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Usda Underwriter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Underwrite conventional and government loan products (FNMA, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, USDA/Rural Development, and applicable portfolio or specialty programs) with a focus on investmentquality and salable ...

Underwrite conventional and government loan products (FNMA, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, USDA/Rural Development, and applicable portfolio or specialty programs) with a focus on investment‑quality and ...

Underwrite conventional and government loan products (FNMA, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, USDA/Rural Development, and applicable portfolio or specialty programs) with a focus on investmentquality and salable ...

Responsibilities • Underwrite and issue credit decisions on FHA, VA, and conventional mortgage ... VA, USDA, CONSTRUCTION, AND NON-QM guidelines. • Strong attention to detail with excellent ...

Underwrite conventional and government loan products (FNMA, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, USDA/Rural Development, and applicable portfolio or specialty programs) with a focus on investment-quality and ...

Underwrite loans to current FHA, VA, USDA, and Conventional guidelines. * Perform manual underwrites for loans that do not receive AUS Approve/Eligible findings. * Interpret and evaluate complex self ...

Underwrite conventional and government loan products (FNMA, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, USDA/Rural Development, and applicable portfolio or specialty programs) with a focus on investmentquality and salable ...

Underwrite and issue credit decisions on FHA, VA, and conventional mortgage loans in compliance ... Thorough knowledge of FNMA, FHLMC, FHA, VA, USDA, CONSTRUCTION, AND NON-QM guidelines. * Strong ...

Underwriting Location: Virtual/On-site preferred (Meridian, ID) Employment Type: Full-Time DE ... VA/USDA highly preferred * Multi state highly preferred * Ability to effectively communicate both ...

Underwrite mortgage loans in accordance with investor, agency, and government guidelines (FHA, VA, USDA/RD, MHSDA, OHFA, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac) * Review loan documentation, disclosures, and ...

Senior Underwriter

Grand Rapids, MI

$94K - $111K/yr

Underwrite mortgage loans in accordance with investor, agency, and government guidelines (FHA, VA, USDA/RD, MHSDA, OHFA, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac) * Review loan documentation, disclosures, and ...

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Usda Underwriter information

See salary details

$32.5K

$78.9K

$139.5K

How much do usda underwriter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for usda underwriter in the United States is $78,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,000.00 and $87,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a USDA Underwriter, you need a deep understanding of mortgage underwriting guidelines, risk assessment, and government loan programs, typically supported by experience in mortgage lending and a relevant degree. Familiarity with automated underwriting systems (AUS), loan origination software, and regulatory compliance tools is vital. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout underwriters apart. These competencies ensure accurate loan decisions, regulatory adherence, and a smooth approval process for USDA-backed mortgages.

What are some common challenges USDA Underwriters face when assessing rural property eligibility?

USDA Underwriters often encounter challenges verifying that properties meet USDA’s rural and eligibility requirements, especially when boundaries and property types are unclear. They must carefully review appraisals, flood zone maps, and property records to ensure compliance with USDA guidelines. Additionally, navigating unique rural property features, such as outbuildings or mixed-use land, requires careful analysis to confirm they don't disqualify the loan. Strong attention to detail and clear communication with loan officers and appraisers are essential to overcome these challenges.

What is a USDA Underwriter?

A USDA Underwriter is a mortgage professional responsible for reviewing and evaluating loan applications for mortgages backed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Their primary role is to assess an applicant’s financial information, property eligibility, and compliance with USDA Rural Development guidelines to determine if the loan meets all program requirements. They ensure that both the borrower and the property meet the standards set by the USDA before approving or denying the loan. USDA Underwriters play a crucial role in facilitating affordable homeownership in rural areas by safeguarding the integrity and standards of the program.

What is the difference between Usda Underwriter vs FHA Underwriter?

AspectUsda UnderwriterFHA Underwriter
CredentialsTypically requires mortgage underwriting experience, relevant certifications (e.g., MLO license)Similar credentials, often with FHA-specific training or certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily with USDA loan applications, rural property assessmentsHandles FHA loan files, urban and suburban properties
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by USDA-approved lenders, government-backed rural housing programsUsed by FHA-approved lenders, government-backed urban housing programs

Both USDA and FHA underwriters evaluate mortgage applications for government-backed loans, requiring similar skills and certifications. The main difference lies in the loan programs they support and the types of properties they assess, with USDA underwriters focusing on rural areas and FHA underwriters on urban and suburban properties.

