Insurance professionals in DSM... ? (Des Moines, West Des Moines: relocating, salary, jobs)

[nascar9girl]

Hi all! Quick question for you! I currently work for a smaller insurance company in WDM as a client rep/acct mgr. I have my L/A/H and prop/casualty licenses in all 50 states.

I have recently completed my second interview with a much larger employer with branches all over the U.S. The position is as an entry-level commercial underwriter. I think that the interviews have gone well, but now am being asked the salary question.

I have done all of the online salary guide calculators, but have heard that they can be as much as 20% higher than the norm. Most have entry-level underwriters making anywhere from $37,000 to $47,000, with most in the $42,000 range. I don't know any underwriters that I can fall back on for help with this, so if anyone out there has experience in this field... help! Right now, I'm bringing in low 30's... is it unrealistic to expect an increase in pay of $5-6k?

Thanks!!!

[nascar9girl]

I should add that I am considering jobs in both Des Moines or relocating to the Kansas City area. I know that cost of living is fairly comparable between the two (or, at least in the suburbs of West Des Moines vs. Overland Park, etc), so it's really just a matter of finding "the right fit." Thanks!

[Nicnatros]

For an "entry level position" I'd say to look at the lower end of the pay scale. I believe the high end usually applies to people that are either over qualified or have many many years in that exact position.

I have no experience in the insurance biz but that's just my thought.