Commercial Underwriter I, II or III

$87,000 - $135,000/Yr

Tri Counties Bank - Pasadena, CA

Full-time - Entry Level

Pasadena, CA

Credit Intermediation and Related Activities

About the position

The Commercial Underwriter plays a crucial role in the financial operations of Tri Counties Bank by underwriting commercial business, real estate, agriculture, and SBA 504 loan requests. This position involves a thorough analysis of financial information to determine creditworthiness and make informed loan recommendations. The underwriter is responsible for approving loan requests within their authority and ensuring that all necessary documentation is prepared for legal processing. They work closely with sales staff to maximize cross-selling opportunities and ensure that loan requests are processed accurately and in a timely manner. The role also includes monitoring compliance with reporting requirements and managing delinquencies to maintain the health of the loan portfolio. In addition to analyzing loan applications, the Commercial Underwriter confers with Relationship Managers to understand client needs and discuss potential options for borrowers. They are tasked with coordinating the credit approval process, evaluating repayment capabilities, and mitigating risks associated with lending. The underwriter must maintain a current understanding of the bank's underwriting guidelines, regulatory requirements, and compliance issues to ensure that all lending practices adhere to federal and state laws. The position requires a proactive approach to managing past due loans and coordinating renewals, as well as providing exceptional sales support to the sales team. The underwriter may also be involved in training and supporting colleagues in credit fundamentals and underwriting techniques, contributing to the overall development of the bank's lending capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Underwrite commercial business, real estate, agriculture, and SBA 504 loan requests.
• Analyze commercial loan applications and renewals to determine creditworthiness.
• Assist sales staff to maximize cross sales efforts during loan processing.
• Prepare loans for legal documentation and monitor the closing process.
• Follow up on timely renewals, reporting requirements, compliance, and delinquencies.
• Provide prompt turnaround time on loan requests and confer with Relationship Managers to determine client needs.
• Request additional information needed to complete loan processing and attend client meetings as necessary.
• Approve or decline commercial loan requests within assigned limits and recommend credit approval requirements.
• Coordinate the credit approval process and evaluate repayment capabilities to mitigate risk.
• Analyze key factors such as industry trends, management, and economic conditions.
• Provide assistance and exceptional sales support to sales staff regarding commercial loans.
• Coordinate with appraisal departments and escrow companies for secured loan products.
• Order business and personal credit reports on business principals.
• Maintain a log of maturing lines and coordinate the renewal process.
• Monitor past due loans and recommend actions to sales staff or contact customers directly as appropriate.
• Assist Relationship Managers in preparing Interim Credit Reports and Real Estate Update Memos.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Undergraduate degree in Finance, Business Administration, Accounting, or related work experience preferred.
• Three years' experience in a small business/commercial lending environment.
• Established knowledge of financial accounting theory and logic, loan structuring, and commercial products and services.
• Proven ability to interpret and discuss analytical data and make credit recommendations to Senior Management or Risk Management.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Proficient in personal computers and Windows-driven programs, especially Microsoft Office applications (Word and Excel).
• Ability to complete a high volume of work efficiently and accurately.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Five years of proven experience in a small business/commercial lending environment (for Commercial Underwriter II).
• Substantial experience in small business/commercial lending and credit analysis.
• Thorough understanding of commercial financial statements and ability to communicate with commercial business owners.
• Experience in loan recommendations and concise loan write-ups.
• Experience in statistical portfolio management.

Benefits

• Competitive total compensation package based on pay scale and qualifications.
• Incentive opportunities based on performance.
• Comprehensive health insurance options.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities and training programs.