Senior Mortgage Underwriter

Saved job description

Introduction

Since 1973, East West Bank has served as a pathway to success. With multiple locations across the U.S. and China, we are the premier financial bridge between the East and West. Our teams of experienced, multi-cultural professionals help guide businesses and community members on both sides of the Pacific looking to explore new markets and create new opportunities, and our sustained growth and expertise in industries like real estate, entertainment and media, private equity and venture capital, and high-tech help build sustainable businesses and expand our associates’ potential for career advancement. Headquartered in California, East West Bank (Nasdaq: EWBC) is a top performing commercial bank with an exclusive focus on the U.S. and China markets. With a strong foundation, and enterprising spirit and a commitment to absolute integrity, East West Bank gives people the confidence to reach further.

Overview

The Sr. Underwriter is responsible for evaluating, underwriting, and approving agency and portfolio mortgage loan applications in accordance with company policies, investor guidelines, and regulatory requirements. This role requires the application of advanced credit analysis, sound risk assessment, and independent decision-making to determine loan eligibility and structure.

Responsibilities

Underwrite a high volume of primarily agency loans (including Fannie Mae), with demonstrated capability to evaluate and approve portfolio loans using sound credit judgment and risk assessment.

Apply advanced full-documentation underwriting expertise, including specialized programs such as Bridge to Homeownership, ensuring adherence to agency and investor requirements.

Perform comprehensive reviews of loan files to validate accuracy, completeness, and compliance with company policies, federal regulations, agency guidelines, and applicable state and local requirements.

Conduct in-depth analysis of borrower creditworthiness, including loan-to-value (LTV), debt-to-income (DTI) or debt-to-asset (DTA) ratios, credit profiles, income and asset verification, and source of funds, while proactively identifying potential fraud or misrepresentation risks.

Evaluate residential appraisals to confirm collateral adequacy and ensure alignment with secondary market standards, investor overlays, and internal quality expectations.

Collaborate cross-functionally with Loan Officers, Processors, and Operations teams to resolve file deficiencies, streamline documentation collection, and ensure efficient loan progression.

Exercise independent judgment in determining when additional documentation or clarification is necessary to support sound underwriting decisions; issue clear, concise, and actionable conditions.

Provide informed guidance on loan structuring and program options, supporting optimal borrower outcomes while mitigating risk exposure.

Maintain current knowledge of regulatory changes, underwriting guidelines, and market trends to ensure compliant and consistent decision-making.

Ensure data integrity by validating system input accuracy and reconciling loan information against Automated Underwriting System (AUS) findings.

Serve as a subject matter expert and resource for junior underwriters and team members, providing guidance, resolving escalations, and promoting underwriting consistency and best practices.

Contribute to operational excellence through participation in process improvement initiatives, quality control efforts, and adherence to service level expectations.

Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

At least 5+ years of extensive experience underwriting increasingly complex mortgage transactions.

High school diploma or equivalent required; college courses/technical training related to Business, Finance/Accounting, Legal, or related field is preferred.

Prior experience using internal data entry systems, loan origination systems, Microsoft Office, and PDF/Document Retention programs.  Experience working within Encompass preferred.

Expert knowledge of end-to-end mortgage lending processes, including underwriting, processing, and funding.

Advanced expertise in evaluating borrower documentation (e.g., tax returns, financial statements, income and asset verification) to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Deep understanding of underwriting standards and regulatory requirements, including federal, state, agency, and internal controls governing residential mortgage lending.

Strong critical thinking and analytical skills, with the ability to assess complex data, draw sound conclusions, and evaluate downstream risk impacts.

Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment with a high sense of urgency and accountability.

Solid numerical aptitude to support financial and credit analysis.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively.

Highly detail-oriented, organized, and disciplined in maintaining accuracy and quality.

East West Bank is an equal opportunity employer

Applicants must have legal authorization to work in the United States. We do not offer visa sponsorship at this time.  

Compensation

The base pay range for this position is USD $20.00/Hr. - USD $46.00/Hr. Exact offers will be determined based on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and location.