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Mortgage Underwriter Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Possess general mortgage banking understanding (including but not limited to: lock procedures, program analysis, underwriting guidelines, and regulatory timelines) * Proficiency with MS Office and ...

Mortgage Banking Pay Transparency Salary Range: Not Available Application Deadline: 09/30/2026 BOK ... Working knowledge of underwriting criteria * Excellent interpersonal skills, and oral and written ...

Mortgage Banking Pay Transparency Salary Range: Not Available Application Deadline: 09/30/2026 BOK ... Working knowledge of underwriting criteria * Excellent interpersonal skills, and oral and written ...

Mortgage Banking Pay Transparency Salary Range: Not Available Application Deadline: 09/30/2026 BOK ... Working knowledge of underwriting criteria * Excellent interpersonal skills, and oral and written ...

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Mortgage Underwriter information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$15

$26

$48

How much do mortgage underwriter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for mortgage underwriter in Rio Rancho, NM is $26.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $31.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mortgage underwriter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mortgage Underwriter, you need a solid understanding of lending regulations, risk assessment, and financial analysis, often supported by a background in finance, business, or accounting. Familiarity with loan origination systems (LOS), automated underwriting systems (AUS) like DU or LP, and relevant certifications such as the Certified Mortgage Underwriter (NAMU-CMU) are typically required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you evaluate complex applications and collaborate with loan officers. These capabilities are crucial for accurately assessing borrower risk, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining the integrity of the lending process.

What qualifications do you need to be a mortgage underwriter?

To become a mortgage underwriter, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers preferring a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, analytical ability, and experience with underwriting software or financial analysis. Certifications such as the Mortgage Underwriter Certification (MU) can enhance job prospects.

What are some common challenges mortgage underwriters face during the loan approval process?

Mortgage underwriters often encounter challenges such as assessing complex financial documents, identifying potential fraud, and ensuring compliance with ever-changing lending regulations. They must balance thorough risk assessment with timely decision-making to meet tight deadlines and maintain customer satisfaction. Additionally, underwriters frequently collaborate with loan officers and processors to clarify borrower information and resolve discrepancies, which requires strong communication and problem-solving skills.

What does a mortgage underwriter do?

A mortgage underwriter determines whether to approve or decline a request for a loan based on the credit, collateral, and capacity of the borrower. As a mortgage underwriter, you typically work on both commercial and residential transactions. Your responsibilities include managing the risk for the lender and verifying the information on applications. Your duties also include working with specially designed software to help make financially sound decisions. Some positions involve a sales component where you actively solicit new business or form partnerships with realtors. A mortgage underwriting job is usually full-time and may require frequent travel to meet with clients onsite.

What does a mortgage underwriter do?

A Mortgage Underwriter is responsible for evaluating and assessing loan applications to determine if a borrower qualifies for a mortgage. They review financial documents such as credit reports, income statements, and property appraisals to ensure all guidelines and regulations are met. The underwriter's decision helps lenders manage risk and ensures that loans are only approved for qualified applicants.

Is it hard to become a mortgage underwriter?

Becoming a mortgage underwriter requires a strong understanding of loan guidelines, financial analysis skills, and often a relevant certification such as the Mortgage Bankers Association's certification. While some entry-level positions are available, advancing in the field may require experience and knowledge of underwriting software and regulations, making it moderately challenging for newcomers.

Is mortgage underwriting a stressful job?

Mortgage underwriting can be stressful due to strict deadlines, detailed financial analysis, and the need for accuracy to assess risk. Underwriters often work in fast-paced environments and must stay current with lending regulations, which can contribute to job pressure.

What is the difference between Mortgage Underwriter vs Loan Processor?

AspectMortgage UnderwriterLoan Processor
CredentialsTypically requires mortgage licensing, underwriting certifications, or related trainingRequires loan processing training, sometimes mortgage licensing, but less specialized
Work EnvironmentAnalyzes loan applications, reviews financial documents, and assesses riskPrepares and organizes loan documents, communicates with applicants and lenders
Employer & IndustryFinancial institutions, mortgage lenders, banksMortgage companies, banks, credit unions

The main difference is that mortgage underwriters evaluate the risk of a loan application and make approval decisions, while loan processors handle the documentation and preparation process to ensure all required information is complete for underwriting.

What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Mortgage Underwriter jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Mortgage Underwriter job openings:
Infographic showing various Mortgage Underwriter job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,830 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Mortgage Loan Underwriter

Kirtland Federal Credit Union

Albuquerque, NM โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Working at Kirtland CU is more than a job-it's a career, and one in the financial world! We pride ourselves on helping our employees learn, grow, and advance in any direction they choose. We offer a highly competitive salary, great benefits package and an energetic, vibrant work environment. 
 
