Claims & Insurance Manager
• Risk Consultants
• Environmental Risk Assessment Specialist
• Risk Analyst Engineer
• Director of Corporate Risk
• Nuclear Safety Advisor
• Credit Risk Analyst
• Chief Risk Officer
• And much more.

Additional Resources for this position

Risk and Insurance Management Society, Inc - RIMS Canada Council: rimscanada.rims.org

Energy Risk Management Association: www.ermacanada.com/board.html

An underwriter accepts or rejects risks on behalf of the insurance company. Brokers and agents submit applications of insurance on behalf of individuals or businesses and an underwriter reviews the applications and decides whether to offer insurance to the applicants (that is, whether to accept or reject the risk).  The underwriter decides what coverage is available, sets the premium and other terms the underwriter would require in accepting the risk.  He/she counsels clients on risk management solutions, negotiates terms and contracts, and develops relationships with key clients (ie brokers). During the policy term or at renewal, an underwriter reviews existing client portfolios and determines whether the insurance company should continue to provide insurance coverage for the risk. An underwriter needs to be aware of current industry trends through development of a good working relationship with brokers and other sources of industry news and developments.

Do the following statements accurately describe you?

• You are currently enrolled in a mathematics, computer science, finance or business program at the post secondary level
• Your current studies focus on communication skills, problem-solving and analysis.
• You have aptitude in math and are comfortable using a variety of computer applications
• You have excellent verbal and written communication skills
• You have strong analytical and judgment skills and pay attention to detail
• You are a creative thinker with a natural curiosity
• You have strong organizational and time management skills
• You have had a job or volunteer position that required communication, organization and time-management skills such as a web programmer

If you answered yes to these statements, then a career as an underwriter might be the perfect fit!

A combination of the following qualifications would be helpful in gaining employment as an Underwriter in the property and casualty insurance industry.

College/University

For a greater advantage, and the highest placement value, successful completion of a business of insurance program is strongly recommended. Learn more.

Applicants with a background or degree in actuarial sciences would also be highly regarded. A college diploma or university degree in business administration, economics, or commerce is recommended for this role. Learn more.

Licensing

Some organizations may require an applicant to possess a life, broker or agent license. Learn more.

Professional Qualifications

Most underwriters are expected to begin working towards their Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation after accepting this position. Most, if not all, insurance organizations support their staff's continuing and professional education by providing financial support and time off for studying/writing exams. Learn more.

EARNING POTENTIAL

Earning potential for this role depends on education, experience, and geographic region. Much weight is given to those with specialized experience and many companies offer bonuses linked to performance goals and achievement of industry recognized designations, such as the CIP and CRM designations.

Entry - Junior Level                          $30,000 - $45,000
Junior - Intermediate                       $50,000 - $70,000
Intermediate - Senior                      $70,000 - $200,000

FUTURE PROSPECTS

Experienced underwriters may also find opportunities in brokering, claims, risk management or actuarial sciences. Underwriters could choose to move into reinsurance to handle complex cases and high levels of risk. They might also progress into specialized fields such as marine or aviation insurance. If you speak one or more languages, there are also possibilities to work globally.

There is already a growing demand for underwriters due to population growth and retirement. In the industry, underwriters would find employment at insurance companies, reinsurance companies, and in government with opportunities to specialize in areas such as aviation, marine and municipality.