Loan Operations Project Specialist

Loan Operations Project Specialist

At OceanFirst Bank, each one of our employees plays an important role in delivering value to our customers and executing daily tasks in accordance with our core values. We recognize that our employees are essential to our success, making OceanFirst a great place to work and do business. Great benefits include: on-site fitness facility at Red Bank and Toms River headquarter offices, employee perks & discount programs, tuition assistance, incentive compensation program, professional development opportunities, and more! Apply today to make an impact in the local community!

About Your Role

The Loan Operations Project Specialist plays a vital role in supporting and driving operational efficiency within the loan operations department. In addition to leading various departmental initiatives, this position is responsible for managing projects related to mergers and acquisitions, ensuring seamless integration and transition of loan operations throughout the process. The Specialist serves as a flexible resource within the Loan Operations department rotating across functions and supporting various teams as operational needs require.

What You Will Do List

• Manage and implement loan operations projects from initiation to completion, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and timelines.
• Communicate project status and provide comprehensive monthly reports to Senior management, covering projects in process, upcoming initiatives and completed activities.
• Lead and support projects related to mergers and acquisitions, including planning, coordination, integration, and post-merger transition of loan operations functions.
• Serve as a floater within the Loan Operations department, providing support across various teams and functions as needed to ensure operational continuity and address changing business demands.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams--including Commercial Credit, IT, Accounting, Compliance, and Strategic Integration teams--to ensure smooth project delivery and integration.
• Analyze current loan operations processes and identify opportunities for improvement, automation, and risk mitigation.
• Document project requirements, workflows, and procedures; prepare detailed project plans and status reports for management.
• Monitor project progress, resolve issues, and escalate risks or barriers as necessary to ensure timely completion.
• Support change management efforts, including staff training and communication related to new systems or process changes.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies throughout project lifecycles, including those associated with mergers and acquisitions.
• Assist in the testing, implementation, and evaluation of new technologies and systems for loan operations.
• Gather and analyze data to measure project outcomes, report findings, and recommend further improvements.

What We Expect Of You

The ideal candidate possesses strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills and thrives in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Strong understanding of loan products, processing workflows, and regulatory requirements. Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and loan management software; experience with project management tools preferred. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written. Ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams, and to adapt quickly as a floater in diverse operational roles. High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy and compliance.

Your Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in business administration, finance, or a related field (or equivalent experience). Three or more years of experience in loan operations, project management, or a similar role within the banking or financial services industry. Proven project management skills and/or Project Management certification (such as PMP or Lean Six Sigma) are required. Experience managing projects related to mergers and acquisitions within financial services is highly desirable.

Internal And External Contacts

Frequent internal contact with Operations, Information Technology, Vendor Management and Accounting teams. Periodic contact and coordination with other departments and divisions as required. External contact with service providers and with entities we provide services.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

Office environment. Ability to operate a computer. Ability to communicate in order to exchange simple to complex information with individuals and groups. Ability to travel throughout Bank footprint.