We are currently seeking a Mortgage Loan Underwriter to join Kirtland Credit Union! This is a regular, full-time, position that is fully remote based on geographical location. 

Join the rest of our teammates and become eligible for a generous benefits package that we offer:

  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement savings program 
  • 401 (k) employer match 
  • Paid time off with accrual starting from day one.
  • 11 Paid holidays off during the year! 
  • Tuition Reimbursement for College Degrees
  • Employee Clothing Advance
  • Fitness Reimbursement Program
  • Employer paid Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employer paid Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Travel Assistance Program
  • This is what we would like you to do:

    Responsible for reviewing and underwriting mortgage loans. Identifies, analyzes, and evaluates loan risks and compensating factors, and ensures the marketability of closed loans and the safety of Credit Union assets. Approves, suspends, or denies loan applications. Ensures that loans are approved within the terms of the Credit Union's standards and procedures, regulatory underwriting guidelines, and FHA, VA, and other secondary market requirements. Provides support to Mortgage Loan Personnel. Support the credit unionโ€™s mission, vision, values, strategic goals, and service standards.
     

    Primary Job Duties:

  • Assumes responsibility for reviewing appraisals and ensuring that determined values are well documented.
  • Assumes responsibility for accurately evaluating the credit worthiness of potential borrowers.
  • Evaluates applicant's employment history. Ensures that the probability of continued employment is good. Verifies at least two years of employment history and ensures that all income used in qualifying is expected to continue for at least 3 years or meets secondary marketing guidelines. Evaluates likelihood of job tenure. Assesses overtime, bonuses, and commissions used to qualify. Analyzes tax returns and balance sheets of self-employed applicants. 
  • Evaluates the adequacy of the applicant's income and the probability that the member will be able to meet expected financial obligations. Assesses family support requirements. Compares previous housing expenses with proposed expenses. Examines income trends and determines possibilities for increased income in future years. 
  • Assesses potential borrower's assets. Ensures that assets meet closing requirements, are derived from acceptable sources, and that acceptable levels of reserves will remain after closing.
  • Reviews borrower's credit. Reviews the manner in which obligations have been met and financial affairs managed. Investigates derogatory credit. Ensures that all previous mortgage histories are rated and all debts are appropriately listed and rated. 
  • Orders private mortgage insurance in compliance with PMI guidelines. 
  • Completes all underwriting functions in accordance with various program requirements, Credit Union standards, and related legal and regulatory requirements. 
  • Completes related documentation and reports. Maintains files and ensures their completeness. 
  • Ensures that all lending conditions have been satisfactorily met prior to closing. Ensures the marketability of closed loans and the safety of Credit Union assets.
  • Assumes responsibility for establishing and maintaining effective communication and coordination with Credit Union personnel and with management.
  • Assumes responsibility for establishing and maintaining professional working relations with members and external lending professionals and governmental agencies.
  • Education/Certification:

  • High school diploma required 
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in business or related field preferred.
  • Experience Required:

  • Three years of directly related experience in the credit field required
  • DE (Direct Endorsement) qualification from housing and urban development and can underwriter and approve government loans required.
  • Licensed Mortgage Underwriter with direct experience operating under the LAPP/SAR (Lender Appraisal Processing Program / Staff Appraisal Reviewer) authority, actively issuing Notices of Value (NOVs) within the past year required.
  • Proven expertise reviewing, analyzing, and approving residential appraisals in compliance with Fannie Mae guidelines preferred. 
  • Extensive experience utilizing Desktop Underwriter (DU) for automated underwriting decisions, risk assessment, and loan eligibility validation preferred. 
  • Strong background in credit, income, asset, and collateral analysis to support sound underwriting decisions preferred. 
  • Demonstrated ability to ensure regulatory compliance, maintain quality control, and mitigate lending risk preferred. 
  • Two years of Financial Institution experience preferred. 
  • Experience in general mortgage or real estate lending required
  • Experience with calculating loan-to-value and debt to income preferred.
  • Required knowledge, skills and abilities

  • Knowledge of financial statements, credit reports, tax returns, and appraisals preferred.
  • Full understanding of FHA, VA, and conventional underwriting requirements preferred.
  • Knowledge of Credit Union lending programs, policies, procedures, and standards preferred.
  • Able to use all related computer applications preferred.
  • Knowledge of real estate closing documents, loan products, and lending compliance and Regulations preferred.
  • Knowledge of all applicable regulations and laws preferred.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work well with members and other employees 
  • Maintain professional appearance and conduct 
  • Teamwork skills 
  • Multi-task and detail oriented 
  • Ability to work within tight deadlines 
  • Problem solving ability of moderate difficulty handling high dollar financial transactions 
  • Ability to manage irate members in a professional manner 
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite

  • To apply for this exciting opportunity, visit our careers page at www.kirtlandcu.org/careers

    Kirtland Credit Union is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.



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