Consumer Lending Underwriter II

Overview 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 Primary responsibilities include underwriting and granting credit decisions for consumer loan applications originated through Retail banking centers and the Internet across multiple states, markets and regions. This position will have direct responsibility to underwrite secured and unsecured Retail Lending products (home equity lines of credit, home equity term loans) across multiple states. 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. Support process improvement and business objectives. Provide superior customer service while also partnering and performing for both internal and external customers (Retail Banking Center Managers, Vendors, other internal departments, etc.). Accept additional projects as identified. Hold a minimum 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 decisions. Review supporting documents (verification of income, tax returns, personal financial statements, trusts, and additional documentation). Underwrite within the stated Retail Lending Guidelines and applicable regulations (flood determination, property appraisals, property reports, title searches, etc.). Verify completeness and accuracy of credit applications. Formulate and communicate credit decisions to Retail Banking Centers for all Consumer Loan applications (approve, decline, or counter‑offer) 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 recommend decisions on applications over the assigned authority to Supervisor/Manager. Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Needed to Perform Essential Functions of the Job 2–3 years equivalent business experience required. Minimum of 2 years of consumer lending, banking, or financial services experience. Ability to interact with all levels of management and external customers. Strong attention to detail and persistence in follow‑up. Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills. Ability to manage multiple tasks and work independently in a team environment. Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs such as Word and Excel. Preferred Knowledge and Skills Experience with consumer lending guidelines and regulations. Understanding of flood determination and property appraisal processes. 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 $52,000 – $67,000 annually. Benefits We have relevant, thoughtful benefits and programs that support every aspect of our associates' holistic wellbeing. Please review our Benefits Guide. All roles are incentive eligible with the exception of Co‑Op, Intern, or Student positions. We are an E‑Verify Employer. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr First Financial Bank