Associate Underwriter/Commercial Escrow Officer

Who We Are

Join a team that puts its People First! As a member of First American's family of companies, National Commercial Services provides single-point service for simple to multi-property/multi-state national commercial real estate transactions. Since 1889, First American (NYSE: FAF) has held an unwavering belief in its people. They are passionate about what they do, and we are equally passionate about fostering an environment where all feel welcome, supported, and empowered to be innovative and reach their full potential. Our inclusive, people-first culture has earned our company numerous accolades, including being named to the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® list for eleven consecutive years. We have also earned awards as a best place to work for women, diversity and LGBTQ+ employees, and have been included on more than 50 regional best places to work lists. First American will always strive to be a great place to work, for all. For more information, please visit www.careers.firstam.com.

What We Do

Provides underwriting and escrow expertise to internal teams, agents, and customers for commercial real estate transactions. Assists in the evaluation of title risk and the issuance of title insurance commitments and policies within delegated authority. Supports the coordination and processing of escrow and closing activities, including establishing escrow accounts, preparing and reviewing transaction documents, and facilitating closings. Acts as a neutral third party to ensure accurate and timely settlement while delivering quality customer service to internal and external stakeholders.

Essential Functions

• Provides underwriting and escrow support to internal teams, agents, and customers for commercial title insurance commitments and policies.
• Reviews title evidence and transaction documents to identify potential issues; escalates more complex matters to senior underwriting staff.
• Applies established underwriting standards and guidelines within delegated authority.
• Assists in determining escrow and closing requirements by reviewing buyer, seller, and lender instructions.
• Prepares and reviews transaction documents, including settlement statements, escrow instructions, and closing packages.
• Interprets purchase agreements, loan documents, and escrow instructions to support closing preparation.
• Establishes and maintains escrow accounts, including receipt and tracking of funds.
• Performs basic financial calculations, including prorations for taxes, interest, and other adjustments.
• Supports closing activities by assembling documents, confirming completeness, and assisting with execution.
• Coordinates recording of documents and supports issuance of final title policies.
• Assists with balancing and disbursing escrow funds in accordance with established procedures.
• Communicates with internal partners and external customers to provide status updates and resolve routine issues.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of commercial real estate title insurance and escrow/settlement processes.
• Foundational understanding of underwriting principles and title risk evaluation.
• Familiarity with applicable federal and state regulations.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize workload, and meet deadlines.
• Customer-focused mindset with a willingness to learn and develop technical expertise.

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) preferred
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience required

Experience

• 1–4 years of experience in title, escrow, or real estate-related field preferred
• Basic familiarity with real estate law and closing practices

What We Offer

By choice, we don’t simply accept individuality – we embrace it, we support it, and we thrive on it! Our People First Culture celebrates diversity, equity and inclusion not simply because it’s the right thing to do, but also because it’s the key to our success. We are proud to foster an authentic and inclusive workplace For All. You are free and encouraged to bring your entire, unique self to work. First American is an equal opportunity employer in every sense of the term.

Based on eligibility, First American offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401k, PTO/paid sick leave and other great benefits like an employee stock purchase plan.