Job Description

First Merchants Bank is seeking a First Lien Loan Originator to join our team! This position will be responsible for establishing relationships with potential borrowers through working with company-provided leads, and in some cases self-generated leads. This role will facilitate the relationship between the bank and borrower throughout the lifecycle of the mortgage process. It will ensure all compliance guidelines are strictly adhered to. The First Lien Loan Originator will act in accordance with the corporate ethics policy and ensure all business is conducted with the utmost integrity.

As part of this role you will:

• Consistently take scheduled calls with consumers to meet branch weekly call-volume expectations and production goals.
• Attend and contribute to weekly pipeline meetings & sales team meetings.
• Educate prospects about the functionality of the First Lien HELOC product, educate on the Velocity Banking strategy, and determine whether the prospect will be a good fit for the loan product using the branch’s processes & procedures.
• Interview loan applicants, collect and review financial and related information, determine the general creditworthiness of the prospect and the specific merits of the loan request for purchase, refinance and/or construction loan on residential real estate property.
• Establish and negotiate the terms under which credit will be extended, including the costs, repayment method, collateral requirements, and other relevant information.
• Provide materials for the presentation of loans as necessary.
• Assure the appropriate reports are completed accurately and filed in a timely manner.
• Take responsibility for the primary communication with the borrower, correctly build out the loan file in the system, and determine the required initial documentation from borrower aligned with the loan file. Communicate this documentation to the borrower and LOAs using the established
  processes & procedures.
• Proactively communicate with borrowers throughout the lifecycle of the mortgage process.
• Quickly and proactively analyze complex files and resolve challenges therein, when received from the LOAs and/or Processors
• Resolve conflict or challenging situations with borrowers when needed.
• Stay abreast of the loan status throughout the complete loan cycle.
• Work closely with the LOA and processor to ensure customer satisfaction through the lifecycle of the loan.
• Quickly communicate denials to loan applicants when necessary.
• Inform clients of the bank’s underwriting guidelines and applicable government regulations.
• Manage personal pipeline to ensure service standards, financial goals and objectives are met for individual performance as it relates to overall branch goals.
• Keep up with educational requirements and maintain a working knowledge of laws regulations, programs and products.
• Comply will all applicable federal and state compliance guidelines relative to the position.
• Proactively maintain proper records and loan statuses within the systems and trackers used by the branch.
• Carry out such other duties as may be assigned or requested.

To be successful in this position, we require the following:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent related experience in outside mortgage sales and origination, including established contacts/relationships within the designated market.
• Experience and proven success in proactively soliciting new mortgage business.
• One year of experience (3+ years preferred) in collecting and analyzing borrower income and negotiating skills.
• Thorough knowledge of all mortgage products and programs.
• Self-motivated with good organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in standardized software applications, including Microsoft Office Suite. Open Close experience preferred.
• NMLS License required.

First Merchants offers the following:

• Base Pay PLUS Bonuses
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• 401k
• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Vacation/Sick Time
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Additional Benefits

A little about us:

First Merchants is guided by a genuine philosophy of being a meaningful place to work and having a prosperous impact across all walks of life throughout the communities we serve, including consumers, businesses and other organizations. Our Vision, Mission and Team statement reflect and reinforce that authentic service philosophy.

Our Vision is:

To enhance the financial wellness of the diverse communities we serve.

Our Mission is:

To be the most responsive, knowledgeable, and high-performing financial organization for our clients, teammates, and shareholders.

Our Team:

"We are a collection of dynamic colleagues with diverse experiences and perspectives who share a passion for positively impacting lives. We are genuinely committed to attracting and engaging teammates of diverse backgrounds. We believe in the power of inclusion and belonging."

Apply today to begin your career with us!