Senior Underwriter

NFM Lending • Columbus, OH

3d

About The Position

Position Summary: The Senior Mortgage Underwriter is responsible for evaluating residential loan applications to ensure sound credit decisions in accordance with investor guidelines, regulatory requirements, and company policies. This role serves as a subject matter expert in complex loan scenarios, provides mentorship to junior underwriters, and supports cross-functional collaboration to drive operational excellence, risk mitigation, and superior service delivery.

Requirements

• College degree in business, finance, or a related field preferred; equivalent professional experience will be considered.
• Minimum of five (5) years of mortgage underwriting experience.
• FHA Direct Endorsement (DE) certification with at least two (2) years of FHA underwriting experience required.
• VA Credit/SAR authority with a minimum of two (2) years of VA underwriting experience required or in progress.
• Experience underwriting a variety of loan products, including Bond, Jumbo, USDA, and other specialty programs (minimum of two years).
• Strong knowledge of agency, investor, and regulatory underwriting standards (FNMA, FHLMC, FHA, VA, USDA).
• Excellent analytical, credit evaluation, and decision-making skills with a focus on detail and accuracy.
• Proficient in loan origination systems (e.g., Encompass) and automated underwriting tools.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and in a collaborative environment.
• Proven ability to meet deadlines and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced setting.

Nice To Haves

• Certification as a Mortgage Underwriter preferred.

Responsibilities

• Underwrite residential mortgage loan files within delegated authority, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to guidelines.
• Analyze borrower income, credit, assets, liabilities, and collateral to determine risk and loan eligibility.
• Assess appraisal reports and property valuations to confirm loan-to-value (LTV) and property eligibility.
• Issue clear and well-supported decisions, including approvals, counteroffers, suspensions, and denials.
• Maintain compliance with all applicable federal and state laws, agency/investor guidelines, and internal policies.
• Meet or exceed established service level agreements (SLAs) for underwriting turn times.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior underwriters and support staff.
• Collaborate with loan officers, processors, and closers to resolve conditions and expedite loan decisions.
• Identify potential fraud indicators, misrepresentation, or red flags, and escalate appropriately.
• Support quality control and audit readiness by ensuring documentation and data integrity.
• Stay informed of changes in underwriting guidelines, industry best practices, and regulatory developments.
• Accurately document underwriting decisions and maintain system records with complete audit trails.
• Deliver exceptional customer service to internal teams and external partners to enhance the loan experience.
• Participate in special projects or initiatives as assigned.

Benefits

• Qualifying employees are eligible to participate in our Total Rewards program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level