Mortgage Underwriter II

Job Description:

The Mortgage Underwriter II is responsible for reviewing and evaluating residential mortgage loan applications to ensure compliance with lending policies, secondary market investor guidelines, and all applicable regulations. This role requires underwriting a wide range of loan types—including Conventional, FHA, VA, RD, Jumbo, Bond, and Portfolio loans—while maintaining high standards for quality, consistency, and customer service. The Underwriter collaborates with internal teams to ensure timely and accurate loan decisions, supports compliance efforts, and contributes to training and development within the mortgage operations team.

Qualifications:
A bachelor’s degree and at least seven years of experience underwriting all major mortgage loan types are required, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The ideal candidate possesses Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Direct Endorsement (DE) and Veterans Affairs (VA) Lender Appraisal Processing Program (LAPP) credentials, strong analytical skills, and sound judgment in loan decisioning. Proficiency in Automated Underwriting Systems (AUS) (Desktop Underwriter (DU), Loan Product Advisor (LP), and Guaranteed Underwriting System (GUS), working knowledge of Ability to Repay (ATR)/Qualified Mortgage (QM), and experience with Encompass Loan Origination System (LOS) are preferred. The role demands strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities under deadlines. A commitment to integrity, efficiency, and mentorship within the team is essential.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Underwrite Conventional, FHA, VA, RD, Bond, Jumbo, and Portfolio loans in accordance with internal and investor guidelines.
• Analyze mortgage loan files to ensure compliance with regulatory, investor, and bank standards.
• Communicate underwriting decisions clearly and professionally to internal stakeholders.
• Serve as a subject matter expert and resource for loan officers and processing staff.
• Maintain awareness of industry trends, regulations, and guideline updates.
• Meet or exceed service-level expectations and turn-time standards.
• Review new and resubmitted files, final conditions, and documentation for underwriting approval.
• Respond promptly to audit findings and post-closing issues.
• Assist in training and mentoring underwriting and processing staff.
• Support ongoing improvement of underwriting practices and documentation processes.
• Participate in departmental meetings and provide input on operational improvements.
• Act in accordance with FBT policies and procedures as set forth in the employee handbook.
• Adhere to compliance procedures and participate in required compliance training.

Compensation Grade

First Bank & Trust is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Read our complete Equal Employment Opportunity Policy Statement. Applicants who would like to request reasonable accommodation to the application or interview process should call Human Resources at 800.843.1552 or email hr@bankeasy.com.