Mortgage Closer/UW Officer

We are seeking an experienced Mortgage Underwriter / Closing Specialist who will perform credit and collateral risk assessment, render underwriting decisions, and manage the loan closing process through funding. This hybrid role requires strong underwriting judgment, attention to regulatory/compliance detail, and hands‑on closing coordination to ensure timely, accurate loan closings and delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Underwrite conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and portfolio mortgage loans per investor, agency, and internal guidelines.
• Review loan files for creditworthiness, income, assets, employment, title, appraisal, and property eligibility; identify and document risk and outstanding conditions.
• Obtain, evaluate, and resolve underwriting conditions; prepare clear written findings and approval/denial decisions (including AUS findings when applicable).
• Issue clear underwriting conditions and communicate required items to loan processors, originators, and closers.
• Prepare and review closing documents (CD/HUD-1, final loan disclosures, promissory notes, security instruments) for accuracy and compliance.
• Coordinate with title companies, escrow, loan officers, attorneys, and third-party vendors to schedule and execute closings.
• Verify all closing conditions, ensure proper documentation (title insurance, endorsements, payoff statements, releases), and confirm final figures match approved disclosures.
• Authorize funding and ensure funds transfer and post‑closing deliveries are completed per investor guidelines and within timelines.
• Maintain detailed file documentation to support underwriting decisions and closing actions; prepare files for post‑closing quality control and investor delivery.
• Monitor regulatory changes (TRID, RESPA, ECOA, state regulations) and implement compliant processes; ensure audit readiness.
• Meet targeted turntimes for underwriting decisions and closings; escalate exceptions and loan delivery issues proactively.
• Provide training and support to loan officers, processors, and junior team members on underwriting and closing requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 3 years combined experience in residential mortgage underwriting and closing/escrow operations.
• Strong working knowledge of Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, USDA guidelines and investor overlays.
• Proficient with AUS systems (DU/LP), loan origination systems (LOS), closing platforms, and common secondary market delivery processes.
• Excellent analytical skills with ability to interpret credit reports, tax returns, asset documentation, and appraisals.
• Strong written and verbal communication; ability to produce clear underwriting findings and closing instructions.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organization, and time management in a high‑volume environment.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate across departments.

Preferred:

• Certified Mortgage Underwriter (CMU), or other industry certifications.
• Experience with conventional, government, and jumbo products.
• Prior experience authorizing funding and managing investor delivery.

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent

Key Competencies & Skills:

• Risk assessment and decision-making
• Regulatory and investor compliance
• Document preparation and audit readiness
• Customer service and vendor management
• Technology literacy (LOS, AUS, e-closing tools)
• Multi-tasking and deadline orientation

Performance Metrics:

• Underwriting decision turntime (e.g., same-day/24–48 hours where applicable)
• Closing/funding timeliness and accuracy
• Percentage of post-closing defects or buybacks
• Investor delivery compliance rates

Working Conditions:

• Office environment with periods of remote work possible; occasional evening or weekend work may be required to meet closing schedules.