Loan Officer I

THE FARMERS BANK OF WILLARDS•Salisbury, MD

1d•$53,276 - $60,250•Onsite

About The Position

The Loan Officer I is responsible for developing and maintaining customer relationships while originating, processing, and managing consumer loans and basic commercial lending opportunities. This position serves as an entry-level lending role focused on building a quality loan portfolio, providing exceptional customer service, and developing credit analysis and business development skills under the guidance of senior lending staff. The Loan Officer I will learn all aspects of the lending process while ensuring compliance with bank policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent required
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

Nice To Haves

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, or 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

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.
Work toward achieving individual lending and relationship growth goals established by management.
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.
Assist in structuring loan requests that balance customer needs with sound lending practices.
Review loan documentation for completeness and accuracy.
Coordinate with Loan Processing and other internal departments to facilitate timely closings.
Ensure loan files meet documentation and compliance standards.
Monitor assigned loan relationships for payment performance and risk.
Assist with collection efforts and delinquency management when needed.
Perform construction inspections when assigned.
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.