Senior Mortgage Underwriter
WFA Digital Insight
The remote job market is witnessing a surge in demand for skilled mortgage underwriters, with a growth rate of 21% in 2025. As a Senior Mortgage Underwriter at SouthState Bank, you'll be at the forefront of this trend, utilizing your expertise in Excel to drive business growth. With the company's strong commitment to community roots and forward-thinking solutions, this role stands out in the industry. Before applying, candidates should be aware of the importance of attention to detail, interpersonal relationships, and collaboration in this role. The mortgage industry is increasingly relying on technology and data-driven insights, making this an exciting time to join the field.
Job Description
About the Role
The Senior Mortgage Underwriter role at SouthState Bank is a critical position that involves underwriting residential mortgage loans to ensure they meet the guidelines of applicable insuring and guaranteeing agencies, investors, and the bank's credit policies. As a senior underwriter, you will be responsible for underwriting complex loans, reviewing documentation, and detecting potential fraud. You will work closely with a team of underwriters, mortgage loan officers, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless loan processing.The role requires a deep understanding of mortgage underwriting principles, guidelines, and regulations. You will utilize Automated Underwriting Systems and Excel to analyze loan data and make informed decisions. Your expertise will be essential in ensuring compliance with SouthState Bank's Corporate Code of Conduct and Ethics, as well as other operating procedures.
As a senior underwriter, you may also supervise a team of underwriters, providing guidance and support to help them develop their skills and expertise. You will be an integral part of the mortgage team, working together to drive business growth and deliver exceptional customer service.
What You Will Do
- Underwrite residential first mortgage loans within assigned lending authority according to applicable guidelines
- Examine documentation provided by borrowers and third-party verification sources for validity and compliance
- Review property appraisals to ensure collateral acceptability in accordance with corporate, agency, and investor standards
- Review fraud reports and condition loans appropriately for resolution of issues
- Issue loan approvals, reviews, and clear underwriting conditions
- Issue loan denials and forward for second review or respond to questions from Mortgage Loan Officers and others
- Perform second reviews of denied loans
- Update Loan Origination System and Automated Underwriting Systems
- Serve as an expert resource to other underwriters, sales partners, and others outside the mortgage division for consultation on complex income and loan scenarios
- Accept and perform other duties as deemed essential
What We Are Looking For
- 5+ years of experience in mortgage underwriting, with a focus on residential loans
- Strong knowledge of mortgage underwriting principles, guidelines, and regulations
- Proficiency in Excel and Automated Underwriting Systems
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Experience supervising a team of underwriters (preferred)
- Bachelor's degree in a related field (required)
Nice to Have
- Experience with mortgage loan origination systems and software
- Knowledge of secondary market investors and their guidelines
- Certification in mortgage underwriting (e.g., Certified Mortgage Underwriter)
- Experience working in a remote or distributed team environment
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunity to work with a reputable and growing financial institution
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Professional development and growth opportunities
- Flexible working hours and remote work options
- Access to cutting-edge technology and tools
- Comprehensive health and wellness program
- Generous PTO and holiday schedule
How to Stand Out
- Utilize specific examples to demonstrate your underwriting experience and skills in your resume and cover letter.
- Be prepared to discuss your approach to risk assessment and mitigation in the underwriting process during the interview.
- Showcase your knowledge of mortgage industry trends and regulatory updates to stand out as a candidate.
- Highlight your experience with Automated Underwriting Systems and Excel in your application materials.
- Consider obtaining a certification in mortgage underwriting to enhance your credentials and demonstrate expertise.
- Research SouthState Bank's values and mission to understand the company culture and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with these principles.
- Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the team, the role, and the company's approach to mortgage underwriting and risk management.
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