Credit Analyst / Ag Lender Trainee

Job Description

Job Description

Join a Community-Focused Bank Where Your Expertise Makes a Difference

At First Independent Bank, we're more than a place to work. We're a team that values relationships, collaboration, and helping our customers and communities thrive. As a Credit Analyst / Ag Lender Trainee, you'll play a key role in supporting sound lending decisions while partnering with lenders and customers.

If you enjoy analyzing financial information, solving problems, building trusted relationships, and being part of a team that genuinely cares about its customers and each other, we'd love to hear from you.

Primary Purpose

The Credit Analyst / Ag Lender Trainee is responsible for analyzing and evaluating credit information, preparing credit presentations in collaboration with loan officers for submission to loan committees, completing annual reviews on designated loans through the collection and analysis of customer financial information, and work with experienced lenders during client interviews and community events.

This position also supports our commitment to providing prompt, accurate, and exceptional customer service while promoting the products and services of First Independent Bank.

What You'll Do

Credit Analysis & Ag Lending

• Enter financial statements and related information into financial analysis software and maintain a strong working knowledge of FINPACK, Suntell, and Microsoft Excel.
• Analyze financial information related to new and renewal Agricultural and Commercial loan requests.
• Assist with risk assessment for Agricultural and Commercial loan requests by conducting thorough credit analysis in accordance with bank standards and industry guidelines.
• Regularly research and analyze macroeconomic and sector-specific trends in the Agricultural and Commercial industries to accurately evaluate borrower repayment capacity and inform credit underwriting decisions.
• Prepare credit approval analysis, including evaluation of credit suitability within bank policy guidelines.
• Prepare and complete independent internal evaluations for Ag Real Estate, Ag Machinery, Commercial Real Estate, and Consumer Real Estate in accordance with bank policy and regulatory guidelines.
• Provide ongoing credit management support through quarterly and annual reviews, evaluating customer financial performance and overall financial condition.
• Present findings and recommendations regarding a customer's creditworthiness.
• Participate in ongoing and annual reviews of loans and commitments to: 
  • Assign objective credit grades
  • Evaluate the adequacy of loan documentation
  • Identify existing or potential credit concerns
  • Ensure compliance with bank policies
  • Prepare written review reports
• Accompany experienced lenders on farm visits and client interviews to learn how to assess ongoing operations, understand producers needs, and build trusted banking relationships.
• Help monitor loan repayment activities and track renewing lines of credit to identify potential credit deterioration or early warning signs within the assigned portfolio.

Teamwork & Customer Service

• Collaborate with lending and credit teams to support quality credit decisions and exceptional customer experiences.
• Build positive working relationships with colleagues and customers through professionalism, responsiveness, and attention to detail.
• Help promote the bank's products and services by understanding customer needs and delivering personalized support.

What We're Looking For

Education & Experience

• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in a credit analyst, portfolio management, or similar banking position.
• Associate's Degree (AA) or Bachelor's Degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.
• Basic understanding of tax returns required; strong knowledge and interpretation of tax returns preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Skills & Qualifications

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Microsoft Windows applications.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.

Why First Independent Bank?

We believe that great banking starts with great people. That's why we invest in our employees by offering meaningful work, supportive leadership, opportunities for growth, and a culture built on respect, integrity, and teamwork.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Bank-Paid Basic Life, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Voluntary Life & AD&D Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• 401(k) with Employer Match
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Equal Employment Opportunity

First Independent Bank is an EEO/AA employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal law. Member FDIC.