Application Support Analyst

Hastings Insurance is seeking a Application Support to join its Central Business Operations (CBO) team! The Application Support Analyst plays a pivotal role in ensuring that IT understands business requirements by creating a strategic relationship between the business and IT. They deliver support to end users in the organization about how to use various types of software programs efficiently and effectively in fulfilling business objectives. This includes troubleshooting applications and software, resolving system issues and facilitating user-based testing. The Application Support Analyst is responsible for assisting in the design, delivery, and improvement of in-house software applications training programs and related documentation.

Position Location & Schedule Details 

• Candidates residing within one of our five coverage states (Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, or Wisconsin) will be considered to work remotely. Occasional travel to our Hastings, Michigan, corporate headquarters may be required.

• Candidates residing in greater Hastings or Grand Rapids, Michigan, can work remotely, hybrid, or full-time onsite.

• Candidates outside our five-state region may be considered if other application elements are strong.

• Regardless of the location, the individual in this role will generally work within our standard office hours of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Given the nature of the role, some work may occur outside of these hours.  

Position Duties & Responsibilities

• Collaborates in the planning, design, development, and deployment of new applications, and enhancements to existing applications.

• Sets up system access and user security within the department for a variety of systems.

• Provides testing support on behalf of the appropriate HI Department(s) when new processes or procedures are introduced.

• Collaborates with other departments to resolve production support issues and implement new systems or procedures.

• Documents problems and solutions into the applicable case tracking system(s).

• Develops and maintains procedural and reference manuals for use by all system users.

• Provides input to the business in the development of system training material.

• Communicates process changes, enhancements, and modifications to management, peers, staff, and other employees, so that issues and solutions are understood.

• Collaborates with analysts, developers, designers, and system owners in the testing of new software and applications.

• Analyzes formal test results in order to discover and resolve defects, bugs, errors, and configuration issues.

• Aids with technical projects, updates, enhancements, and testing for the various systems.

• Researches, reviews, and analyzes existing processes and process improvements with business to develop strategies for enhancing or further leveraging these processes.

• Ensures compatibility and interoperability of in-house and third-party computing systems.

• Reviews and analyzes the effectiveness and efficiency of new and existing systems and develop test cases for user acceptance testing.

• Assists with the preparation, validation, and submission of data for financial and compliance reporting.

• Evaluates, plans, designs, and deploys testing techniques for new applications, products, and/or enhancements to existing applications throughout their development/product lifecycles.

• Provides guidance and/or instruction to junior staff members.

• Coordinates and performs in-depth tests, including end-user reviews, for modified and new processes, and other post-implementation support.

• Actively participates in professional development, i.e. continuing education or self-improvement.

• Other duties assigned by leadership, either verbally or in writing.

Candidate Requirements & Qualifications

• Associates degree in a related field or equivalent education is required.

• One to three years of experience in insurance is required. Three to five years of experience in insurance is preferred.

• High level of experience with the core software applications is required.

• A strong understanding of the SDLC, which includes design, development, testing, and implementation of software solutions, systems, or products.

• Experience in overseeing the design, development, and implementation of software testing solutions is required.

• Experience in coordinating activities, analyzing situations, and problem solving.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills.

• Working knowledge of importing data for use in report software, spreadsheets, graphs, and flowcharts.

• A strong understanding of the organization’s goals and objectives.

• Demonstrated project management skills.

• Demonstrated PC skills including proficient use of Microsoft Office products.

About Us

At Hastings Insurance, our balanced corporate strategy focuses on implementing emerging technologies, cultivating strong independent agency relationships, and providing the right products to our policyholders. We seek to strategically grow our product lines and continue to expand geographically while maintaining our financial stability and innovative nature.

Our talented employees are dedicated to providing excellent customer service to our agent partners and policyholders. Many of our employees have been identified as industry experts, and we value the knowledge and skills they contribute to our success.

For more than 135 years, Hastings has helped our customers protect their valued assets and rebuild after devastating losses. We are proud to be rated an A (Excellent) insurance carrier by A.M. Best Company. 

Our Commitment as an Employer 

We value the strength of a diverse and inclusive workforce. Hastings Insurance is committed to providing equal opportunity for all employees and candidates in a work environment that does not tolerate discrimination or harassment. Decisions related to employment are based on business needs, position requirements, and individual characteristics without regard to appearance, nationality, origin, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, body, disability, veteran, family, marital status, or any legally protected class.  
 
Hastings Insurance seeks to provide reasonable accommodation to disabled individuals in the hiring process in compliance with federal, state, and local law. Candidates requiring accommodation to complete their job application or participate in the interviewing process are asked to notify the Talent Acquisition Specialist or contact us at 800-442-8277.