Mortgage Underwriter I

This role is responsible for examining loan documentation for accuracy and completeness, ensuring loans are adhering to company policies, investor guidelines, and regulatory requirements as well as analyzing risk. The ideal candidate will have a strong underwriting background in Conforming/Agency & FHA guidelines.

Hours:  Monday - Friday 8:30am-5pm

Minimum of 40 hours/week

*Hours may vary based on business needs and may change at any time

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Thoroughly review all loan files for accuracy and completeness according to Agency and / or bank guidelines
• Verify that all automated underwriting systems contain accurate information
• Maintain a current and sound understanding of all agency, investor, Bank policies and guidelines
• Completes credit, analysis of income, analysis of the property, ensures proper audits are completed and verifies the consistency of loan file information
• Identifies risk factors within each loan and utilizes resources, tools, and documentation to detect red flags and clear inconsistencies
• Pipeline management – provide timely and high-quality performance review 
• Ensure loans meet the Ability to Repay (APR) when applicable and other compliance requirements
• Demonstrate proficiency in automated underwriting systems (DU & LPA)
• Maintain pre-established service level standards
• Communicates with processors, sales teams, and operations teams to resolve outstanding issues as they arise.
• Applies and interprets company underwriting guidelines and makes sound credit decisions.
• Consistently meet or exceed established productivity and qualify goals set forth by Management
• Perform other duties as assigned (HELOC renewals, Construction draw confirmation, PMI Removal and Assumptions)
• Minor consumer loan underwriting 
• Assists departmental support staff when necessary
• Performs other duties as assigned

Requirements:

• High School diploma or GED required
• 3+ years of secondary underwriting experience
• Certifications: DE (Direct Endorsement) 
• Strong knowledge of mortgage lending systems (e.g., Encompass, Loan Origination Systems) and automated underwriting systems (DU/LPA). Encompass loan software experience preferred.
• Ability to assess complex financial documents, SE income calculations, appraisals, and construction budgets.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to identify underwriting risks and provide sound solutions.
• A thorough knowledge of mortgage loan underwriting.
• Maintains highly confidential information concerning loan applicants.
• Requires a high level of organizational skills and ability to work on several tasks simultaneously.
• Constant contact with Loan Officers and internal office staff.
• Significant coordination of various duties required.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to handle detailed assignments.
• Strong customer service skills.
• Ability to organize and prioritize workload and meet deadlines.
• Excellent computer skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Must comply with applicable laws and regulations, including but not limited to, Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT Act) and the requirements of the Office of Foreign Assets Control. Additionally, all employees must follow policies and procedures to minimize risk by exercising good judgment, raising questions to management, and adhering to policy guidelines.

Critical Competencies:

• Communication
• Collaboration
• Time Management
• Confidentiality

****Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities****     

Our company is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Applicants can learn more about their rights by viewing the federal EEO poster at https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf