Loan Setup Specialist / Pre-Underwriting Analyst
Pennymac is a specialty financial services firm focused on the production and servicing of U.S. mortgage loans. The Loan Setup Specialist / Pre-Underwriting Analyst is responsible for reviewing and structuring mortgage loan files prior to submission to underwriting, ensuring all documentation is complete and compliant.
Responsibilities
- Review incoming loan files for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with company policies, investor guidelines, and regulatory requirements
- Validate loan structure, including loan program eligibility, product selection, occupancy, property type, and transaction purpose
- Analyze borrower documentation such as income, assets, credit reports, and liabilities to ensure accuracy and consistency
- Identify missing, incorrect, or conflicting information and request appropriate documentation or corrections
- Set up loan files accurately in the loan origination system (LOS) prior to underwriting submission
- Ensure disclosures, fees, and credits align with loan structure and compliance standards
- Review appraisals, AVMs, and property documentation for accuracy and guideline alignment when applicable
- Collaborate with Loan Officers, Brokers, Account Executives, and internal teams to resolve issues and prevent delays
- Document clear, concise notes within the loan file to support underwriting review
- Adhere to service-level agreements (SLAs), productivity goals, and quality standards
- Follow all company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements at all times
- Consistently meet or exceed daily production and quality benchmarks
- Maintain low error and rework rates
- Demonstrate adherence to schedules, SLAs, and company policies
- Maintain professional conduct and effective collaboration with internal and external partners
Skills
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- 1–3 years of experience in mortgage processing, underwriting support, loan setup, or a related role
- Strong understanding of mortgage loan products (Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, Non-QM as applicable)
- Working knowledge of underwriting guidelines and pre-underwriting review standards
- High attention to detail and strong analytical skills
- Ability to identify risk, discrepancies, and guideline conflicts early in the process
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
- Strong time management skills with the ability to meet production goals in a fast-paced environment
- Proficiency with loan origination systems (e.g., Encompass) and mortgage documentation
- College coursework in finance, business, or related field preferred
- Prior experience reviewing income, assets, and credit documentation preferred
Benefits
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision
- Paid Time Off Programs including vacation, holidays, illness, and parental leave
- Wellness Programs, Employee Recognition Programs, and onsite gyms and cafe style dining (select locations)
- Retirement benefits, life insurance, 401k match, and tuition reimbursement
- Philanthropy Programs including matching gifts, volunteer grants, charitable grants and corporate sponsorships
Company Overview
Company H1B Sponsorship