Commercial Loan Underwriter

Commercial Loan Underwriter

The Commercial Loan Underwriter plays a critical role in the financial services industry by evaluating and analyzing commercial loan applications to determine creditworthiness and risk. This position requires a thorough assessment of financial statements, credit reports, and market conditions to make informed lending decisions that align with the institution's risk management policies. The underwriter collaborates closely with loan officers, clients, and other stakeholders to ensure that loan proposals meet regulatory requirements and internal guidelines. By accurately assessing risk and recommending appropriate loan terms, the underwriter helps protect the financial institution's assets while supporting business growth. Ultimately, this role ensures that commercial lending decisions are sound, compliant, and contribute to the institution's profitability and reputation.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in commercial loan underwriting or a similar credit analysis role.
• Strong understanding of financial statements, credit analysis, and commercial lending principles.
• Proficiency with loan underwriting software and financial modeling tools.
• Knowledge of relevant banking regulations and compliance requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Good organizational and time management skills with ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks according to deadlines
• Strong understanding of commercial real estate and C&I.
• Experience with specialized commercial loan products such as SBA loans, real estate loans, or construction loans and and/or agricultural lending, is a plus.
• Ability to write reports, business correspondence and procedure manual.
• Proficiency in financial statement and tax return analysis for various entity types (individuals, sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, corporations).
• Familiarity with NCUA regulations, Reg B (ECOA), BSA/AML, and other applicable lending compliance requirements.
• Excellent analytical, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple loan requests under deadline pressure while maintaining accuracy.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and loan origination/underwriting software
• Sound judgment and integrity in evaluating risk and making recommendations.
• Prior experience working in a bank or financial institution with a focus on commercial lending.

Responsibilities

• Review and analyze commercial loan applications, including financial statements, tax returns, credit reports, and business plans.
• Assess the creditworthiness of borrowers by evaluating their financial condition, repayment capacity, and collateral value.
• Prepare detailed loan underwriting reports that summarize findings, risk assessments, and recommendations for loan approval or denial.
• Collaborate with loan officers and relationship managers to clarify information and negotiate loan terms when necessary.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable banking regulations, internal policies, and lending standards throughout the underwriting process.
• Monitor and update loan files and documentation to maintain accuracy and completeness.
• Stay informed about market trends, economic conditions, and regulatory changes that may impact commercial lending decisions.

The required skills enable the underwriter to meticulously analyze financial data and assess borrower risk, ensuring that lending decisions are both prudent and compliant. Proficiency in financial modeling and underwriting software facilitates efficient evaluation and documentation of loan applications. Strong analytical skills are essential for interpreting complex financial statements and market conditions to make sound credit decisions. Preferred skills such as advanced risk assessment and industry knowledge enhance the ability to tailor loan recommendations to specific business sectors and economic environments. Effective communication and negotiation skills are used daily to collaborate with loan officers and clients, ensuring clarity and alignment throughout the underwriting process.