Direct Endorsement Mortgage Underwriter

Why This Role Matters

As a Direct Endorsement Mortgage Underwriter, you'll be at the heart of our mortgage approval process. You'll review and underwrite conventional, government, and portfolio loans to ensure each application meets investor guidelines and regulatory requirements. By analyzing financial data and issuing sound credit decisions, you'll help maintain the credit union's reputation for responsible lending while empowering members to reach their homeownership goals. Your expertise will also support mortgage staff through collaboration, guidance, and training.

What You'll Do

Core Responsibilities

• Loan Review & Underwriting: Underwrite conventional, government, and portfolio mortgages according to investor and internal guidelines.
• File Evaluation: Analyze loan files for accuracy, income, assets, liabilities, credit history, ratios (LTV, DTI), and overall risk.
• Condition Management: Issue and clear conditions needed to complete files prior to closing.
• Property & Legal Review: Evaluate appraisals and title commitments to confirm conformity and lien position.
• Post-Closing Support: Respond to exceptions for loans sold on the secondary market or retained in the portfolio.
• Member Advocacy: Recommend appropriate products and loan structures that support members' creditworthiness and ability to repay.
• Collaboration & Support: Serve as a resource to Mortgage Loan Officers and train new mortgage underwriters.
• Risk Management: Warrant investor compliance, recommend financing alternatives, and ensure adherence to regulatory standards.

Who You Are

Experience & Education

• 5-7 years of similar or related mortgage underwriting experience
• 3-5 years of experience with secondary market lending
• Associate's degree or equivalent experience
• Direct Endorsement Certification required

Skills & Strengths

• Strong knowledge of federal and state mortgage regulations
• Exceptional attention to detail and risk analysis
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and make informed decisions
• Adept at reviewing complex financial and legal documentation
• Self-motivated with strong organizational and time management skills

Key Traits

• Maintains confidentiality and professionalism at all times
• Values accuracy, efficiency, and service
• Demonstrates a member-first mindset
• Collaborates effectively with team members across departments

What's in It for You?

• Competitive salary and industry-leading benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• A chance to make a lasting impact on our members and the organization's future.

Legalese

Equal Opportunity Employer

UKFCU is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

At-Will Employment

Employment with UKFCU is deemed "at-will," which means that either you or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, unless otherwise provided by law.

Physical and Cognitive Demands

This role requires a blend of physical activity and mental focus to effectively perform its essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role. Key physical activities include sitting, standing, walking, and occasional lifting (up to 25 pounds). You'll also use your hands for various tasks, reach with your arms, and engage in conversations. Vision requirements include the ability to focus, perceive depth, and distinguish colors. Cognitive abilities essential for this role include judgment, auditory perception, memory, reasoning, and occasional persuasion.

Work Environment

You'll primarily work indoors in a comfortable, climate-controlled office setting. The noise level is typically moderate, ensuring a focused yet dynamic work environment. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed to support an inclusive workplace.

This job description provides a general overview of the responsibilities and expectations for this role. It is not a comprehensive list of tasks, and employees may be asked to take on additional duties to support team success.