Agriculture Credit Underwriter

AgWest Farm Credit is a member-owned financial cooperative serving farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, and related markets in seven Western states. We are part of the Farm Credit System, a long-standing provider of credit to American agriculture. We strive to support agriculture and rural communities and serve customers in 59 locations.

We are in search of a Credit Underwriter, internally named a Credit Analyst II, to join our Montana Lending and Insurance department in Billings, Montana. This full-time position reports to the VP, Credit and delivers sound credit and related services, typically supporting average to above-average loan portfolios with simple to moderately complex credits.

The base salary range for this position in Billings, Montana is:

Annual performance-based incentive target: Relocation assistance will be provided to eligible candidates who must relocate to accept this position.

Gather financial and business information from customers, prospects, and other resources through interviews and other information resources.

Analyze financial statements (including opinions and notes), tax records, in-house statements, and pro forma statements.

Assess credit and prepare analyses for small and medium-sized portfolios; submit sound credit analyses and recommendations for review.

Support customer relationships by marketing and servicing financially related products; communicate with customers, their representatives, and branch employees.

Participate in the Large Loan process as needed to deliver high-quality products within agreed time frames and risk parameters.

Conduct farm visits and collateral inspections; document observations and assess collateral condition and value.

Research agricultural industries and commodities to identify viability, trends, and opportunities for AgWest.

Establish rapport with customers and prospects; represent AgWest at relevant events and with agricultural organizations.

Classify and identify charge-off reserves, cash income accounting, and allowances on assigned loans.

Perform credit investigations (public records, credit bureau, employment and income, asset/liability verification).

Participate in loan closings to ensure complete and understood documentation with customers.

Coordinate with relationship managers to ensure effective credit administration.

assist with industry studies and customer education events.

Collaborate with customers and AgWest teams to make referrals and cross-sell products as needed.

May serve as a trainer or mentor and participate in organization-wide initiatives as requested.

Perform duties in alignment with company policies, procedures, and internal controls.

Travel Requirements

Occasional travel for all-staff or team meetings beyond standard travel for the role.

Bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, economics, finance, or equivalent, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

One to three years’ experience in an office setting; lending, accounting, finance, or related field preferred

Ability to read or learn to read financial statements, legal opinions, tax records, and other financial documents

Understanding of applicable credit laws and regulations, bankruptcy law, and collection procedures

Thorough knowledge of credit classifications and sound loan administration practices

Ability to market, sell, and negotiate terms on AgWest products, both verbally and in writing

Ability to interpret financial data and translate into a clear written narrative explaining business operations and financial position

Agricultural background

Advanced knowledge of AgWest policies, procedures, products, and services

After an initial in-office training period, this position is eligible for workplace flexibility and a one-time home office stipend.

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Basic term life and AD&D insurance (fully paid by the company)

Paid time off: 15 vacation days, 15 sick days, 12 holidays, and 3 volunteer days

Employee Assistance Program

Casual attire (Jeans are welcome at work every day)

*When you apply, we collect personal identifiers from your resume and application information to evaluate applicants for hiring opportunities and communicate with them in accordance with applicable law.

EEO and Compliance Note

Completion is optional, kept confidential, and not used in hiring decisions. Details provided will be handled per applicable law.

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