Junior Underwriter

Element, Inc.; Linthicum (MD); Remote; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking a Junior Mortgage Underwriter to support the underwriting team in evaluating residential mortgage loans. This entry-level position involves learning underwriting practices, preparing files, and making limited decisions under supervision. Candidates with strong analytical skills and a college background in finance or business are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• 1 year of mortgage operations experience preferred.
• Basic understanding of Conventional and Government loan programs.
• Familiarity with AUS systems (e.g., DU, LP) a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the review and preparation of FHA, VA, and Conventional loan files.
• Run automated underwriting systems and monitor results.
• Log and track case numbers, appraisals, and mortgage insurance certificates.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Organizational skills

Analytical thinking

Clear communication

Time management

Education

College degree in finance, business, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Loan origination systems

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Remote East Coast - Linthicum, MD

Position Type: Full Time

Salary Range: $28.85 - $33.65 Hourly

Description

Position Summary:

The Junior Mortgage Underwriter supports the underwriting team by assisting in the evaluation of residential mortgage loans for compliance with company, investor (FNMA, FHLMC, FHA, VA), and regulatory guidelines. This entry-level role focuses on learning underwriting practices, preparing files for review, and performing limited decision-making within assigned authority under the supervision of a senior underwriter.

Qualifications:

• College degree finance, business, or related field preferred. Commensurate work experience considerable.
• 1 year of mortgage operations or processing experience preferred.
• Basic understanding of Conventional and Government loan programs.
• Familiarity with AUS systems (e.g., DU, LP) a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and loan origination systems.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Analytical thinker with an aptitude for numbers and guidelines.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to learn and take direction from senior underwriters.

Essential Job Functions include, but are not limited to:

• Assist in the review and preparation of FHA, VA, and Conventional loan files for underwriting.
• Run automated underwriting systems (e.g., DU, LP) and monitor results.
• Log and track case numbers, appraisals, and mortgage insurance certificates.
• Upload and monitor Non-Delegated Jumbo loan submissions.
• Review title commitments and property insurance for completeness.
• Pre-approve, suspend, or pre-decline loans within assigned authority and escalate as needed.
• Track pipeline activity to ensure timely file movement and follow-up.
• Enter and maintain accurate loan data in underwriting systems.
• Respond to inquiries from originators and processors regarding underwriting documentation.
• Monitor shared mailboxes (e.g., pre-qual mailbox) and escalate complex issues.
• Assist in resolving delivery issues and correcting data discrepancies.
• Provide technical support to team members by identifying basic file issues.
• Support onboarding and peer learning for new team members as assigned.
• Stay updated on changes in underwriting guidelines and internal policies.
• Deliver professional, responsive service to internal business partners.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with a job.

Working Conditions Information:

The physical demands described here must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is often required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or operate computers, objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. Specific vision abilities this job requires include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

This job description is not a contract of employment. The employer, in its sole discretion, may modify or adjust the position to meet the organization’s changing needs.

NFM Lending, Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer. We value diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. NFM believes success is created by a diverse workforce of individuals with different ideas, strengths, interests, and cultural backgrounds.

Additional Information:

The range provided reflects the expected compensation for this role and is considered a general guideline. Actual compensation will be decided based on factors such as geographic location, skills, education, experience assessed during the interview process, and internal pay equity. Compensation may also include incentives such as per-file bonuses and discretionary bonuses as applicable to the role.

Qualifying employees are eligible to participate in our Total Rewards program. Additional information can be found by clicking on the following link: Benefits and Total Rewards

Qualifications