Senior Underwriter

Position: Senior UnderwriterLocation: Lakewood, New Jersey (onsite)Merchant First operates in the alternative financing space and provides fast and flexible funding solutions that help small and medium-sized businesses access capital when they need it most. Through technology-driven underwriting and data analytics, we deliver same-day and next-day funding options with repayment structures designed around real-world cash flow.Our platform combines experienced operators with advanced analytics and AI tools to make faster and smarter credit decisions while delivering a seamless experience for our clients. As we continue to scale, we are building a high-performing organization to support data-driven decision making across the business in all departments.If you're looking to join a company that moves quickly, embraces innovation, and makes a real impact on the businesses we serve, Merchant First is the place to build your career.About the RoleWe are hiring a Senior Underwriter who will lead the review of merchant applications, analyze financial documents, and assess risk to determine eligibility for merchant cash advances. This role is ideal for an experienced underwriter with a strong track record in MCA or related lending who is ready to take on greater ownership, mentor junior team members, and help shape underwriting strategy.What You Will DoReview merchant applications, bank statements, credit reports, and supporting documents to assess risk and determine funding eligibilityConduct in-depth financial analysis, including cash-flow trends, average daily balances, NSFs, and revenue stabilityIdentify potential fraud indicators, make final risk determinations, and escalate complex or high exposure deals as neededCommunicate with ISOs, sales reps, and internal teams to gather missing documents or clarify deal detailsPrepare clear, concise underwriting notes and recommendations, and review deals submitted by junior underwritersStructure offers that align with company risk guidelines, exercising independent judgment on complex dealsMaintain accuracy and compliance with internal policies and industry standardsSupport same-day and next-day funding workflows by managing time-sensitive deal queuesSupport development of the Company's underwriting technology and infrastructure to create a scalable platform as the company growsDevelop and maintain underwriting pricing modelsIdentify opportunities to improve underwriting processes and reportingMentor and train junior underwriters, providing guidance on deal structuring and risk assessmentPlan and lead underwriting closing calls with team and merchantsWho You Are7+ years of underwriting or financial/business analyst experience, preferably in merchant cash advance (MCA), alternative lending, or a related fieldStrong understanding of bank statements, cash-flow patterns, and basic credit analysis to assess business healthAdvanced Microsoft Excel skills Ability to interpret financial documents quickly and accuratelyExcellent communication skills, both written and verbalHigh attention to detail and strong organizational skillsComfortable working in a fast-paced, high-volume environmentProficiency with underwriting or CRM platforms (Salesforce, MCA portals, etc.) is a plusIntellectual curiosity, analytical mindset and a desire to continuously improve processesStrong sense of urgency and ownershipComfortable asking questions and seeking clarityTeam-oriented with a willingness to mentor and support junior underwritersSelf-starter with strong initiative and accountabilityWhat We OfferCompetitive market compensation and performance incentivesComprehensive health, dental and vision insurance plansPaid vacation and holidaysOpportunities for professional growth and advancementCollaborative team who is energized by solving problems togetherAbility to work closely with senior leadership and see your ideas turn into reality