Assistant Loan Officer, Affordable Housing

Merchants Bank of Indiana•Carmel, IN

12h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Assistant Loan Officer, Affordable Housing, specializing in Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) lending, supports the growth of responsible homeownership by originating residential mortgage loans within targeted communities. This role focuses on business development, sales performance, community engagement, and delivering exceptional customer service while ensuring regulatory compliance and accurate documentation throughout the loan process. A key component of this role is hands-on learning through mentorship, working closely with an experienced Affordable Loan Originator to develop product knowledge, sales skills, and community engagement expertise. After one year, our Assistant Loan Officer, Affordable Housing will be able to do the following confidently and independently...

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, or related field preferred (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
1–2 years of experience in mortgage lending, sales, or financial services preferred
Knowledge of CRA lending, affordable housing programs, or community development is a plus
Strong interpersonal, communication, and sales skills
Ability to build relationships within diverse communities
Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management abilities
Proficiency in mortgage loan systems and Microsoft Office (Encompass or similar LOS preferred)
Active NMLS license or ability to obtain required

Responsibilities

Participate in a structured mentorship program with a senior Affordable Loan Originator
Shadow experienced originators during client meetings, community events, and sales presentations
Receive ongoing coaching in CRA lending strategies, community outreach, and consultative sales techniques
Gradually assume increased responsibility in loan origination as skills and knowledge develop
Engage in continuous learning related to affordable housing programs, CRA compliance, and mortgage products
Accurately collect, review, and submit borrower documentation in accordance with underwriting guidelines
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and company policies, including CRA, Fair Lending, and regulatory requirements
Maintain complete and accurate loan files within internal systems
Assist in resolving documentation issues and clearing conditions in a timely manner
Coordinate with Loan Originator, Underwriting, Processing, and Closing to ensure exceptional customer experience.
Provide responsive, high-quality customer service throughout the loan lifecycle
Address client questions and concerns promptly and professionally
Coordinate closely with processing, underwriting, and closing teams to ensure a smooth transaction
Maintain transparency and keep clients informed on loan status and next step
Monitor application status and follow up with clients as needed.
Serve as a trusted advisor by guiding clients through the mortgage process from application to closing
Educate borrowers on available loan programs, including CRA, first-time homebuyer, and down payment assistance options
Build long-term relationships through consistent communication and follow-up
Ensure a personalized and positive experience
Assist clients in completing applications and signing documents
Develop and maintain relationships with community organizations, real estate professionals, builders, and local stakeholders to generate CRA-eligible loan opportunities
Identify and engage prospective borrowers within low- to moderate-income (LMI) communities
Participate in outreach events, financial literacy workshops, homebuyer workshops, and housing seminars to promote homeownership
Support market growth strategies aligned with CRA goals and company objectives
Originate residential mortgage loans by presenting appropriate loan options based on client financial needs
Maintain a consistent pipeline of active prospects and referral sources