Commercial Real Estate Underwriter

First Bank • Newport Beach, CA

11h • $96,000 - $125,000

About The Position

The Commercial Real Estate Underwriter serves as a critical control within the Bank’s credit risk management framework and is responsible for the independent risk assessment of commercial real estate loan requests. This role focuses on CRE lending and does not include C&I underwriting. The Underwriter provides objective evaluation of borrower, guarantor, collateral, and property-level repayment capacity; prepares comprehensive credit memoranda; identifies risk factors and exceptions to credit policy; and provides well-supported recommendations on credit decisions. Candidates with more advanced CRE underwriting experience may be considered at the Senior Commercial Real Estate Underwriter level. At the senior level, the role would be expected to work with greater independence, underwrite more complex CRE transactions, provide stronger credit structuring recommendations, and serve as a resource to less experienced credit staff.

Requirements

• Demonstrated knowledge of commercial loan structures, underwriting principles, credit policy and procedures, accounting principles, and regulatory expectations
• Ability to apply sound underwriting judgment using financial analysis, credit policy interpretation, and product knowledge, including SBA lending concepts, to appropriately identify and mitigate risk
• Strong analytical, reasoning, and problem-solving skills with the ability to assess complex credit scenarios, identify risks, and recommend appropriate mitigants
• Proven ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with internal partners to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Highly developed written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly document credit decisions and communicate recommendations to stakeholders
• Demonstrates strong organizational, prioritization, and time management skills, with consistent attention to detail and accountability for results
• Exhibits sound judgment, professionalism, and discretion; demonstrates initiative, resourcefulness, and self-motivation; and maintains a team-oriented approach while managing multiple competing priorities

Nice To Haves

• MBA preferred

Responsibilities

• Prepare objective underwriting analysis for commercial loan requests including new loans, renewals, extensions, and modifications
• Exercise independent judgment to assess the creditworthiness of loan requests, including analyses of borrowers, guarantors, and collateral
• Identify transaction risks and propose mitigants to ensure alignment with the Bank's risk appetite
• Actively participate in the deal team, collaborating with Relationship Managers, Portfolio Managers, Regional Credit Officers, and other credit partners
• Prepare clear, complete, and decision-ready credit memoranda that support approval, renewal, modification, or decline recommendations
• Participate in training to increase proficiency as part of professional development
• Perform other duties as assigned

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level