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If you’ve Googled “mortgage underwriter job description,” you’ve probably noticed a pattern: the posts all look the same. A list of bullet points. A few vague sentences about responsibilities. A dry, formal tone that could have been written by a robot.
The problem? Those posts might tick an HR compliance box, but they do very little to inspire the right people to apply—especially top-performing underwriters who have options.
A great mortgage underwriter job description should do more than outline duties—it should sell the opportunity. It should make the right candidate think, “Yes, this is a team I want to be part of.”
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to do that. We’ll start with a clear explanation of what the role really involves (in plain English), then give you two complete job post templates—one for experienced candidates and one for employers willing to train the right person. We’ll also break down why these posts work, share a bad example so you know what to avoid, and give you extra tips to make your post stand out in a crowded market.
If you want the deeper principles behind this, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ — it explains why generic posts fail and how to write ones that actually attract top talent.
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
What the Mortgage Underwriter Role Actually Is
A mortgage underwriter is the decision-maker in the home loan process. They review a borrower’s financial information—like income, credit history, assets, debts, and property details—to determine whether the loan should be approved, denied, or approved with conditions.
In plain English: a mortgage underwriter is the person who makes sure a loan is a smart, safe bet for the lender, while also ensuring it complies with regulations and lending guidelines.
It’s a role that requires more than just crunching numbers. A great underwriter also:
- Understands the bigger picture of each applicant’s financial situation.
- Balances risk management with customer service.
- Communicates clearly with loan officers, processors, and sometimes directly with borrowers to clarify requirements.
- Stays on top of constantly changing lending policies, mortgage regulations, and market conditions.
Because mortgage underwriters play such a critical role in whether a loan moves forward, qualities like attention to detail, integrity, sound judgment, and clear communication are just as important as technical skills.
Two Great Mortgage Underwriter Job Description Templates
✅ Version 1: Job Description For Experienced Mortgage Underwriter
📌 Job Title: Senior Mortgage Underwriter — Purchase-Focused, Fast-Growth Team
💼 Location: Hybrid (New York, NY)
💰 Salary: $78,000–$95,000/year + performance bonuses
⏰ Schedule: Mon–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM (flex available)
A quick word from your future manager
(Insert Loom/YouTube link — 60–90 seconds on team, expectations, and what success looks like.)
Who We Are — Riverton Home Finance (Fictional)
Riverton Home Finance is a mid-sized, purchase-first lender serving NY, NJ, and CT. Over the last decade, we’ve built a reputation for clean files, responsive communication, and on-time closings. Our underwriting team partners closely with sales and processing, leveraging modern tools (Encompass LOS, DU/LPA, QC automation) to move quality files fast while staying rock-solid on compliance.
What You’ll Do
- Underwrite conventional and government loans (FHA/VA/USDA) to agency, investor, and internal overlays.
- Issue approvals/denials/conditions with clear rationale and risk notes.
- Work closely with processors/LOs to clear conditions quickly and accurately.
- Perform income, asset, credit, collateral, and fraud review; escalate edge cases.
- Keep current with guideline updates and contribute to internal playbooks.
What We’re Looking For
- 3+ years’ residential mortgage underwriting experience.
- Strong fluency with Fannie/Freddie + FHA/VA; DE/ SAR a plus.
- Meticulous attention to detail; crisp written communication.
- Ability to manage volume without sacrificing quality or turn times.
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision + FSA/HSA options
- 401(k) with company match
- 15 PTO days + 10 paid holidays + 2 floating days
- Annual stipend for home office setup + monthly WFH allowance
- Certification support: FHA DE / VA SAR prep & renewals
- Paid learning budget (guideline updates, webinars, workshops)
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Impact: Your decisions directly drive on-time closings and borrower experience.
- Autonomy: Own files end-to-end with strong support from processing/ops.
- Trajectory: Clear path to Team Lead/QA/Policy roles for high performers.
- Culture: No ego, high standards, and fast feedback loops.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to keep hiring fair and fast. Apply via our WorkScreen link and complete a short, role-specific evaluation. We review every application and respond within 7 business days.
👉 [Insert your WorkScreen link for Riverton Senior Underwriter]
✅ Version 2: Job Description For Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Mortgage Underwriter
📌 Job Title: Junior Mortgage Underwriter — We’ll Train the Right Person
💼 Location: Remote (U.S.-based)
💰 Salary: $50,000–$58,000/year + progression plan
⏰ Schedule: Mon–Fri, core hours 10 AM–4 PM (flex around that)
A quick word from your future manager
(Insert Loom/YouTube link — 60–90 seconds on training roadmap, support, and first-90-day goals.)
