External Mortgage Loan Officer

Job Summary

The External Mortgage Loan Officer drives mortgage growth by developing new business opportunities and expanding referral partnerships within the community. Acting as a trusted advisor, this role builds strong relationships with real estate professionals, builders, and other key partners to enhance market presence and deliver personalized mortgage solutions. The position focuses on originating quality residential loans, fostering long-term partnerships, and providing an exceptional member experience while contributing to overall mortgage production and organizational goals.

Job Responsibilities

• Originate first mortgage loans by identifying prospective borrowers, assessing financing needs, and guiding members through the mortgage application process
• Prepare, review, and deliver required loan disclosures and documentation in compliance with applicable regulatory and lending requirements
• Manage and monitor the mortgage loan pipeline, coordinating with processors, underwriters, and other internal partners to facilitate timely approvals and closings
• Communicate loan status, requirements, and next steps to members and stakeholders throughout the lending process
• Develops and executes business development initiatives that drive mortgage loan production and referral growth through prospecting, networking, community engagement, relationship management, and pipeline development
• Establishes and maintains partnerships with real estate agents, builders, financial planners, attorneys, accountants, and other referral sources
• Participates in industry events, educational seminars, trade associations, and community activities to maintain market presence
• Collaborates with branch teams and internal business units to support mortgage referrals and strengthen member relationships

Minimum Required Qualifications

• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered.
• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• 1+ year of experience in mortgage lending, sales, relationship management, or relevant transferable experience.
• Federal registration with the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS).
• Established referral network, book of business, or experience developing external business relationships within mortgage or real estate markets.

Preferred Qualifications

• A degree or specialized training in business, finance, real estate, or related field.
• 2+ years of mortgage loan origination experience.
• Experience working in a credit union, banking, financial services, or other highly regulated environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Knowledge of mortgage lending principles, real estate transactions, secondary market guidelines, and applicable federal and state regulations, including BSA, Patriot Act, and OFAC requirements.
• Knowledge of mortgage products, loan underwriting criteria, credit evaluation practices, and loan origination processes.
• Knowledge of local housing markets, competitive lending programs, and industry trends impacting mortgage lending.
• Skilled in analyzing financial information, credit reports, income documentation, and loan applications to evaluate borrowing capacity and lending risk.
• Skilled in relationship building, networking, and business development techniques.
• Skilled in communicating complex financial and mortgage-related information clearly.
• Skilled in negotiating loan solutions within established guidelines to meet member financing needs.
• Skilled in using loan origination systems, customer relationship management tools, and other technology platforms.
• Ability to manage multiple loan applications, prioritize competing deadlines, and maintain accuracy.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external partners.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion when handling sensitive member and financial information.
• Ability to interpret and apply lending policies, regulatory requirements, and procedural guidelines.
• Ability to adapt to changing regulatory requirements, market conditions, business needs, and organizational priorities.

Work Environment

• Hybrid (combination of remote & onsite) work environment; requires regular use of online tools, systems, and collaboration platforms.
• Frequent travel to meet with referral partners, members, and attend networking events.
• Attendance at offsite meetings, events, or conferences as needed.

Physical Abilities

• Ability to work at a computer in a stationary position for up to 8 hours per day.
• Ability to occasionally carry light materials (e.g., laptop, presentation materials).