Operations Intern (Applications) - Summer 2025

Operations Intern (Applications) - Summer 2025

Please note that we do not offer visa sponsorship for this position.

ROLE SUMMARY:

The Life Insurance Application Operations Internship is designed to provide students and recent graduates with hands-on experience in every phase of the life insurance application process. Interns will rotate through various operational functions, gaining a deep understanding of how applications are processed, policies are issued, and customer needs are met efficiently. This program offers a unique opportunity to learn how life insurance operations support the overall success of the business.

Interns will engage in activities that encompass the full process of a life insurance application, from submission and underwriting to policy issuance and post-issue services. By the end of the internship, participants will have a holistic view of how operations drive successful outcomes for both the company and its clients.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Application Intake: Assist with receiving and reviewing incoming life insurance applications, ensuring all required documentation is accurate and complete.
• Data Entry & Verification: Input application data into company systems and verify accuracy of information against submitted documents.
• Underwriting Support: Collaborate with underwriting teams to facilitate the review of applications, providing operational support by organizing documents, communicating requirements, and tracking case statuses.
• Risk Assessment Coordination: Learn about the underwriting process, including medical reviews, financial evaluations, and risk assessment procedures, supporting the team in gathering necessary client information.
• Policy Administration: Support policy setup once an application is approved, including final documentation, policy creation, and the issuance of certificates to clients.
• Client Communication: Communicate with applicants, agents, and internal teams to provide status updates, request additional information, and address inquiries related to the application process.
• Claims and Post-Issuance Services: Gain exposure to post-issue services, such as policy modifications, beneficiary changes, and claims processing, contributing to smooth operations in these areas.
• Process Improvement Initiatives: Participate in projects aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, streamlining processes, and improving client experience across the entire application lifecycle.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Assist in tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) related to application processing times, accuracy, and customer satisfaction, contributing to data-driven decision-making.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Business Administration, Insurance, Finance, Operations, or a related field.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data handling.
• Excellent communication skills, with a client-focused approach.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); familiarity with insurance or CRM software is a plus.
• Interest in learning about life insurance and the operational processes that support it.

HOW YOU SHOW UP:

Empathy: Displaying compassion, active listening, and a supportive attitude when interacting with clients or colleagues in complex situations.

Organizational Skills: Keeping track of multiple applications, deadlines, and communications without letting details slip through the cracks, prioritizing tasks effectively

Curiosity and a Desire to Learn: Asking questions, seeking to understand the “why” behind tasks, and being genuinely interested in how the life insurance business functions.

Attention to Detail: Being thorough and precise in completing tasks, double-checking work, and ensuring accuracy in client and policy information.

Integrity: Maintaining confidentiality, adhering to company protocols, and acting ethically in all interactions.

Adaptability: Being open to shifting priorities, quickly learning new systems or tasks, and remaining composed in unfamiliar or dynamic situations.

Resilience: Showing perseverance when faced with difficulties, maintaining a positive attitude during busy times, and recovering quickly from mistakes or obstacles.

Strong Work Ethic: Interns with a strong work ethic will contribute positively to the team and help ensure operational efficiency.

Strong Communication Skills: Communicating clearly and professionally with both internal teams and clients, ensuring information is conveyed accurately and in a timely manner.

Self-Motivation and Initiative: Taking initiative, being reliable in completing tasks on time, and going above and beyond in delivering quality work.

Problem-Solving Ability: Analyzing situations, proposing practical solutions, and contributing ideas for process improvements or service enhancements.

Collaboration and Teamwork: Being cooperative, respectful, supportive, and open to the ideas of others while working on group projects or when assisting colleagues.

Patience: Remaining calm and composed when faced with challenging tasks or interactions, taking the time to ensure things are done correctly.

Self-Motivation: Proactively seeking tasks, managing time effectively, and completing projects without needing continual reminders or oversight.

What you will gain:

• Comprehensive understanding of the life insurance application process, from submission to policy issuance.
• Practical experience in key operational areas including data entry, underwriting support, and policy administration.
• Exposure to both front-end (client-facing) and back-end operations that support business success.
• A chance to work closely with underwriting, customer service, and post-issue departments, building a holistic view of life insurance operations.
• Hands-on experience with industry-specific tools and software for application tracking and data management.
• Professional development through mentorship, collaborative projects, and cross-departmental exposure.
• Insight into how life insurance operations contribute to policyholder satisfaction and company growth.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:

• 10-week paid internship (June 3-Aug 8) with formal orientation and onboarding
• Networking opportunities with peers and leaders throughout the summer
• Cross-Departmental group project focused on an enterprise-wide solution presented at company-wide event
• Presentation skills coaching sessions
• Learning opportunities throughout program
• Access to mentors (former program participants)

The base compensation range represents the low and high end of the range for this position. Actual compensation will vary and may be above or below the range based on various factors including but not limited to qualifications, skills, competencies, location, and experience. The range listed is just one component of our total compensation package for employees.

Other rewards may include an annual bonus, quarterly bonuses, commissions, and other long-term incentive compensation, depending on the position.  National Life offers a competitive total rewards package which includes: a 401(k) retirement plan match; medical, dental, and vision insurance; a company funded wellness account for director and below employees; 10 paid holidays; a generous paid time off plan (22 days of combined time-off for non-exempt employees and exempt employees have discretion in managing their time, including scheduling time off in the normal course of business, but in no event will exempt employees receive less sick time than required by state or local law); 6 weeks of paid parental leave; and 6 weeks of paid family leave after a year of full-time employment.

National Life is accepting applications for this role on an ongoing basis and the role remains open until filled.   

National Life Group® is a trade name of National Life Insurance Company, Montpelier, VT – founded in 1848, Life Insurance Company of the Southwest, Addison, TX – chartered in 1955, and their affiliates. Each company of National Life Group is solely responsible for its own financial condition and contractual obligations. Life Insurance Company of the Southwest is not an authorized insurer in New York and does not conduct insurance business in New York. Equity Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC, is a Broker/Dealer and Registered Investment Adviser affiliate of National Life Insurance Company. All other entities are independent of the companies of National Life Group.

National Life Group

1 National Life Dr

Montpelier, VT 05604

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