Who We Are — Maple & Main Home Loans (Fictional)
Maple & Main is a remote-first lender focused on first-time homebuyers and community lending programs. We believe great underwriters are developed through coaching, not just credentials. You’ll learn from senior underwriters through a structured 12-week program, live shadowing, and weekly case reviews—so you can build judgment, not just checklists.
What You’ll Do
- Support senior underwriters: file prep, document verification, condition tracking.
- Learn income/asset/credit fundamentals and collateral basics step-by-step.
- Communicate with processors/LOs to complete files on time.
- Participate in training sprints and apply learning to real cases.
- Contribute to team playbooks as you level up.
What We’re Looking For
- Strong attention to detail, systems thinking, and follow-through.
- Comfort with numbers and docs (banking/finance/admin experience is a plus).
- Clear writing; confident, respectful communication.
- Curiosity and growth mindset—coachable and accountable.
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision + mental health support
- 401(k) with match after 90 days
- 15 PTO days + 8 company holidays + volunteer day
- Laptop + dual monitors + remote work stipend
- Paid training program with certification support (path toward DE/SAR)
- Quarterly learning budget and mentorship pairing
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Career Launchpad: A real underwriting career path, not just a back-office role.
- Hands-On Coaching: Shadow, practice, and get feedback on real scenarios.
- Remote Flexibility: Work from anywhere U.S., with supportive, responsive leads.
- Purpose: Help first-time buyers and community borrowers get to “clear to close.”
📥 How to Apply
We evaluate every candidate via WorkScreen.io to understand potential beyond resumes. Complete the short evaluation, and we’ll keep you updated at each step.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Breakdown of Why These Mortgage Underwriter Job Posts Work
1. Clear, Specific Job Titles
Both posts avoid vague titles like “Mortgage Underwriter” and instead add context that matters to candidates:
- “Senior Mortgage Underwriter — Purchase-Focused, Fast-Growth Team” immediately signals seniority, file type focus, and work environment.
- “Junior Mortgage Underwriter — We’ll Train the Right Person” makes the role approachable for career changers or entry-level talent.
Why it works: Candidates can instantly self-assess fit, reducing mismatched applications and improving quality.
2. Personal Touch With a Video Element
Including a short Loom/YouTube video link from the hiring manager before the “Who We Are” section adds personality and trust. Candidates see the actual leader they might work with, hear their expectations, and get a feel for team culture before applying.
Why it works: Humanizes the post and boosts connection, especially in remote or hybrid roles.
3. Specific “Who We Are” Sections
Instead of generic “We’re a growing company” filler, each About Us section references fictional but realistic company names, focus areas, markets served, and work style.
- Riverton Home Finance: highlights purchase focus, tech tools, and multi-state service area.
- Maple & Main Home Loans: emphasizes first-time buyer programs and community lending.
Why it works: Top candidates want to know exactly what kind of lender they’d be joining, not just that you exist.
4. Transparent Salary & Schedule
Both templates state a pay range, location, and schedule expectations up front.
Why it works: Builds trust, weeds out mismatched applicants, and shows respect for the candidate’s time.
5. Perks & Benefits Listed Separately
Breaking out Perks & Benefits from “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” makes it easier to skim and compare with competing offers.
Why it works: In a competitive talent market, perks and benefits are often deciding factors — making them visible matters.
6. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section
This section frames the role as an opportunity, not just a list of tasks. It speaks to:
- Impact (how their work drives business results)
- Autonomy (ownership over decisions)
- Growth (pathways to senior roles or specialization)
- Culture (collaborative, feedback-driven)
Why it works: Motivates the right kind of candidate — the one who cares about purpose and growth, not just a paycheck.
7. Respectful, Transparent Application Process
The “How to Apply” section tells candidates exactly what to expect — a WorkScreen.io evaluation, a review timeline, and confirmation that every application gets a response.
Why it works: Reduces candidate anxiety, positions the company as respectful, and filters for committed applicants.
Bad Mortgage Underwriter Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
📌 Job Title: Mortgage Underwriter
💼 Location: Not specified
💰 Salary: Not disclosed
⏰ Schedule: Full-time
Job Summary
We are seeking a mortgage underwriter to review and process mortgage applications. The candidate will be responsible for assessing loan files and ensuring compliance with lending regulations.
Responsibilities
- Review loan applications.
- Check credit reports.
- Ensure compliance with guidelines.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in finance or related field.
- 2–3 years’ underwriting experience.
- Knowledge of mortgage regulations.
