The Accel Group is one of the largest independent and privately held insurance agencies in the Midwest, with over 120 employees across eight locations and four states.  We have a strong history of over 90 years in business, and we pride ourselves on providing customized solutions to both individuals and businesses.  Our dedicated team offers a professional approach and personal touch to meet each customer’s unique needs.  Products and services include Personal Insurance, Business Insurance, Claims & Risk Management, Employee Benefits, AgriBusiness Insurance, and Wealth Management Services.

Position Summary

The Customer Service Specialist plays a vital role in the organization by serving as a welcoming face to the office, offering friendly service to clients, and supporting daily office operations. Specific duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Answer agency phone calls and transfer customers to the appropriate team member in a polite and professional manner.
• Greet walk-in customers and visitors in a friendly and welcoming manner. Offer refreshments as needed and direct them to the appropriate team member.
• Maintain the cleanliness and professional appearance of our customer waiting area, conference rooms, and other public areas throughout the office.
• Responsible for incoming and outgoing mail, which includes postage, sorting, scanning, and distribution. Also, coordinate the pick-up and delivery of express mail services such as FedEx and UPS.
• Monitor the email inboxes for general agency inquiries and internal support requests.
• Provide administrative support and project assistance to other departments as needed. Examples include typing, scanning, copying, printing, faxing, filing, mailing, etc.
• Work in cooperation with other team members to ensure proper coverage of the phones and front desk during absences, and to ensure the smooth, efficient operation of the office.
• Assist with other projects or tasks as needed, including but not limited to:
• • Office and IT supplies and inventory.
  • Vendor contracts and supplies.
  • Employee licenses, designations, and continuing education requirements.
  • Carrier contracting and appointment paperwork.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience in a receptionist, office assistant, or other customer service role.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in work.
• Ability to work independently with minimal daily supervision.
• Ability to organize and prioritize a variety of projects and tasks in an effective and timely manner.
• Ability to utilize agency management systems, Microsoft programs, and the Internet.
• Ability to utilize basic office equipment, such as a computer, keyboard, mouse, monitors, printer, copier, and scanner.

Other Requirements

• All offers of employment are contingent upon the satisfactory completion of a pre-employment background check.

Location & Flexible Work Options

• This is an in-person position located in our Cedar Rapids office. The work schedule is Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (with a 30-minute lunch).

Compensation & Benefits

This is a full-time position that comes with a comprehensive benefits package and an hourly wage that corresponds with relevant experience.  Benefits include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts
• Life and disability insurance
• Accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance
• 401k retirement plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness reimbursements
• Paid time off, paid holidays, paid bereavement, and paid volunteer hours
• Casual dress code