Senior Credit Underwriter

About the Role: The Senior Credit Underwriter is responsible for leading complex credit underwriting activities while serving as a trusted advisor to the Chief Lending Officer. This role provides expertise in Non-QM mortgage lending, evaluates complex borrower scenarios, structures credit solutions, and supports sound lending decisions that balance risk and business objectives. In addition to underwriting, the role oversees underwriting teams, mentors junior underwriters, drives process improvements, and collaborates cross-functionally to improve credit quality, operational efficiency, and funded loan volume.

What You'll Be Doing: (Key Responsibilities) Act as the Chief Lending Officer's 'right hand' trusted advisor Perform early credit assessments ("shift-left") before processing is complete Rework denied loans into approvable structures where possible Recommend counteroffers that reduce risk while preserving profitability Identify compensating factors to strengthen borderline files Consult with Sales on structuring loans before submission Participate in daily pipeline review meetings Assist in developing underwriting guidelines and SOPs Analyze trends in denials and fallout to recommend policy or process changes Support automation efforts by documenting underwriting decision logic Serve as the subject matter expert for complex borrower scenarios RequirementsEducation: Bachelor's or Associate's degree

Experience: 10+ years of progressive underwriting experience in non-QM mortgage lending.

Must-Have: RequirementsPlease ensure you met all of the following before applying: 10+ years of progressive underwriting experience in Non-QM residential mortgage lending Proven expertise in credit analysis, risk assessment, and loan structuring, with the ability to evaluate complex borrower scenarios and develop viable lending solutions Strong knowledge of Non-QM loan products, including DSCR, Bank Statement, Asset Depletion, Foreign National, ITIN, and other alternative documentation programs Experience interpreting credit policies, underwriting guidelines, and applicable mortgage regulations (e.g., ATR/QM, TRID, RESPA, TILA), with the ability to make sound, consistent credit decisions. Remote Work RequirementsStable, reliable internet connection Professional and dedicated remote working setup Preferred Background / Industry Experience: Non QM residential mortgage lending / MCA lending

Key Soft Skills: Critical Thinking - Evaluates complex borrower scenarios, weighs risk objectively, and makes sound credit decisions based on facts rather than assumptions Analytical Mindset - Identifies trends, assesses layered risk, and connects multiple data points to determine overall creditworthiness Sound Judgment - Balances prudent risk management with business objectives, knowing when to approve, restructure, or decline a loan Problem Solving - Finds creative, policy-compliant solutions to structure challenging loans instead of defaulting to denial Attention to Detail - Thoroughly reviews financials, documentation, and loan files to identify inconsistencies, omissions, or potential risks Communication - Clearly explains underwriting decisions, credit rationale, and conditions to Sales, Processing, and leadership Collaboration - Partners effectively with Sales, Processing, Valuation, Legal, and Closing to move loans efficiently while maintaining credit quality Decision Making Under Pressure - Makes timely, confident decisions in a fast-paced environment without sacrificing accuracy or consistency Coaching & Mentorship - Develops junior underwriters by sharing expertise, reinforcing best practices, and promoting consistent credit decisions Integrity & Accountability - Demonstrates strong ethical standards, takes ownership of decisions, and consistently applies credit policy with fairness and discipline Specific Technical Skills Needed: Credit Analysis & Risk Assessment - Expertise in evaluating borrower creditworthiness, repayment capacity, collateral, and layered risk. Non-QM Underwriting - Deep knowledge of Non-QM products, including DSCR, Bank Statement, Asset Depletion, Foreign National, ITIN, and other alternative documentation programs. Income, Asset & Cash Flow Analysis - Ability to analyze tax returns, business financials, bank statements, P&Ls, CPA letters, and asset documentation. Collateral & Valuation Review - Experience reviewing appraisals, BPOs, AVMs/IVDs, title reports, LTV/CLTV calculations, and collateral risk. Loan Structuring - Ability to restructure marginal loans, evaluate compensating factors, and develop counteroffers that meet credit policy while maximizing approvals. Credit Policy & Guideline Interpretation - Strong understanding of internal credit policies, investor overlays, and regulatory requirements, with the ability to consistently apply judgment. Regulatory Compliance - Working knowledge of ATR/QM, TRID, RESPA, TILA, Fair Lending, and applicable federal and state lending regulations. Financial & Data Analysis - Advanced proficiency in Excel and the ability to analyze underwriting metrics, portfolio trends, and credit performance. Exception & Portfolio Management - Experience evaluating policy exceptions, monitoring portfolio credit quality, and supporting quality control and audit reviews. Loan Origination Systems (LOS) - Hands‑on experience with Encompass, Byte, LendingPad, or similar LOS platforms, including underwriting workflow and condition management