Real Estate Lending Mortgage Loan Originator Assistant

Tower is offering a $1000 SIGNING/RETAINING BONUS EFFECTIVE 01/20/2025

Note:  All full-time positions include the option of $0 out-of-pocket premium cost for Employee Only PPO AND exceptionally low premiums for all other PPO coverage levels

Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am-5:00pm.  

Hiring Range:  $24.82/hr to $37.22/hr

The Real Estate Lending First Mortgage Loan Originator Assistant (MLOA) plays a critical role within the Real Estate Lending team, working closely with First Mortgage Loan Originators to ensure an efficient, accurate, and member-focused mortgage lending experience. This position is responsible for supporting end-to-end loan process by coordinating pre-processing activities, reviewing loan applications for completeness and accuracy, and proactively gathering and verifying required documentation from members.

The MLOA acts as a liaison between Members, First Mortgage Loan Originators, Loan Processors, the Disclosure Desk, other internal departments and external partners, ensuring clear and timely communications throughout the mortgage process. This role assists with managing member inquiries, making outbound calls to facilitate document collection, and ensure that loans remain on track for timely processing, underwriting and closing. The MLOA is also responsible for obtaining all necessary condominium documentation required for FNMA Condo Project approval when applicable, working closely with applicable parties to ensure timely submission and approval in accordance with underwriting and FNMA guidelines.

Additionally, the MLOA ensures adherence to underwriting guidelines, internal policies, and regulatory compliance requirements. A strong understanding of first mortgage products, loan origination systems, and compliance standards is essential, as the MLOA directly contributes to enhancing operational efficiency, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering a superior member experience. By alleviating administrative and follow-up tasks from the Mortgage Loan Originators, the MLOA enables them to focus more effectively on loan origination and member relationship development, ultimately supporting the team’s overall production goals.

Proactively identifies, analyzes, and resolves issues that arise during the processing, underwriting, and closing stages of first mortgage loans by working collaboratively with internal teams and stakeholders to implement timely and effective solutions that minimize delays and ensure a smooth loan experience for members.

Supports the resolution of escalated member service issues by applying sound professional judgment, addressing concerns with empathy and efficiency, and escalating to management or appropriate departments when necessary to ensure prompt and satisfactory outcomes.

Performs detailed reviews of first mortgage loan applications to ensure data integrity and completeness, verifies the accuracy of submitted documentation, and conducts preliminary income analysis and debt-to-income (DTI) ratio calculations in alignment with underwriting guidelines.

Initiates, maintains, and documents consistent communication with members and First Mortgage Loan Originators throughout all stages of the loan process, ensuring all parties are well-informed of the loan status, next steps, and any required actions to promote transparency and a smooth lending experience.

Prepares and distributes required disclosures and membership applications in accordance with regulatory and internal guidelines, while providing clear, accurate responses to member inquiries regarding disclosure documents and first mortgage loan products to ensure understanding and compliance.

Responds promptly and professionally to incoming member calls and inquiries related to loan status, documentation requirements, and general mortgage information, ensuring members receive timely, accurate updates and a positive service experience throughout the loan process.

Collaborates effectively with Real Estate Lending team members, as well as other TFCU departments and staff, to ensure seamless coordination, information sharing, and mutual support that contribute to efficient loan processing and exceptional member service.

Maintains current knowledge of TFCU’s first mortgage loan products, market offerings, internal underwriting guidelines, and applicable investor requirements—including FNMA and other secondary market guidelines—to ensure accurate loan processing, informed member communication, and full compliance with regulatory and investor standards.

Reviews and analyzes credit reports thoroughly to ensure compliance with underwriting guidelines, promptly identifying any discrepancies or red flags, and coordinating with relevant parties to resolve issues and mitigate risk.

Coordinates the collection, verification, and submission of all necessary condominium documentation required for condo project approval, working closely with members, condo associations, and underwriting teams to ensure timely compliance with investor and regulatory guidelines.

Performs additional duties and special projects as assigned, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive approach to support the Real Estate Lending team and contribute to overall departmental success.

Associates degree in a related field plus three years of relevant experience required

2- 3 years of experience in the real estate lending processing, loan origination, or a closely related area preferred

Or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Analytical decision-making ability with attention to detail.

Ability to become proficient in the origination and operations procedures of the Real Estate Lending Department.

Ability to learn and work in a fast-paced environment.

Ability to multi-task and prioritize work as required.

Ability to effectively work with mathematical concepts with a high degree of accuracy.

Ability to interpret, understand and apply Tower FCU Real Estate Lending Guidelines and FNMA/FHLMC/Investor Guidelines.

Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form.

Ability to work and communicate effectively with Tower FCU members, real estate agents, title companies and other members of the Real Estate Lending team.

Ability to work independently and to identify/solve problems and to seek guidance when necessary and to resolve them in an expeditious manner.

PC Proficient to include: Word, Excel, Outlook, internet, e-mail and mortgage loan origination software

Ability to verbally convey work process issues to other members of the Real Estate Lending Department.

Ability to adapt to changes within internal, market or regulatory environments.

Ability to effectively organize loan files and documents.

Ability to exercise prudent judgment in decision-making and protection of member confidential information.

Ability to arrive at work routinely and promptly.

Ability to work within stringent time constraints and in a high-pressure environment.

Ability to receive constructive feedback from co-workers and management.

Ability to work in a team environment and demonstrate the ability to help others.

Has knowledge of and adheres to credit union policies and procedures and all regulations related to the bank Secrecy Act, the USA Patriot Act and OFAC.

Ability to work the hours needed which may extend beyond the defined work schedule when operating conditions dictate.

Ability to lift up to 20lbs. with or without assistance, in compliance with ADA.