Surveyor - KZN

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

This career opportunity is available at Santam Commercial Underwriting, Survey Department for a Surveyor to be based in Durban.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Risk Surveyor is tasked with assessing risk while applying technical knowledge. Surveyors conduct detailed risk assessments on the risk, as well as provide an in-depth view to underwriters, assisting them to underwrite the risk appropriately, more specifically:

• Conducting desktop and physical surveys.


• Review external surveys as required and provide a summary of the risk and risk reduction requirements.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The role of a surveyors is to understand all types of risks and its exposures that we write and provide a view on whether continued business is viable.  This required risk surveyors to be technically skilled.  The risk information provided by the surveyors allows the organisation to determine whether the risk will be treated, tolerated, terminated or transferred. This function is at the core of capabilities provided by the risk surveying team. The role of the risk surveyors translates Santam’s aspiration of being a risk management partner into action.

The surveying role is a critical function within risk services. Surveyors conduct site inspections and evaluate risks based on information provided by clients, and by desktop reviews of previous surveys and information and photographs provided by clients and brokers.

This role allows for a surveyor to work independently and to assess risks according to Santam’s and National standards.  This position has a training component in that in order to become proficient in more complex risks the surveyor may work under supervision of a Senior and Head Surveyor as well as provide some on the job training where required.  The surveyor will work within the prescribed parameters of the role and the relevant Head Surveyor.

This role may have a consulting function where the surveyor will be called upon to consult on risks and to provide advice to Surveyors, Underwriters, Relationship managers, Technical managers, Brokers and Clients regarding the risk and alternatives to the risk reduction requirements.

Survey delivery requirements:

• Conduct surveys within the required SLA


• Achieve the agreed productivity levels


• Provide feedback and corrections to supervised surveys


• Provide feedback on all queries received


• Provide the appropriate advice to clients, Brokers and internal staff as required


• Review external survey report and provide feedback


• Understanding all the legislative requirements/Bylaws


• Understanding the area of operations and hazards (Geographical areas and risks associated) (Process in respect of production and the function and safety of the machinery)


• Interact with various stakeholders (distribution, operations, underwriting and intermediaries) to ensure delivery of our world class surveying competency.


• Provide feedback and comment on rational designs.

Stakeholders 

• Engage with internal and external stake holders (Broker Distribution, Operations etc.) to get buy-in and understanding of our need to survey risks and ensure effective execution of survey processes.


• Provide surveying guidance and support to all Santam Group companies including MiWay, SEM, Namibia and Specialist business as required.


• Engage with external stakeholders (brokers) to educate/ inform, where relevant, and explain survey processes or risk reduction requirements

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• 3+years  of risk surveying


• Fire Service Qualification


• Technical Engineering Degree or Diploma, or relevant qualification, Minimum NQF level 4  


• Valid driver’s license 


• Computer literate in Excel, Word, Presentations, etc.


• FPA advanced courses, risk prevention strategies, technical training for related risks - entry level Prive', high hazard risks, thatch.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Ability to learn and research


• Ability to manage own work environment


• Good analytical and problem solving skills and abilities


• Communication Skills


• Understanding of basic fire hazards, firefighting, risk identification


• Basic report writing


• Use of MS Office Products


• Use of policy information systems


• Work in other regions


• Capacity to operate under pressure


• Self-starter


• Knowledge of Underwriting and underwriting processes


• Knowledge of the policy wording

COMPETENCIES

• Collaboration


• Client focus


• Drives results  


• Flexibility and adaptability


• Cultivates innovation


• Relating and networking


• Analysing and attention to detail


• Applying expertise and technology


• Learning and researching


• Time management Planning and organising


• Writing and reporting 

ABOUT SANTAM

Santam is the market leader in the general insurance industry in Southern Africa. As a large, diversified, and expanding company, we are committed to transformation and growth. While our headquarters are in South Africa, we are rapidly extending our presence into emerging markets across Africa and Asia.

With a client base of over 1 million policyholders, Santam serves individuals, commercial enterprises, specialist business owners, and institutions—including 80 of the Top 100 companies listed on the JSE. Our commitment to Insurance, Good and Proper goes beyond just providing cover—we offer peace of mind, ensuring our clients can focus on living in the moment, not worrying about the unexpected. Because at Santam, we believe the freedom to seize every day is worth protecting.

People drive our business, and we are committed to attracting the best talent, whether for permanent roles or short-term opportunities. 

Santam is committed to diversity, inclusion, and belonging. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including persons with disabilities. We are dedicated to neuro-inclusivity and fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive. 

Take the next step in your career—apply now and be part of a company that’s shaping the future of insurance. This is Freedom!