How to Apply
Send your CV to careers@company.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Why This Job Post Fails
- Generic Job Title
Just says “Mortgage Underwriter” — no indication of experience level, focus area, or company type. This could apply to any lender in the country. - No Salary or Location
Leaving these out feels outdated and makes the post less attractive to serious applicants. - Cold, Impersonal Introduction
The “Job Summary” is lifeless and doesn’t explain the company, culture, or why the role matters. - Vague Responsibilities
The tasks listed could apply to dozens of unrelated jobs in finance. No insight into daily work or tools used. - No Perks, Benefits, or Career Path
The post gives zero incentive for someone to choose this role over another. - Dismissive Application Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is cold and discouraging — the exact opposite of the respectful process top candidates expect.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Mortgage Underwriter Job Post Stand Out
Even with a well-structured job post, there are small but powerful touches that can make your listing rise above dozens of others in the market. Here’s how to go from “good” to “must-apply.”
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Show candidates you take their data seriously. You can add this at the end of your application instructions:
IMPORTANT NOTICE: We take the security and privacy of all job applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.
Why it works: Builds trust from the very start, especially in a time when job scams are common.
2. Mention Leave & Flex Time
Mortgage underwriting can be deadline-driven. Candidates value knowing they’ll have time to recharge.
Example:
Enjoy 15 days PTO, 10 paid holidays, and 2 floating days per year, so you can take the breaks you need to perform at your best.
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
If you offer certifications, mentorship, or leadership development, make it visible.
Example:
We invest in your growth — whether that’s helping you earn your FHA DE designation, preparing for VA SAR approval, or expanding your skills into policy and quality control.
4. Include a Video from the Hiring Manager or Team
We already added this in the good examples, but if you’re adapting this format for your own post, don’t skip it. A short Loom/YouTube video covering “what a great first 90 days looks like” can double engagement.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Make the “Why Work With Us” Section Feel Exclusive
Replace generic statements like “we value teamwork” with something unique to your company culture:
Example:
We run on feedback loops, not red tape. Our underwriting team has direct input on process changes, so your ideas won’t just be heard — they’ll be implemented.
Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone for Your Mortgage Underwriter Job Post
It’s tempting to ask an AI tool to “write me a mortgage underwriter job description” and copy whatever it gives you. The problem? You’ll almost always get something generic, lifeless, and disconnected from your company’s real needs.
When you use AI without giving it context, you risk:
- Attracting the wrong candidates — generic posts draw in people who are applying to anything remotely related, not the high-caliber underwriters you want.
- Hurting your employer brand — your job post is often a candidate’s first impression of your company. A bland, AI-generated post makes you look like you don’t care enough to invest in your hiring message.
- Missing role-specific nuance — an underwriter for a purchase-focused lender is very different from one working in refinance-heavy pipelines. Generic AI won’t reflect those differences unless you tell it to.
The Right Way to Use AI for a Job Post
AI can still be a fantastic writing partner — but only if you give it the raw ingredients first. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Provide Role Context
- Type of loans you underwrite (conventional, FHA, VA, USDA)
- Volume expectations and turnaround times
- Experience level (junior, senior, DE/SAR required, etc.)
- Type of loans you underwrite (conventional, FHA, VA, USDA)
- Describe Your Company Culture & Values
- Your approach to collaboration, communication, and decision-making
- How underwriters fit into the bigger picture
- Your approach to collaboration, communication, and decision-making
- List Benefits & Perks
- Salary range, bonuses, insurance, PTO, certifications
- Salary range, bonuses, insurance, PTO, certifications
- Include the Hiring Process
- Whether you use WorkScreen.io, timelines, number of interview rounds
- Whether you use WorkScreen.io, timelines, number of interview rounds
Example Prompt to AI:
“Help me write a job post for our company, Riverton Home Finance. We’re hiring a Senior Mortgage Underwriter to underwrite FHA, VA, and conventional loans in a purchase-focused pipeline. Our culture is collaborative and feedback-driven. We want to attract detail-oriented, decisive candidates with at least 3 years of experience. We offer $78k–$95k/year, bonuses, hybrid work, health insurance, PTO, and certification support. Our hiring process uses WorkScreen.io, and here’s the link. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste notes].”
By giving AI your specifics, you’re letting it help you polish, not replace, your writing — ensuring the final post sounds human, accurate, and uniquely yours.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
Job Title: Senior Mortgage Underwriter — [Add Key Focus/Specialization] at [Company Name] 💼 Location: [Remote/Hybrid/Onsite] (HQ: [City, State]) 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time] 💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
🎥 A quick word from your future manager
[Insert Loom/YouTube link — 60–90 seconds on team, expectations, and what success looks like.]
Who We Are — [Company Name]
[2–3 sentences describing your lending focus (e.g., purchase-heavy, first-time buyer programs), size, markets served, tools (e.g., Encompass, DU/LPA), and what sets you apart. Keep it specific and human.]
What You’ll Do
- Underwrite [Conventional/FHA/VA/USDA/Jumbo] loans to agency, investor, and internal overlays.
- Evaluate income, assets, credit, collateral, and red flags; document clear approval/condition/denial rationales.
- Partner with processors/LOs to clear conditions quickly and accurately.