More about Usda Underwriter jobs
Infographic showing various Usda Underwriter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,878 per year, or $37.9 per hour.
Mortgage Loan Underwriter

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Seacoast Bank rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 149 rated banks


Job description

JOB SUMMARY:  
The Mortgage Underwriter is responsible for independently assessing and underwriting conventional and government residential mortgage loan applications to evaluate credit risk and determine loan acceptability in accordance with agency, investor, and regulatory guidelines. This role carries significant lending authority and fiduciary responsibility, ensuring sound credit decisions while supporting an efficient, highquality borrower experience. 

 ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Underwrite conventional and government loan products (FNMA, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, USDA/Rural Development, and applicable portfolio or specialty programs) with a focus on investmentquality and salable loans.  
  • Perform thorough risk analysis of borrower credit, income, assets, collateral, and overall loan structure to ensure compliance with agency, investor, and internal credit standards.  
  • Exercise delegated underwriting authority within approved limits; escalate or present loans exceeding authority or containing exceptions to Senior Management or Credit Committee as required.  
  • Prepare and submit mortgage insurance (MI) packages to private mortgage insurance companies for loans requiring MI approval outside delegated authority.  
  • Maintain current knowledge of agency, investor, and MI guidelines, including policy updates and underwriting changes.  
  • Partner with Loan Officers, Processors, and Operations staff to resolve underwriting issues efficiently while maintaining credit integrity.  
  • Provide guidance, training, and technical support to lending and processing teams on underwriting guidelines, risk considerations, and documentation requirements.  
  • Ensure adherence to all fair lending, AML/BSA, and consumer protection regulations, including CIP, due diligence, enhanced due diligence, and disclosure requirements.  
  • Underwrite all loans in compliance with Fair Housing Act, ECOA, and fair lending standards, ensuring consistent, unbiased treatment of all applicants.  
  • Review and document policy exceptions in accordance with approved exception authority and governance standards.  
  • Act ethically and professionally in alignment with the Associate Code of Conduct, reporting customer concerns or complaints as appropriate.  
  • Support audits, quality control reviews, and regulatory exams by providing thorough documentation and rationale for credit decisions. 
  • Adheres to Seacoast Bank’s Code of Conduct. 

                           EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:  

                          • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited fouryear college or university or equivalent demonstrated knowledge and experience in residential mortgage underwriting. 
                          • Four or more years of experience in residential mortgage underwriting, including conventional and government loan products. 
                          • Strong working knowledge of FNMA, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, USDA/Rural Development, private mortgage insurance requirements, and applicable state or housing programs (e.g., SHIP). 
                          • Ability to independently analyze complex credit scenarios and make wellreasoned risk decisions. 
                          • Ability to read, interpret, and apply agency guidelines, investor overlays, regulatory requirements, and internal policies. 
                          • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly document underwriting decisions and exception rationale. 
                          • Strong analytical and quantitative skills, including the ability to evaluate ratios, percentages, interest calculations, and amortization concepts. 
                          • Proficiency with loan origination systems, underwriting tools, and office productivity software (e.g., spreadsheet and wordprocessing applications). 
                          • Ability to manage multiple priorities, exercise sound judgment, and operate effectively in a fastpaced, deadlinedriven environment. 
                          • Experience presenting underwriting guidance in group training or coaching settings preferred. 
                          • Ensures compliance with AML/BSA, Fair Lending, investor, and regulatory requirements throughout the underwriting process. 
                          • Maintains confidentiality and treats borrower information with the highest level of integrity. 

                          The Statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills.  Because these statements are general, the job description is used for a variety of purposes including job evaluations; performance reviews; recruitment; etc. All Associates are required to adhere to the highest legal and ethical standards applicable to our industry.  It is the policy of Seacoast Bank that all Associates will be familiar and compliant with all regulatory, legal, ethical and Bank risk mitigation requirements pertaining to both our industry and their individual roles.  This includes the on time, successful completion of annual required training post-hire and effective execution of role responsibilities.   


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