Senior Underwriting Counsel
Company Description
First American Financial Corporation is a leading provider of title, settlement, and risk solutions for residential and commercial real estate transactions. Backed by more than 130 years of financial strength, stability, and innovation, the company is at the forefront of the digital transformation of the real estate industry. In addition to title and settlement services, First American delivers data products, valuation services, mortgage subservicing, home warranty offerings, and banking, trust, and wealth management solutions. The organization serves home buyers and sellers, real estate professionals, lenders, servicers, commercial property specialists, and homebuilders with products tailored to their specific needs. With billions in annual revenue and a broad presence across the United States and international markets, First American offers a dynamic environment for legal and underwriting professionals. Role Description The Senior Underwriting Counsel is a full-time, remote role responsible for providing advanced legal and underwriting guidance on complex title and real estate transactions. Day-to-day work includes reviewing and analyzing title reports, policies, and underwriting requests, identifying risk factors, and recommending appropriate coverage, exceptions, and endorsements. The role collaborates closely with internal teams, agents, and customers to resolve legal and underwriting issues, supports the development of underwriting standards and best practices, and helps ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and company policies. The Senior Underwriting Counsel may draft and edit underwriting guidelines, training materials, and legal opinions, and contribute to process improvements that enhance efficiency and risk management across the organization. This position requires sound judgment, clear written and verbal communication, and the ability to handle a high volume of varied, time-sensitive matters in a distributed work environment.
Qualifications
Strong expertise in real estate law, title insurance, and underwriting principles, with the ability to analyze complex transactions and risk profiles. Proficiency in legal research, drafting clear legal opinions, and interpreting statutes, regulations, and case law relevant to real estate and title insurance. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex legal and underwriting concepts to non-legal stakeholders. Demonstrated collaboration and relationship-building skills for working effectively with internal teams, agents, and external partners in a remote setting. High level of attention to detail, organization, and time management, with experience prioritizing multiple matters and meeting strict deadlines. Comfort with technology, including document management systems, underwriting platforms, and standard office productivity tools. Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school and active bar membership in at least one U.S. jurisdiction. Several years of experience in title insurance, real estate law, or related underwriting counsel roles; prior experience in a national or regional title