Underwriting Specialist

Location: Metro Manila, National Capital Region, Philippines

Job Family: Underwriting

About the Role

At JP Morgan Chase, we are a leading global financial services firm with a strong presence in the Asia-Pacific region, including our dynamic operations in Metro Manila. As an Underwriting Specialist in our Mortgage Lending division, you will play a pivotal role in evaluating and approving mortgage loans that support homeownership dreams while managing risk in a compliant manner. This position is ideal for detail-oriented professionals passionate about financial services, offering structured training programs to build expertise in underwriting best practices. Based in the heart of the National Capital Region, you will contribute to a team that processes high-volume applications, leveraging JP Morgan's cutting-edge technology and global resources to deliver exceptional outcomes. Your day-to-day responsibilities will involve conducting thorough reviews of loan applications, analyzing borrower financials, and applying JP Morgan Chase's rigorous underwriting standards to ensure loans align with both local Philippine regulations and international benchmarks. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to mitigate risks, resolve complex issues, and support the end-to-end mortgage process. This role demands a keen eye for detail and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, where accuracy directly impacts our clients' financial well-being and the firm's reputation as a trusted lender. We value growth and innovation at JP Morgan Chase, providing ample opportunities for career advancement within our Mortgage Lending and broader Consumer Banking lines of business. Join us to make meaningful contributions to a diverse client base, while benefiting from our commitment to work-life balance, professional development, and a collaborative culture that fosters inclusion and excellence in financial services.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and analyze mortgage loan applications, including borrower credit history, income verification, and property appraisals
• Assess credit risk and determine loan eligibility in accordance with JP Morgan Chase's underwriting guidelines and regulatory requirements
• Collaborate with loan officers, processors, and compliance teams to ensure accurate and timely decision-making
• Conduct detailed financial analysis to identify potential risks and recommend mitigation strategies
• Prepare comprehensive underwriting reports and documentation for internal audits and regulatory submissions
• Stay updated on changes in lending policies, market trends, and Philippine financial regulations
• Support training initiatives for junior underwriters and contribute to process improvements in the Mortgage Lending team
• Handle escalations and complex cases involving high-value loans or unique borrower situations
• Ensure adherence to anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) protocols in all underwriting activities

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field
• At least 2 years of experience in mortgage underwriting, credit analysis, or financial services
• Strong understanding of mortgage lending regulations and compliance standards in the Philippines and international markets
• Proficiency in financial analysis tools and software, such as Excel and underwriting systems
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to handle high-volume workloads
• Authorization to work in the Philippines without sponsorship

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in underwriting for a global financial institution like JP Morgan Chase
• Knowledge of U.S. mortgage guidelines (e.g., Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac) and their application in international contexts
• Certification in mortgage underwriting or credit risk management (e.g., CUAA or equivalent)
• Familiarity with automated underwriting systems and AI-driven risk assessment tools

Required Skills

• Financial analysis and credit risk assessment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial modeling
• Knowledge of mortgage underwriting software (e.g., DU, LP)
• Regulatory compliance and AML/KYC expertise
• Attention to detail and analytical thinking
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Time management and prioritization in fast-paced environments
• Problem-solving and decision-making under pressure
• Team collaboration and stakeholder management
• Adaptability to evolving financial regulations
• Data interpretation from credit reports and financial statements
• Risk identification and mitigation strategies
• Customer service orientation for internal and external interactions
• Technical proficiency in digital tools for remote underwriting

Benefits

• Competitive base salary with performance-based bonuses and incentives
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage for employees and dependents
• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and parental leave
• Professional development programs, including tuition reimbursement and access to JP Morgan's learning platforms
• Employee wellness programs, including gym memberships and mental health support
• Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid options in Metro Manila
• Stock purchase plan and other financial perks tailored to financial services professionals

JP Morgan Chase is an equal opportunity employer.