Associate Mortgage Loan Specialist

SECU • Flat Rock, NC

6d • Hybrid

About The Position

This is an entry-level real estate lending position focused on development and training. The Associate Mortgage Loan Specialist is responsible for acquiring the necessary knowledge and experience to guide current and prospective members through the real estate loan application process. This role involves a hybrid work schedule between the Flat Rock and Hendersonville branch locations.

Requirements

• Must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Successful completion of Consumer Lending Program courses and subsequent exam is required.
• Attend Excel and Elevate – New Employee Training (E&E).
• Real Estate Lending Program (RELP) completed within 6 months.
• Completion of the following 10 Core Modules after E&E and subsequent training sessions: Checking Accounts, Member Eligibility, Money Market Share Accounts, SECU Policies Overview, Share Accounts, Lending Overview, NCUA Coverage, Cooperative Principles, Online Services, We Are SECU!
• Completion of Additional Modules: SECU’s Member-Facing Websites, Branch Security Measures, Account Titling & Designations, Funds Transfer, Member Identification, Check Acceptance, MARGO Platform, Account and Profile Maintenance, Advances, Safe Deposit Boxes.
• Must possess the highest level of integrity and objectivity.
• Must possess excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Must be able to communicate with SECU personnel, VPs, SVPs, attorneys, members, appraisers, realtors, etc.
• Must have strong networking and relationship development skills.
• Meets compliance and regulatory standards.
• Makes lending decisions consistent with SECU loan policies.
• Has or is eligible to be registered as an active MLO with the NMLS.
• Must be organized and meticulous.
• Must be willing to engage in ongoing training and professional development.
• Must have basic computer skills with an ability to learn more complex software for processing of applications and completing loan servicing.
• Has completed all required quarterly training courses & other training assigned by management.
• Consistently demonstrates SECU’s Core Values.
• Must be able to speak and write English fluently.
• Must understand and be dedicated to the Credit Union philosophy and work ethic.
• Must adhere to the work schedule and attendance policies established by the Credit Union.
• Must complete the Credit Union’s Core Module Program within 12 months of hire date as a condition of employment.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree, or CCUE Certification, or Associate of Arts degree or Associate of Science degree via the North Carolina Community College Transfer Program (NC-CTP).
• Previous SECU and/or lending experience preferred.
• Completion of all requirements of the Associate MSO position preferred, but at a minimum must learn the following quick actionable items: Notaries, Safe deposit box entrance, Opening and closing of the branch, Front desk duties, Other dual control assistance as needed, Approving Wires and Cashier’s Checks.

Responsibilities

• Receive and assist in the completion of real estate loan applications, serving as the primary point of contact for applicants during the origination process.
• Assess, underwrite, and make recommendations for loan application decisions, considering applicant creditworthiness, ability to repay, collateral valuation, and organizational risk.
• Communicate approval or denial decisions to members clearly and professionally.
• Evaluate and verify income documentation, including personal and business tax returns, to make informed approval or denial decisions.
• Counsel potential home buyers and existing homeowners, taking complete and accurate real estate loan applications and obtaining required documentation for initial loan approval with assistance.
• Seek guidance for complex lending situations and approval authority from an MLS or above.
• Stay updated on market trends, interest rates, and changes in lending policies and regulations to provide accurate and timely information to members.
• Assist members with servicing of existing mortgage and home equity loans.
• Follow up with prequalified applicants and other leads in a timely and effective manner.
• Price and disclose loan applications by determining interest rates and fees based on borrower creditworthiness, loan amount, term, and market conditions.
• Coordinate member engagement with the Real Estate Lending Processing Center within Loan Administration.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of all real estate lending products, policies, procedures, and regulatory compliance.
• Educate members on available services and make referrals for other Credit Union products and services based on their needs.
• Ensure well-documented, easy-to-review loan application history notes within the Loan Origination System.
• Work with the Lending Contact Center to provide assistance with mortgage lending calls when needed.
• Support branch employees with all real estate related needs and ensure they have the information needed to refer potential applicants for mortgage lending opportunities.
• Work various contact and follow-up reports to cultivate member engagement throughout the home buying process.
• Assist with community engagement by meeting with realtors and other third parties, and attending community events to build and maintain mortgage loan volume.
• Handle consumer unsecured lending as assigned.
• Answer phones and perform other clerical duties as needed.
• Complete additional tasks as assigned by management.
• Participate in additional training and continuing education to enhance knowledge of mortgage originations.

Benefits

• Equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other classification protected by law.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED