Commercial Underwriter

First Bank • Newport Beach, CA

7d

About The Position

The Commercial Banking Underwriter serves as a critical control within the
bank's credit risk management framework and is responsible for the independent
risk assessment of commercial loan requests. This role provides objective
evaluation of creditworthiness, preparing comprehensive credit memoranda that
identifies risk factors and exceptions to credit policy, and makes
recommendations on credit decisions.

Requirements

• Working knowledge of commercial loan structures, underwriting principles, and credit risk management concepts
• Understanding of bank credit policy, credit procedures, and regulatory expectations applicable to commercial lending
• Knowledge of financial statements, accounting principles, cash flow analysis, and collateral evaluation
• Familiarity with commercial banking products and, where applicable, SBA lending programs
• Strong analytical and reasoning skills with the ability to assess borrower, guarantor, and transaction risk
• Ability to identify credit risks, policy exceptions, and propose appropriate risk mitigants
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including preparation of clear, well‑supported credit memoranda
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with Relationship Managers, Portfolio Managers, and Credit Officers
• Strong organizational, prioritization, and time‑management skills in order to manage multiple deadlines
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain objectivity in underwriting decisions
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment
• Demonstrated initiative, accountability, and attention to detail
• Ability to adapt to evolving credit standards, regulatory expectations, and business needs
• Bachelor's Degree in business, accounting, finance, or a related field required

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, and Regional Credit Officers
• Provide well-supported recommendations to arrive at credit decisions
• 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
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees