Mortgage Loan Underwriter - Middletown, NY

We are hiring an experienced mortgage professional with strong knowledge of conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans. The candidate will evaluate credit, income, assets, and loan documentation to make sound lending decisions, balancing risk, compliance, and customer service while helping loans move efficiently from application to closing.

This position is responsible for underwriting first‑mortgage loan applications, reviewing loan information, and analyzing applicant credit history to approve or deny loans. The role includes lending authority as determined by management, support duties related to the lending function, underwriting second mortgages and HELOCs as assigned, coaching mortgage processors, and generating reporting for senior management.

• Maintain thorough understanding of FNMA conventional mortgage underwriting guidelines and applicable private mortgage insurance guidelines.
• Set pricing for mortgages using FNMA pricing models and HFCU procedures.
• Use FNMA Desktop Underwriter to receive approval/decline decisions on mortgages.
• Commit/sell loans to FNMA at desired profitability in accordance with policies.
• Refer mortgage loans to partners when necessary.
• Assist Financial Service Representatives with the loan application process to ensure completeness of information.
• Review and approve/deny appraisal work and real‑estate title and insurance work in accordance with HFCU policy.
• Calculate debt‑to‑income ratios and determine secured/unsecured debt exposure.
• Review real‑estate loan reworks and determine collateral needs and payment plans.
• Maintain knowledge of RESPA, HMDA, Truth in Lending, and all lending compliance requirements.
• Explain reasons for declines and provide counter‑offers whenever possible.
• Process adverse action notices for declined loans.
• Verify accuracy of loan amounts and repayment terms on approved applications.
• Perform responsibilities in accordance with federal and state regulations, credit union policies, and procedures.
• Assist in training new employees.
• Recommend changes to improve workflow, efficiencies, and quality.
• Cross‑sell credit union products and services as appropriate.
• Process, analyze, and maintain lending department reports as assigned.
• Meet core competency requirements and achieve objectives for accuracy, volume, profitability, and service levels.
• Collaborate effectively with branch personnel, processors, and other underwriters to ensure complete loan applications and proper closing.
• Work with all lending areas—including origination, consumer lending, servicing, and collections—to ensure an efficient, effective team‑based division.
• Participate in departmental and strategic projects as directed.
• Serve as a resource on real‑estate products and services; respond to internal and external loan‑related member questions.
• Recommend operational procedures to increase department effectiveness.
• Perform other related or unrelated duties as requested and required.

• Education:
  
  Four‑year bachelor’s degree in business and two or more years of experience in mortgage/home equity underwriting.
• Knowledge:
  Accounting principles, underwriting and compliance guidelines, Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) requirements, and related compliance.
• Experience:
  
  Proficiency with PC‑based software, including Microsoft Office.
• Skills and Abilities:
  
  Professional appearance, positive attitude, strong communication skills, and ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Salary: $28.98–$36.23 per hour, depending on experience.
• Paid Time Off & Paid Federal Holidays
• Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) / Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
• Supplement Benefits:
  Critical Illness Care, Identity Theft Protection, Pet Insurance, Legal Services
• Benefits Plus+ perks program (travel, entertainment, gift cards, etc.)
• Benefits concierge service
• 401(k) with 5% employer match
• Educational assistance
• Paid time to volunteer
• Employer logo‑wear for employees

Employment at our Credit Union is based upon merit, ability, and qualifications. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other legally protected status.