Commercial Underwriter

Description

*Our preference is to fill this position in Tuscaloosa, AL, but we are open to candidates in the Huntsville, AL or Birmingham, AL markets.

Job Summary

The Commercial Underwriter is responsible for evaluating, analyzing, and underwriting commercial loan requests to ensure sound credit decisions that align with the Bank’s risk tolerance and lending policies. This position works closely with Relationship Managers, Credit Administration, and Executive Management to structure credit solutions that meet client needs while maintaining portfolio quality and regulatory compliance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Analyze financial statements, tax returns, cash flow projections, and collateral documentation to determine borrower creditworthiness.
• Evaluate loan requests for new and existing commercial and/or consumer clients, including renewals, modifications, and annual reviews.
• Prepare detailed credit memos outlining loan recommendations, risk ratings, and mitigating factors.
• Assess borrower, guarantor, and collateral strength to ensure loans adhere to Bank policy, regulatory guidelines, and prudent underwriting practices.
• Collaborate with Loan Officers and Senior Management to structure and price commercial credit facilities.
• Identify and communicate potential risks, weaknesses, and exceptions to policy; propose risk mitigation strategies.
• Maintain thorough documentation supporting credit decisions and ensure timely completion of underwriting assignments.
• Monitor portfolio performance and assist in identifying deteriorating credits or emerging risks.
• Support ongoing compliance with internal loan policy, FDIC, OCC, and other regulatory requirements.
• Assist with periodic portfolio reviews, audits, and loan review examinations.
• Participate in the development and continuous improvement of underwriting procedures and tools.
• Any other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, Economics, or related field required.
• 3–5 years of experience in commercial credit analysis, underwriting, or related banking role.
• Strong knowledge of commercial lending practices, loan structures, and regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency in financial statement analysis, ratio analysis, and cash flow modeling.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear, concise credit recommendations.
• High attention to detail and accuracy; strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and financial spreading software.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Full-time position, Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm C.T. with a 1-hour lunch break.
• This position may involve work outside of the standard schedule including, but not limited to, assisting customers, completing tasks or assignments, work-related events, etc.
• 100% in-office position.
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
• Professional attire required.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Local Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Local Bank reserves the right to modify this job description at any time.