Structured Finance - RMBS, Associate Director - Chicago

Fitch Group • Chicago, IL

2d • $105,000 - $135,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

As one of the world’s top three credit ratings agencies, Fitch Ratings plays a critical role in global capital markets by providing supplementary credit analysis, ratings, research, and commentary to financial market participants. For over 100 years, Fitch Ratings has been creating value for global markets through its rigorous analysis and deep expertise, which have resulted in a variety of market leading tools, methodologies, indices, research, and analytical products. Fitch Ratings is part of Fitch Group, a global leader in financial information services with operations in more than 30 countries, which also includes Fitch Solutions. With dual headquarters in London and New York, Fitch Group is owned by Hearst. At Fitch Ratings, credit analysts play a pivotal role in moving markets, as quality credit analysis is the lifeblood of our organization. With a legacy of over a century, our unique approach to credit ratings offers unmatched opportunities for professional growth. Embracing a “challenger mindset,” you'll join a team dedicated to innovating service to our clients. Our people-driven analysis thrives on collaboration across all levels and locations, surpassing traditional financial modeling. Lastly, as part of our global community, you'll find inspiration, challenge, and support, with ample opportunities for visibility and influence in the global financial marketplace. Fitch Ratings is seeking an Associate Director to join the Residential Mortgage-Backed Securities Group (RMBS) in our Chicago office. The U.S. RMBS group is seeking an Associate Director to help lead transaction coverage and contribute to criteria, research, and market engagement. In this role, you will lead end‑to‑end analysis and presentation of complex RMBS transactions; independently assess credit, cash flow, legal, and structural risks; chair or present at rating committees; mentor junior analysts; engage with issuers, arrangers, and investors; and contribute to thought leadership and criteria enhancements.

Requirements

• You have 5–8 years of relevant experience in RMBS/ABS, mortgage credit, structured finance, or closely related capital markets roles
• You hold at least a bachelor’s degree; advanced degree and/or CFA/FRM is a plus
• You possess strong analytical and quantitative skills, including proficiency with cash flow modeling and large datasets
• You have excellent written and verbal communication skills and are comfortable engaging senior external stakeholders
• You thrive in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment and can manage multiple transactions and deadlines

Nice To Haves

• Direct lead experience on RMBS new‑issue and surveillance mandates, including presenting or chairing rating committees
• Deep knowledge of U.S. mortgage products, origination/servicing practices, due diligence, and performance drivers
• Hands‑on experience with RMBS cash flow engines, loan‑level analytics, and scenario/sensitivity frameworks
• Demonstrated contributions to criteria, methodology consultations, or thought‑leadership publications
• Established relationships with RMBS issuers, arrangers, servicers, and investors
• Experience mentoring and reviewing the work of junior analysts; strong quality control and documentation discipline

Responsibilities

• Lead primary and surveillance analysis of RMBS transactions, including collateral, structural, legal, and counterparty assessments
• Own cash flow modeling, scenario design, and sensitivity analysis; oversee model deployment and results interpretation
• Present recommendations at rating committees; chair committees as needed and document decisions to a high standard
• Drive criteria application and contribute to criteria development and methodological enhancements
• Produce high‑quality research, market commentary, and issuer/investor communications
• Manage and deepen assigned issuer and transaction relationships; represent Fitch in external meetings and conferences
• Coach and review the work of junior and senior analysts to ensure analytical rigor and consistency
• Monitor market developments, performance trends, and regulatory changes; translate insights into analytical viewpoints

Benefits

• Hybrid Work Environment: 3 days a week in office required based on your line of business and location
• A Culture of Learning & Mobility: Dedicated trainings, leadership development and mentorship programs designed to ensure that your time at Fitch will be a continuous learning opportunity
• Investing in Your Future: Retirement planning and tuition reimbursement programs that empower you to achieve your short and long-term goals
• Promoting Health & Wellbeing: Comprehensive healthcare offerings that enable physical, mental, financial, social, and occupational wellbeing
• Supportive Parenting Policies: Family-friendly policies, including a generous global parental leave plan, designed to help you balance career and family life effectively
• Inclusive Work Environment: A collaborative workplace where all voices are valued, with Employee Resource Groups that unite and empower our colleagues around the globe
• Dedication to Giving Back: Paid volunteer days, matched funding for donations and ample opportunities to volunteer in your community

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees