SBA Credit Underwriter

About Bankwell:

Bankwell is a commercial bank with more than $3 billion in assets that serves the banking needs of businesses and individuals. At Bankwell, we pride ourselves on our unique ability to bring you high touch, high quality banking with the expertise and dedication of our experienced team of professionals. When it comes to business, our deep industry knowledge, flexibility and innovative treasury and financing services enable us to find the right solutions for our business and commercial clients. We’re passionate about giving back and are actively involved with many not-for-profit organizations that help shape and improve the lives of others. We’re dedicated to giving our time and talent to support the communities we serve. More about Bankwell can be found at www.mybankwell.com.

Summary of Position:

This role will be responsible for the credit analysis and underwriting function of government guaranteed loans, including SBA 7a and 504, USDA as well as conventional business loans as necessary. This position reports directly to Director of Credit and requires minimal supervision.

Responsibilities include:

• Ability to interpret financial statements, tax returns and projections.
• Perform analysis of cash flow, global cash flow, financial capacity, and collateral requirements.
• Prepare high-quality, detailed loan memos that contain an in-depth analysis and an understanding and identification of credit issues and risks.
• Prepare loan requests within established timelines in accordance with the Bank’s Loan Policy and procedures.
• Consult with the Business Development Officer and/or Management to recommend proper loan structuring that limits risk to the Bank.
• Review third-party reports, appraisals and valuations (real estate, equipment, business, etc. IRS Transcripts, and CAIVRS as required).
• Work closely with Management to support efforts to meet lending goals and objectives.
• Maintain a satisfactory level of customer service to all (internal and external customers) and maintain satisfactory level of communication with all partners.
• Adhere to all compliance requirements established by Bank, including timely completion of online compliance training modules.
• Assist all partners (closing, portfolio, operations) in the closing and booking of government guaranteed loans, if necessary.
• Assist in all projects assigned that help improve and streamline the credit delivery process.
• Ongoing training and conferences, such as NAGGL and SBA Connect.
• Maintains strong working knowledge of all applicable Bank Policies and Procedures directly or indirectly related to areas of responsibility and adheres to policy requirements.
• Any other duties and responsibilities as assigned from time to time.

Qualifications & Skills:

• College degree in accounting, economics or finance preferred.
• Minimum 10+ years SBA loan underwriting or commercial loan underwriting experience.
• Must possess strong credit and organizational skills, be able to meet deadlines, work well in pressure situations and possess advanced communication skills – listening, written and verbal.
• Working knowledge of SBA and USDA B&I policies, procedures and regulations.
• Organized, detail oriented and can complete multiple tasks effectively and in a timely manner.
• Ability to prioritize work and perform under limited supervision.
• Working knowledge of Windows, Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams and Zoom.
• Ability to work well with co-workers at all levels of the organization.
• Commercial lending experience and working in a community bank environment a plus

FLSA Status: Exempt

Competitive compensation and benefits, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Employer-paid life and disability insurance
• HSA option
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Telehealth and wellness resources
• Supplemental insurance options
• Pet insurance and legal plan benefits

Benefits become effective on the first day of the month following date of hire

This job description is a general description of essential job functions. It is not intended as an employment contract, nor is it intended to describe all duties someone in this position may perform. All employees are expected to perform tasks assigned by supervisory personnel, regardless of job titles or routine job duties.

Bankwell is committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin or ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws.

Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the terms of Americans with Disabilities Act and certain other state or local laws. Please inform Bankwell’s Human Resources representative if you need assistance completing any forms or to otherwise participate in the application process.

All employees are responsible for complying with banking regulations that apply to Bankwell. This includes, but is not limited to, adhering to the BSA and various consumer protection regulations, and complying with OFAC sanctions. Employees are required to complete compliance training and follow policies and procedures for applicable regulations based on their role. An employee’s failure to comply with banking regulations will be individually reviewed and assessed. The result of non-compliance may impact job performance ratings and may be serious enough to require termination of employment.