SBA Business Development Officer

Job Description

Job Description

We are changing FINANCE to finance CHANGE!

At  Climate First Bank , we're redefining what banking can be. As a Florida Benefit Corporation and FDIC-insured commercial bank, we offer a full suite of personal and business services—including solar, residential, commercial, ESOP Banking, Structured Finance and SBA loans—all designed to power a better future. We're proud to be a Certified B Corporation, a member of 1% for the Planet, and part of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV), reflecting our deep commitment to sustainability, transparency, and ethical banking.

With branches in  St. Petersburg, Winter Park, Mount Dora , Downtown Orlando and a growing digital presence , we're proving that banking can be a force for good. We don't just support environmental and social causes—we're built on them.

Under our Holding Company,  Climate First Bancorp , we are also powered by OneEthos.  OneEthos operates at the intersection of fintech and traditional banking to expand access to inclusive, values-driven financial services. Regulated by the Federal Reserve Bank, it equips Community Banks, Credit Unions, CDFIs, and Green Banks with ethical lending tools—especially in climate finance and solar lending.

We're seeking  driven, mission-aligned individuals ready to make an impact. If you're passionate about sustainability, thrive in a fast-paced, results driven environment, and want to be part of something bigger, you will feel right at home.

Our team is one of  goal-setters, go-getters, problem solvers, thought leaders, and changemakers . We celebrate wins, tackle challenges head-on, and push boundaries. Fueled by purpose, we thrive where perseverance and passion turn ambitious goals into reality.

At Climate First Bank, we're investing in your future. We offer a comprehensive, people-first benefits package that supports your health, finances, and work-life balance. Please note that benefit eligibility varies by employment status and that benefits for part-time employees may differ from those listed below.

Compensation  —  In addition to the base salary, this position may be eligible for an annual bonus, incentives and equity. Actual compensation is based on industry salary ranges, internal salary structures, experience, skills and other job-related factors.

Health Coverage — 100% employer-paid for employees; employer contribution for dependents by Us

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance 
• Health Savings Account (HSA) 
• Free Telemedicine access via Teladoc

Financial Wellness & Wealth Building

• 401(k) with 6% Employer Match —No Vesting Period.
• Employee Stock Options 
• Exclusive Employee Banking Perks 
• 0% Financing for Employee Solar Loans 
• Employee Only Mortgage Product  with exclusive interest rates and terms.
• 0% Financing for Eligible Electric Vehicles (EVs) 
• Referral Incentives 

Generous Paid Time Off

• 2–4 Weeks of Vacation based on officer level plus additional tenure-based time.
• 64 Hours of Paid Sick Time  for all full-time employees.

Protection & Peace of Mind

• Company-Paid Life Insurance 
• Short- & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Voluntary Life, Accident & Critical Illness Coverage  
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)  with free counseling, legal, and financial services.

Now Hiring: SBA Business Development Officer

We're looking for a We're looking for an SBA Business Development Officer who will be responsible for generating new SBA 7(a) and 504 loan opportunities through internal and external referral sources, while structuring compliant lending solutions that support small and medium-sized business growth.

What You'll Contribute:

Business Development & Relationship Management

• Generate new SBA loan opportunities through internal partnerships and external referral networks
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, prospects, and business partners
• Partner with bank officers to cross-sell additional banking products and services

Loan Structuring & Credit Analysis

• Structure SBA loan proposals aligned to SBA 7(a), 504, and related programs
• Review financial information and determine borrower eligibility
• Conduct initial underwriting and develop credit recommendations

Credit Packaging & Documentation

• Prepare SBA-specific credit memorandums and complete supporting documentation
• Ensure all packages meet regulatory and SBA SOP requirements
• Present commitment letters upon loan approval

Loan Process Management

• Coordinate submission of loan packages to underwriting and SBA
• Partner with processors, attorneys, and clients through closing
• Follow up on outstanding documentation and ensure timely processing

Reporting, Compliance & Support

• Prepare reports for leadership and complete required compliance training
• Maintain adherence to BSA, AML, CIP, OFAC, and other regulatory requirements
• Support special projects and departmental initiatives as needed

Champion Our Mission, Protect What Matters

Adopt a commitment to environmental, social, economic, and responsible banking practices.
Stay informed on regulatory requirements and complete all required compliance training.
Support fraud prevention and ensure adherence to bank policies and procedures

What makes a stand-out candidate:

Experience & Education

• Bachelor's degree in business, finance, or related field preferred
• 3+ years of SBA lending experience
• Experience with government-guaranteed lending programs (SBA 7(a), Express, 504, USDA)
• Strong financial analysis, communication, and organizational skills
• Proven ability to collaborate across teams and manage client relationship

Entrepreneurial Self-Starter - You take ownership of your pipeline, proactively generating SBA opportunities through referral networks and market outreach. You think strategically, structure solutions within SBA guidelines, and use data and performance metrics to consistently drive results in a goal-oriented environment.

Organization & Efficiency- You effectively manage a high-volume pipeline, keeping deals organized from prospecting through closing. You prioritize tasks, maintain accurate documentation, and use systems and tools to ensure deals move forward efficiently and compliantly.

Master Communicator- You communicate clearly and confidently with clients, partners, and internal teams. You simplify complex financial concepts, guide productive conversations, and build strong relationships that lead to successful deal execution and repeat business.

Banking & Fintech Acumen - You apply strong knowledge of SBA programs and credit analysis to structure sound, compliant loan solutions. You assess financials with confidence and stay current on regulatory requirements to ensure quality and consistency across every deal.

Tech-Forward and Analytical Thinking - You leverage CRM tools, financial data, and reporting systems to manage your pipeline and evaluate opportunities. You use insights to prioritize deals, improve efficiency, and support informed decision-making.

Commitment to Being a Team Player - You collaborate closely with underwriting, credit, and closing teams to move deals forward. You communicate proactively, share knowledge, and contribute to a supportive team environment that ensures strong client outcomes.

Equal Opportunity Statement: At Climate First Bank we truly believe that our people are our strength and the diverse talents they bring to our workforce are directly linked to our success. Diversity and inclusion are at the core of our values and mission. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. In accordance with applicable law, we make reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as any mental health or physical disability needs. Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veterans E-Verify Statement: This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9