Middle Market Underwriter, Sr

Columbia Bank (New Jersey); Walnut Creek (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare coverage

401(k) retirement plan with match

Tuition assistance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Paid vacation and holidays

Job summary

Columbia Bank is seeking a Senior Commercial Underwriter for the Walnut Creek, CA market. You will underwrite middle market requests including working capital lines, asset-based facilities, CRE, and equipment financing, collaborating with CSMs and Relationship Managers to present concise credit analyses and risk mitigations.

The role requires 7–10 years of underwriting/credit experience, advanced analytical and communication skills, and strong knowledge of credit policies.

Qualifications

• 7–10 years of commercial underwriting/credit analysis experience or relevant lending experience.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills are required.
• Knowledge of accounting, financial statement spreading, and cash flow analysis is essential.
• Ability to train and present to small and large audiences is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Underwrite new and renewal Middle Market credits (working capital, asset-based, CRE and equipment).
• Present findings with business rationale and risk mitigations to obtain credit approval.
• Identify exceptions to bank policies and ensure proper loan coding and risk rating.
• Monitor borrower financial performance and maintain compliance with loan documents and covenants.

Skills

Analytical skills

Credit analysis

Cash flow analysis

Time management

Communication skills

Presentation skills

Training ability

Credit policy knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in finance

Job description

About the Role

Underwrites new and renewal Middle Market credit requests comprised of working capital lines of credit, asset-based lines of credit, commercial real estate loans (Owner Occupied and Investor) and equipment financing; most often from moderate-to-complex enterprises with revenues greater than $5 million. Collaborates with Client Solutions Managers ("CSMs") and Relationship Managers to accurately present findings, including business rationale and risk mitigations, in order to obtain credit approval and meet customer needs. Analyze business, industry, financial data and other supporting credit information concerning an applicant’s credit request; identifies key business and financial risks that may impact the repayment prospects by the borrower; derives conclusions supporting the credit recommendation based on documented facts and/or sound judgement. Prepare timely, concise and accurate credit recommendations, with limited supervision or revision. Includes: (1) quantitative components within the underwriting narrative documenting the credit analysis; (2) accurate use of risk rating scoring models (aka Dual Risk Rating), both quantitative and qualitative rating elements, to ensure customers and loans are properly risk-rated; (3) accurate identification and mitigation of all exceptions to Bank tracked policies exceptions (TPE), tracked guidelines exceptions (TGE), procedures and compliance regulations; and (4) accurate loan coding consistent with nature of the borrowing relationship and terms of the credit(s). Monitor borrower financial performance in line with commercial and/or real estate loan documents; spreads financial statement and/or ensures required financial statements are spread in accordance with Bank Guidelines and resulting covenant calculations are accurate, complete and adhere to approval conditions and loan documentation. Collaborates with CSM to ensure borrower notifications are sent and approvals are obtained to resolve any violations in a timely manner. Partners with CSMs and Relationship Managers to offer insights into customer financial needs, including opportunities identified using Line of Business-approved relationship expansion tools. May also offer opinions related to a loan structure’s effectiveness to mitigate risks, appropriate to prevailing competitive market environment and Bank risk tolerances. Partners with CSMs and Relationship Managers in customer and prospect calls as appropriate. May shadow manage a portfolio with CSM as part of training and development, with Underwriting Manager and Market Director mutual approval. May oversee the work of other commercial underwriters or credit analysts, including the timely review of credit reports prepared by other underwriters to ensure a high level of report quality prior to submission for approval; findings to be captured via a standardized Quality Control (QC) Checklist and used to provide guidance and training to underwriters. Demonstrates compliance with all bank regulations for assigned job function and applies to designated job responsibilities – knowledge may be gained through coursework and on-the-job training. Keeps up to date on regulation changes. Follows all Bank policies and procedures, compliance regulations, and completes all required annual or job-specific training. Maintain a working knowledge of Bank's written policies and procedures regarding Bank Secrecy Act, Regulation CC, Regulation E, Bank Security and other regulations as applicable to this job description. May be asked to coach, mentor, or train others and teach coursework as subject matter expert. Actively learns, demonstrates, and fosters the Columbia corporate culture in all actions and words. Takes personal initiative and is a positive example for others to emulate. Embraces our vision to become “Business Bank of Choice” May perform other duties as assigned.

About You

Education Experience 7-10 years — of commercial underwriting/credit analysis experience or relevant lending experience. (Required) Skills Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills. Advanced credit and credit quality skills including accounting, financial statement spreading, and cash flow analysis experience; ability to train and present to small and large audiences or has the interest in learning to train and present. Demonstrated time management skills, reflecting the ability to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously while delivering work product on time. Ability to work effectively with individuals and groups across the company to manage internal and external customer relationships. Possess excellent written, verbal, interpersonal and presentation skills, including ability to train and present to small and large audiences or has the interest in learning to train and present. Advanced knowledge of credit policies, procedures, practices and documentation.

Travel Requirements

Occasional

Pay Range

The pay range for this role is $100,000 - $165,000. The pay rate for the selected candidate is dependent upon a variety of non-discriminatory factors including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, education, and geographic location. The role may be eligible for performance-based incentive compensation, and those details will be provided during the recruitment process.

Primary Location

Ability to work fully onsite at posted location(s). 1333 North California Blvd Suite 545 Walnut Creek CA 94596

Our Benefits

We are proud to offer a competitive total rewards package including base wages and comprehensive benefits. We offer eligible associates comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, and vision plans), a 401(k)-retirement savings plan with employer match for qualifying associate contributions, an employee assistance program, life insurance, disability insurance, tuition assistance, mental health resources, identity theft protection, legal support, auto and home insurance, pet insurance, access to an online discount marketplace, and paid vacation, sick days, volunteer days, and holidays. Benefit eligibility begins the first day of the month following the date of hire for associates who are regularly scheduled to work at least thirty hours weekly.

Our Commitment to Diversity

Columbia Bank is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to employing, engaging, and developing a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, protected veteran status, disability, or any other applicable protected status or characteristics. If you require an accommodation to complete the application or interview(s), please let us know by email: [e-mail].

To Staffing and Recruiting Agencies

Our posted job opportunities are only intended for individuals seeking employment at Columbia Bank. Columbia Bank does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies and Columbia Bank will not be responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resume submissions. Staffing and recruiting agencies are not authorized to submit profiles, applications, or resumes to this site or to any Columbia Bank employee and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited unless requested directly by a member of the Talent Acquisition team.

About Columbia Bank

At Columbia Bank, we’re redefining what it means to bank and to build a career. As the West’s premier banking experience, we combine the strength and scale of a leading financial institution with the heart and mindset of a community bank. With more than 350 locations across eight states, we deliver relationship-based service backed by regional expertise and resources that help families and businesses thrive.

Culture and Values

Our culture is built on Do RIGHT, which means: Relationships: We create authentic connections with customers, colleagues, and communities. Impact: Every role here makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives and local economies. Growth: We invest in your success with career development, mentorship, and learning opportunities. Heart: We care deeply about doing what’s best for our customers and each other. Trust: Integrity and transparency guide everything we do.

Why work for Columbia Bank?

A strong, stable financial foundation with over $67 billion in assets and a diverse portfolio that supports flexibility and opportunity. A culture of belonging and purpose, where your ideas matter and your work has impact. Competitive benefits and flexibility designed to help you thrive personally and professionally. Community engagement that matters, from supporting local businesses to empowering youth through financial literacy initiatives. Ready to Do RIGHT for your career, your community, and your future? Explore opportunities and join Columbia Bank today.