Loan Originator, Remote

Job Description

Job Title: Mortgage Loan Originator
Location: Chicago, IL (Fully Remote with Optional In-Office Access if Local Branch Available)
Compensation: Commission-Based (Basis Points Vary by Location and Cost of Living)
Travel: 80% regional travel required

Position Overview
Wheeler Staffing Partners is seeking an experienced Mortgage Loan Originator on behalf of a growing mortgage lending organization. This is a full-time, commission-based opportunity designed for a sales-driven professional who thrives on relationship building and generating referral-based loan volume.


The primary responsibility of this role is to originate residential mortgage loans by establishing and maintaining referral relationships throughout the Chicago region. This position is fully remote, with optional access to a local branch office if available. Candidates must be comfortable traveling extensively within the immediate region to develop and maintain business partnerships.

Key Responsibilities Business Development & Referral Generation

• Generate new mortgage loan volume through external sales efforts.
• Build and maintain strong referral relationships with real estate agents, brokers, title and escrow officers, financial advisors, CPAs, and other industry professionals.
• Attend closings, open houses, seminars, and networking events to drive lead generation.
• Conduct educational sessions and marketing activities to increase brand visibility and referral flow.
• Maintain consistent communication with referral partners to ensure ongoing business development.

Loan Origination & Borrower Consultation

• Interview prospective borrowers and complete mortgage loan applications.
• Analyze borrower income, assets, debt, and credit to pre-qualify applicants.
• Educate borrowers on available loan products (Conventional, FHA, VA, etc.) and explain differences in rates, terms, closing costs, and monthly payments.
• Counsel borrowers through the home buying and financing process.
• Collect required documentation including tax returns, bank statements, and supporting financial records.
• Provide required disclosures including Truth in Lending (TILA), Loan Estimates, and other regulatory documentation.

Loan Processing & Closing Coordination

• Maintain ongoing communication with borrowers, referral partners, and internal teams from application through closing.
• Assist borrowers with resolving credit challenges when applicable.
• Order required legal and title documents.
• Review closing disclosures and HUD statements prior to closing.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local lending regulations.

Required Qualifications

• Active Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) license in the applicable state (Illinois required; additional states preferred).
• Minimum 1-2 years of mortgage origination experience.
• Proven success generating self-sourced loan volume through referral relationships.
• Strong knowledge of mortgage underwriting guidelines and pricing.
• Working knowledge of FNMA (Fannie Mae), FHLMC (Freddie Mac), FHA, VA, private investors, and local bond programs.
• Familiarity with federal and state mortgage regulations including TILA, RESPA, and related compliance standards.
• Ability to analyze complex financial information including income calculations and credit reports.
• Strong communication, sales, and relationship-building skills.
• Self-motivated, goal-oriented, and comfortable working in a commission-driven environment.
• Ability to travel 80% within the Chicago regional market.

Compensation & Benefits

• Commission-based compensation (basis points vary by region and cost of living)
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Voluntary benefits options
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Remote flexibility with optional office access (if local branch available)
• Established operational support structure

Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate is a highly motivated, sales-oriented professional who excels in building long-term referral partnerships. You are comfortable working independently, managing your pipeline, and driving loan volume through relationship-based selling. You understand mortgage guidelines, compliance requirements, and underwriting standards, and you are confident guiding borrowers from application through closing.

Why Work with Wheeler Staffing Partners?
At Wheeler Staffing Partners, we do more than connect professionals with opportunities - we build long-term career partnerships. Our recruiting team provides personalized guidance throughout the hiring process, including resume optimization, interview preparation, offer negotiation, and onboarding support. We are committed to aligning your experience and goals with organizations where you can thrive. When you work with Wheeler Staffing Partners, you gain a trusted advocate dedicated to your professional success.

Meet Your Recruiter

Brianna Nava