- Maintain current knowledge of guideline and overlay changes; contribute to playbooks.
What We’re Looking For
- [X]+ years’ residential mortgage underwriting experience.
- Strong fluency with Fannie/Freddie + [FHA/VA/USDA] guidelines; [DE/SAR preferred/required].
- Meticulous attention to detail; crisp written communication.
- Ability to manage volume without sacrificing quality or turn times.
Perks & Benefits
- [Medical, dental, vision]
- [401(k) with company match]
- [PTO: XX days + XX holidays + XX floating days]
- [Remote/WFH stipend + equipment]
- [Certification support: FHA DE/VA SAR prep & renewals]
- [Annual learning budget / mentorship]
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Impact: Your decisions directly drive on-time closings and borrower experience.
- Autonomy: Own files end-to-end with strong ops support and fast feedback loops.
- Growth: Clear paths to Team Lead/QA/Policy or specialization roles.
- Culture: Low-ego, high-standards, collaborative environment.
📥 How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen.io: [Insert WorkScreen link] and complete our short, role-specific evaluation. We review every application and keep you updated at each step.
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
Job Title: [Senior/Junior] Mortgage Underwriter — [Focus/Team] at [Company Name] 💼 Location: [Remote/Hybrid/Onsite] (HQ: [City, State]) 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time] 💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
Job Brief
We’re looking for a [senior/junior] mortgage underwriter to join our [purchase/refi/mixed] team. You’ll assess risk, ensure compliance with [Fannie/Freddie/FHA/VA/USDA] guidelines, and collaborate with loan officers and processors to move loans efficiently from application to closing.
Responsibilities
- Underwrite [list loan types] within delegated authority; document decisions and conditions.
- Validate income, assets, credit, appraisal/collateral, and program eligibility.
- Communicate proactively with processors/LOs to resolve file issues.
- Keep current on agency guidelines, overlays, and QC requirements.
Requirements
- [X]+ years’ residential underwriting experience (or entry-level with transferable skills for junior roles).
- Knowledge of [Fannie/Freddie + FHA/VA/USDA] guidelines; [DE/SAR preferred/required].
- Strong analytical ability, organization, and written communication.
- Comfort working in LOS/AUS tools (e.g., Encompass, DU/LPA).
Perks & Benefits
- [Salary range + bonus plan if applicable]
- [Health benefits] • [401(k)] • [PTO & holidays]
- [Remote/hybrid options + equipment stipend]
- [Training budget/certification support/mentorship]
Application Process
Apply via WorkScreen.io: [Insert WorkScreen link]. Expect: [evaluation → recruiter screen → panel interview → decision timeline]. We respond to every applicant.
Next Step: Let WorkScreen.io Handle the Rest of the Hiring Process
Writing a strong mortgage underwriter job post is only half the battle — the real challenge comes when applications start rolling in. That’s where WorkScreen.io saves you time and helps you make smarter decisions.
With WorkScreen, you can:
- Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- Easily administer one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Eliminate low-effort applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
- Hire more confidently
Every candidate is measured against the same criteria, giving you a fair, data-driven hiring process.
🛠 Your Mortgage Underwriter Hiring Funnel in Action
- Post your newly written, high-converting job description.
- Share your unique WorkScreen application link across job boards and LinkedIn.
- Let WorkScreen evaluate, score, and rank every applicant.
- Interview only the best fits, knowing they’ve already been pre-vetted.
create your first mortgage underwriter job post, and watch how quickly you can go from “We need to hire” to “We just hired the right one.”
FAQ
Beyond technical knowledge of lending guidelines (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, USDA), top mortgage underwriters excel in:
- Analytical ability — accurately assessing risk based on multiple data points.
- Attention to detail — catching inconsistencies or missing documentation.
- Decision-making skills — issuing approvals, denials, or conditions with confidence.
- Communication skills — explaining decisions clearly to loan officers, processors, and sometimes borrowers.
- Adaptability — staying current with regulatory changes and adjusting to new processes or technologies.
In the U.S., the average annual salary for a mortgage underwriter typically ranges from $60,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, certifications (like DE or SAR), loan type specialization, and location. Senior underwriters or those with niche expertise (e.g., jumbo loans) may earn $90,000–$100,000+ annually, often with performance-based bonuses.
While not always mandatory, certifications can improve credibility and open doors to higher-paying roles:
- FHA Direct Endorsement (DE) Certification
- VA Staff Appraisal Reviewer (SAR) Certification
- USDA Lender Approval Training
- Specialized training from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA)
- Overemphasizing speed over accuracy — which can lead to costly buybacks or compliance issues.
- Not defining loan type focus — hiring without specifying if the role is purchase-heavy, refi-heavy, or mixed.
- Skipping cultural fit assessment — leading to underwriters who don’t mesh with sales or operations teams.
