Asset Management- Commercial Real Estate Debt Underwriter - Associate

Location: New York, NY, United States

Job Family: Portfolio Management

About the Role

At JP Morgan Chase, we are a leading global financial services firm with a proud history of innovation and client-focused solutions. The Asset Management division plays a pivotal role in delivering sophisticated investment strategies, and we're seeking a talented Commercial Real Estate Debt Underwriter - Associate to join our dynamic team in New York, NY. In this position, you will contribute to our Commercial Real Estate (CRE) debt platform by promoting lending opportunities through rigorous identification and underwriting of diverse real estate investments. This role falls under Portfolio Management and offers the chance to work on high-impact deals that shape the future of real estate finance, leveraging JP Morgan's unparalleled resources and market expertise. As an Associate, your primary focus will be on evaluating potential CRE debt investments across various asset classes, such as multifamily housing, office spaces, retail centers, and industrial properties. You will perform in-depth financial analysis, including modeling debt service coverage ratios, assessing collateral values, and stress-testing scenarios to ensure alignment with our risk appetite. Collaborating closely with senior underwriters, portfolio managers, and cross-functional teams, you will prepare comprehensive credit packages and support the structuring of loans that meet both client needs and regulatory standards. This position demands a keen eye for detail and the ability to navigate complex market dynamics, all while upholding JP Morgan's commitment to responsible lending and sustainable practices. We value professionals who thrive in a collaborative, high-stakes environment and are passionate about the intersection of finance and real estate. This role provides exposure to sophisticated deal flow, professional growth opportunities through our renowned training programs, and the chance to contribute to a portfolio that manages billions in assets. If you have a solid foundation in CRE underwriting and a drive to excel at one of the world's most admired financial institutions, join JP Morgan Chase to advance your career while helping our clients achieve their investment goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate lending opportunities in commercial real estate debt, focusing on diverse property types and geographies
• Conduct thorough underwriting of potential investments, including financial statement analysis, property appraisals, and market assessments
• Develop and maintain financial models to project cash flows, debt service coverage, and loan-to-value ratios
• Collaborate with portfolio managers, investment teams, and external partners to structure and negotiate loan terms
• Monitor existing CRE debt portfolios for performance, covenant compliance, and early warning signs of distress
• Assess and mitigate risks associated with interest rate fluctuations, tenant defaults, and economic downturns
• Prepare detailed credit memos and presentations for senior management and investment committees
• Stay abreast of market trends, regulatory changes, and competitive landscapes in CRE lending
• Support due diligence processes for acquisitions and contribute to portfolio optimization strategies
• Foster relationships with borrowers, brokers, and industry stakeholders to source high-quality deal flow

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Real Estate, Business Administration, or a related field
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in commercial real estate lending, underwriting, or portfolio management within the financial services industry
• Strong understanding of commercial real estate debt markets, including multifamily, office, retail, and industrial property types
• Proficiency in financial modeling, cash flow analysis, and valuation techniques for real estate investments
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements such as Basel III, Dodd-Frank, and CRE lending guidelines
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a focus on risk assessment and credit analysis
• CFA, CPA, or similar professional certification (or progress toward obtaining one)

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MBA) with a concentration in Real Estate or Finance
• Experience at a major financial institution like JP Morgan Chase or similar in asset management or commercial banking
• Familiarity with JP Morgan's proprietary underwriting systems and risk management frameworks
• Proven track record in originating and structuring CRE debt deals exceeding $50 million
• Background in sustainable finance or ESG considerations for real estate investments

Required Skills

• Financial modeling and Excel proficiency
• Credit analysis and risk assessment
• Real estate valuation techniques
• Cash flow projection and scenario analysis
• Knowledge of CRE lending regulations
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong written and verbal communication
• Relationship building and negotiation
• Time management in high-pressure environments
• Proficiency in data analytics tools like Tableau or Power BI
• Understanding of macroeconomic factors affecting real estate
• Team collaboration and cross-functional project management
• Adaptability to evolving market conditions
• Ethical decision-making in financial contexts

Benefits

• Competitive base salary and performance-based annual bonuses
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with generous company matching contributions
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick days, and parental leave
• Professional development programs, including tuition reimbursement for advanced certifications
• Employee stock purchase plan and access to JP Morgan's wealth management resources
• Wellness programs, including gym memberships and mental health support
• Flexible work arrangements and relocation assistance for eligible roles

JP Morgan Chase is an equal opportunity employer.