Real Estate Underwriter - Mortgage Lending
Location: Irwindale, CA (Hybrid options available)
At Rize Credit Union, we don't just process loans-we create pathways for members to achieve their goals. That's where you come in! We're looking for a Real Estate Underwriter to join our Real Estate team and help ensure every loan decision is thoughtful, accurate, and member-centered. With your expertise, you'll play a key role in guiding members toward smart lending solutions while keeping compliance and quality at the heart of what we do.
What You'll Do
As a Real Estate Underwriter, you'll manage the full review and decision-making process for home equity loan requests, including modifications. You'll apply sound judgment, strong analytical skills, and regulatory knowledge to assess risk and make credit decisions-always with a focus on delivering an excellent member experience.
Your day-to-day will include:
- Loan Review & Decisioning - Evaluating applicant financials, property valuations, title reports, and collateral to determine creditworthiness.
- Risk Assessment & Compliance - Identifying red flags, layered risks, and documentation gaps while ensuring compliance with TILA, RESPA, ECOA, HMDA, and other regulations.
- Loan Administration - Managing files from application through funding, including disclosures, deeds, conditions, and rescission periods.
- Member Guidance - Partnering with members to explain loan terms, repayment options, and conditions, and working with management to structure solutions for those facing financial difficulties.
- Collaboration - Coordinating with Consumer Lending, Compliance, Account Services, and Training teams to keep processes seamless and efficient.
- Continuous Improvement - Recommending process enhancements, supporting audits, and helping maintain up-to-date procedures as regulations evolve.
What We're Looking For
- 3-5 years of underwriting experience with home equity loans/lines, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Skilled in reviewing disclosures, titles, appraisals, loan applications, proof of income, mortgage statements, insurance forms, and other real estate documents.
- Strong knowledge of the real estate industry and related regulations, including the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA), and Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA).
Education/Certifications/Licenses
- High school diploma or equivalent required, college coursework preferred.
- Coursework or certification in real estate, or underwriting a plus (e.g., NMLS registration, credit analysis training).
Interpersonal Skills
- Excellent time management and customer service skills with strong attention to detail.
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with a friendly and professional demeanor.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) skills a plus.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment and build collaborative relationships across departments.
Computer Skills
- Proficient with Microsoft 365 products (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel).
- Familiarity with loan origination systems and core banking platforms preferred.
Other Skills - Reasoning Ability
- Exercises sound judgment, balances member outcomes and prudent credit risk in line with Credit Union policy.
- Identifies layered risk, sets clear conditions/mitigants, and documents rationale for audit/compliance.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; able to adapt to evolving regulations and lending practices.
What You'll Bring
- A detail-oriented and analytical mindset with strong problem-solving skills.
- The ability to balance sound risk management with practical, member-friendly solutions.
- Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate across teams and support colleagues.
- A proactive approach to learning, staying current on industry regulations and best practices.
Why Join Rize?
At Rize, we believe in empowering both our members and our team. You'll have the opportunity to make a real impact by supporting members in one of life's most important financial decisions, while working with a collaborative team that values growth, innovation, and service.
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