Loan Officer I

Key Responsibilities

• Develop new lending opportunities through referrals, networking, branch partnerships, and community involvement.
• Build and maintain relationships with new and existing customers.
• Cross-sell appropriate bank products and services to strengthen customer relationships.
• Participate in community events and represent the bank in a professional manner.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for consumer borrowers and smaller commercial customers throughout the lending process.
• Meet with prospective borrowers to identify financing needs and recommend appropriate loan products.
• Provide timely communication and outstanding customer service throughout the loan lifecycle.
• Develop trusted relationships that encourage repeat business and referrals.
• Collect, review, and analyze borrower financial information, including credit reports, tax returns, and financial statements.
• Analyze loan requests within assigned lending authority.
• Prepare complete loan presentations for requests requiring additional approval.
• Work closely with senior loan officers and credit administration to strengthen underwriting skills.
• Prepare adverse action and denial notices accurately and within regulatory timeframes.
• Absorb and understand all aspects of the lending process while ensuring compliance with bank policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in structuring loan requests that balance customer needs with sound lending practices.
• Review loan documentation for completeness and accuracy.
• Carefully coordinate with Loan Processing and other internal departments to facilitate timely closings.
• Ensure loan files meet documentation and compliance standards.
• Maintain regular customer contact to identify additional banking opportunities.
• Follow all bank policies, lending procedures, and applicable federal and state regulations.
• Complete all required compliance and professional development training.
• Attend loan committee meetings, lending meetings, and internal training sessions as assigned.
• Continue developing lending, underwriting, and relationship management skills.

Competencies

• Strong customer service orientation
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Developing financial and analytical skills
• Relationship-building ability
• Initiative and willingness to learn
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Attention to detail
• Professionalism and integrity
• Ability to work collaboratively with internal departments

Education & Experience

• A high school diploma or equivalent required.
• An associate's or bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, or a related field preferred.
• One to three years of banking or financial services experience preferred.
• Consumer lending or customer service experience preferred.
• Formal credit training is a plus, but not required.