Consumer Lending Underwriter I

We do the right things, right now. We do them in a way that is relevant to our clients. Become a part of our history as it continues to be written! If you are interested and qualified for this role, we invite you to apply. Essential Functions/Responsibilities Responsible for analyzing application information for Retail Lending. This position will have direct responsibility to underwrite secured and unsecured Retail Lending products (Home Equity lines of credit, Home Equity term loans, Unsecured Loans, and Direct Installment Loans) across multiple states. This position will support process improvement and business objectives. Provide superior customer service while also “Partnering and Performing” to both internal and external customers (Retail Banking Center Managers, Vendors, other internal departments, etc…) Support process improvement and contribute to achieving business objectives. Accept additional projects as identified. This position will have the minimum in consumer lending authority: Secured- $100,000 Unsecured/Credit Cards- $7,500 Analyze consumer credit reports of Retail Lending applications to evaluate risk and make appropriate credit decision for Retail Lending across multiple states, Markets, and geographic regions. Review documents to support credit decision (verification of income, tax returns, personal financial statement, trusts and additional supporting documentation, etc…) Reviews documents to underwrite within the stated Retail Lending Guidelines and applicable regulations (flood determination, property appraisals, property reports/title searches, and documents, etc…) Verifies completeness and accuracy of credit applications. Formulates and communicates credit decision to Retail Banking Centers for all Consumer Loan applications (either approve, decline, or counteroffer) in compliance with established underwriting guidelines, compliance, and regulatory requirements. Develop business relationships and build rapport with Retail Banking Centers and other internal departments to achieve mutual goals. Manage application pipeline to meet business objectives for Service Level Agreements in place. Provide superior service to both internal and external customers. Review credit applications and recommends decisions on applications over their assigned authority to Supervisor/Manager. Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Needed to Perform Essential Functions of the Job 2-3 yrs Equivalent business experience required Minimum of 2 years consumer lending, banking, or financial services experience Ability to interact with all levels of management and external customers Strong attention to detail and level of follow up Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills Ability to manage multiple tasks and work independently in a team environment Proficient with Microsoft Office programs such as Word and Excel Preferred Knowledge and Skills Level of Complexity and Scope Degree of Independence and Decision-Making Required Supervisory Responsibilities Physical Requirements Occasionally lifts and carries up to 50 lbs. Frequently lifts and carries up to 10 lbs. Occasionally stands and walks. Frequently sits. Compliance Statement The associate is responsible for meeting all compliance requirements imposed on First Financial Bank by State and Federal law and regulation, as well as all related First Financial Bank policies and procedures. This includes all Bank Secrecy Act, Anti-Money Laundering, OFAC and Suspicious Activity reporting requirements, as well as all other lending and deposit compliance requirements. Development and Training Pay Range $23.56- $28.37/hour Benefits We have relevant, thoughtful benefits and programs that support every aspect of our associates' holistic wellbeing. Please review our Benefits Guide. Incentive Eligibility All roles are incentive eligible with the exception of Co-Op, Intern, or Student positions. It is our policy to not discriminate against any individual in violation of federal, state, and local laws as it relates to age, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, pregnancy, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran/military service, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are an E-Verify Employer. At first financial bank, our mission is clear: to be the best bank to do business with, the best place to work, and the best financial partner for our shareholders and the communities we serve. We believe that how we work is just as important as what we achieve. That’s why we’re guided by core values that shape everything we do: Doing the right thing Teamwork Mutual respect Wellbeing Excellence Our success starts with our people. We know that when our associates are talented, engaged, and supported, they create outstanding results. If you're looking to be part of a team that values integrity, inclusion, and collaboration—and where your growth matters—you’ll find your future here.