Director of Operations, Appraisal Services

Here at Lower, we believe homeownership is the key to building wealth, and we're making it easier and more accessible than ever. As a mission-driven fintech, we simplify the home-buying process through cutting-edge technology and a seamless customer experience.

With tens of billions in funded home loans and top ratings on Trustpilot (4.8), Google (4.9), and Zillow (4.9), we're a leader in the industry. But what truly sets us apart? Our people. Join us and be part of something bigger.

Job Description:

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: This role can be fully remote, or hybrid at either our Columbus, OH or Austin, TX office.

Pay: $90,000 - $105,000 + 10% bonus

About the Role

We're looking for an experienced, results-oriented operations leader to oversee and elevate the Appraisal department. This role will manage people, processes, and vendor relationships to ensure timely, compliant, and high-quality appraisal delivery that supports our company's growth.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong mortgage operations experience who can streamline workflows, partner cross-functionally, and guide a team toward operational excellence.

What You'll Do

Lead and manage the daily operations of the Appraisal department, ensuring smooth workflows and efficient service delivery.

Develop, refine, and implement processes that improve turnaround times, accuracy, and scalability.

Partner with internal teams - including Processing, Underwriting, Compliance, and Vendor Management - to optimize communication and reduce bottlenecks.

Manage Appraisal Management Company (AMC) and vendor relationships, holding partners accountable for quality and performance metrics.

Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and report on departmental outcomes to senior leadership.

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and investor requirements related to appraisal operations.

Foster a high-performing, engaged team culture centered on accountability, continuous improvement, and service excellence.

What You Bring

5+ years of experience in mortgage operations, appraisal coordination, or vendor management.

2+ years of leadership or management experience in a regulated environment.

Strong understanding of the appraisal process and its impact on loan quality and cycle times.

Proven ability to lead teams through change, streamline operations, and drive measurable results.

Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Experience using appraisal management or LOS platforms (Encompass, Reggora, Mercury, etc.) preferred.

What Success Looks Like

Efficient and predictable appraisal operations that consistently meet SLAs.

Improved vendor performance and internal stakeholder satisfaction.

Clear processes, better accountability, and reduced manual work.

A confident, motivated team operating with limited oversight.

Why Join Us

You'll play a pivotal role in strengthening one of the most important links in our mortgage ecosystem. This is an opportunity to lead at scale, shape how appraisal operations support the business, and leave a lasting impact on efficiency and client experience.

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