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If you are interested and qualified for this role, we invite you to apply.

A Commercial Underwriter I is responsible for assessing and evaluating the risk associated with commercial loan applications. They review financial statements, credit reports, and other relevant information to determine the borrower's creditworthiness and the potential risk to the lending institution. They analyze and interpret financial data, industry trends, and market conditions to make informed decisions on loan approvals, terms, and conditions. They also collaborate with loan officers, borrowers, and other stakeholders to gather additional information and ensure compliance with lending policies and regulations. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of commercial lending within the Food & Agricultural business line is essential for success in this role.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities

• Perform cursory financial analysis and risk assessment for the commercial credit portfolio within the Food & Agribusiness business line of the Bank.
• Review commercial loan applications and analyze credit information to make an assessment of applicant’s creditworthiness. Determine whether the proposed loan will conform to the Bank’s lending policy. Maintain on-going communication with all appropriate management on the status of transactions.
• Work directly with relationship managers and portfolio managers during the underwriting process, including discussion with clients on credit and financial statement questions.
• Spread financial statements and perform covenant testing.
• Complete accurate credit memos for presentation to the appropriate credit authorities for decision-making on new loan requests, renewals, loan modifications and periodic credit reviews. Provide commentary within the credit memo as to underwriter support of such credit request or review.
• Attend loan committees (including Senior Credit Committee) when a credit memo is being presented and be prepared to answer underwriting-related questions and/or provide feedback on request. Finalization of changes to the credit memo and verification of approval process in accordance with FFB policy.
• Attend local / regional meetings, as necessary. Including updates on industry trends specific to the Food & Agribusiness business line.

• Other Duties as assigned.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Needed to Perform Essential Functions of the Job

• Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business Administration
• Proficiency in mathematical concepts to apply to practical situations.
• Knowledge of accounting principles and techniques
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail, planning and follow-up
• Ability to work independently on multiple tasks without compromising quality
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office
• Team oriented

Preferred Knowledge and Skills

• One year of underwriting experience
• Knowledge in agricultural business line

Level of Complexity and Scope

• The role involves evaluating and underwriting primarily in the Food and Agribusiness line of business. There is a need to understand agricultural industry-specific terms and risk factors.

Degree of Independence and Decision-Making

• Works under direct supervision
• Requires making critical decisions on customer’s ability for loan repayment, collateral coverage, and compliance with credit policy.
• Decisions must balance risk management with creditworthiness of the business and the ability to make informed judgments in credit analysis.
• Involves frequent collaboration with Enterprise Credit and Line of Business partners to appropriately assess and execute risk prudent due diligence practices in accordance with credit policy.

Required Supervisory Responsibilities

• No direct supervisory responsibilities.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of deskwork.
• Frequent use of computer, keyboard, phone and office equipment.
• Occasional moving within the office or to other locations within the building.
• Occasionally lifting and carrying light objects, typically up to 10-15 pounds.
• Occasionally reaching for items on shelves or in drawers.
• Clear and effective communication in person and over the phone.
• Ability to move within an office environment.

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

Benefits

We have relevant, thoughtful benefits and programs that support every aspect of our associates' holistic wellbeing. Please review our Benefits Guide. 

Incentive Eligibility

All roles are incentive eligible with the exception of Co-Op, Intern, or Student positions.

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.

We are an E-Verify Employer.