Rural 1st Underwriter

About Our Opportunity

The Rural 1st  Underwriter analyzes and decisions consumer loans, provides guidance on loan servicing actions, and supports other credit services in accordance with association standards and industry regulations.

This role contributes independently to routine and recurring work with growing confidence and consistency. It applies established procedures, manages assigned responsibilities effectively, and collaborates with others to support business outcomes. Team members at this level are expanding functional knowledge, strengthening judgment, and developing problem-solving skills within defined parameters.

How You Will Spend Your Time

• Partners with sales and internal and external stakeholders to understand customer objectives, financial position, and credit risks, structuring sound and innovative credit solutions that meet customer needs, comply with service level expectations, and maintain association credit quality standards.
• Analyzes new loan applications originated by sales teams and alliance partners, exercising delegated authority to deliver timely credit decisions and recommend appropriate terms and conditions to manage risk.
• Reviews and evaluates servicing related loan requests requiring credit decisions, balancing customer needs with prudent risk management.
• Maintains current knowledge of industry and consumer lending trends, Rural 1st market dynamics, and updates to the Association’s credit philosophy, policies, and standards to support consistent, high quality underwriting decisions.
• Leads and participates in cross training and job shadowing initiatives to broaden credit knowledge within the Consumer Credit teams and across partnering functions.
• Completes routine assignments independently using established procedures and sound judgment.
• Applies working knowledge to resolve common issues and identifies when to seek guidance.
• Communicates clearly with teammates and internal partners to support coordinated work.
• Organizes workload to meet deadlines and deliver consistent, reliable outcomes.
• Contributes ideas that strengthen processes, accuracy, and effectiveness.
• Uses available tools and resources to resolve straightforward issues and improve confidence.

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma/GED with 5 years relevant experience required. 
• Bachelor's Degree with 1 year relevant experience preferred. 

Mental & Physical Requirements

While engaged in this position, team members will routinely sit, use hands for tasks, and communicate orally. Standing or walking is frequently required, while occasional demands include reaching with hands and arms, and lifting or moving up to ten pounds. Vision requirements encompass close and distance vision. The work environment typically has a moderate noise level. This role may entail a blend of mental and physical capabilities, requiring strong mental acuity, problem-solving skills, and occasional physical tasks such as standing, lifting, or extended computer usage. Some roles may require physical or mental requirements related to driving, such as a valid driver's license, and the ability to drive a long-distance. Reasonable accommodations will be considered for individuals as requested.