Support Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Pay Range: $18.05USD to $21.66USD
SUMMARY
The Ag Lending Support Associate II executes a variety of essential tasks, such as fielding and responding to customer inquiries, disbursing loan proceeds, securing necessary collateral and loan information, and preparing loan documents. This associate is also responsible for completing loan quality control duties, assisting in the training and development of entry-level Support Associates, and various special projects.
The ideal candidate for this position should be detail-oriented, organized, and possess strong analytical skills. With demonstrated proficiency in loan processing and financial documentation, this associate must also be able to manage multiple tasks efficiently. Strong communication skills are essential, as the role requires frequent interaction with customers and team members.
By ensuring the smooth servicing, processing, and disbursement of agricultural loans, the Agricultural Loan Support Associate II significantly contributes to the company's financial operations. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality control help maintain the integrity of the loan portfolio, ultimately supporting the company's growth and success.
All employees are expected to protect the information and assets of the organization through heightened awareness of information security, cybersecurity, and risk management best practices, as well as complying with all applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Provide exceptional service and assist customers and bank personnel with inquiries related to collateral or other aspects of agricultural loans.
• Assist in the onboarding and training of entry-level Support Associates.
• Develop knowledge of various loan processing and payment applications, assuming responsibility for the continued administration of assigned programs and special projects.
• Collaborate with the Ag Lending Team to close approved loans, ensuring all documents comply with relevant regulations.
• Support the team by ordering and collecting necessary third-party reports for loan closings, streamlining the closing process and reducing associated delays.
• Receive and audit executed closing documents for accuracy, ensuring that all loan agreements are legally binding and error-free.
• Prepare loan boarding input documents for servicing, facilitating smooth loan management and servicing.
• Ensure proper documentation and record-keeping in the transmission of completed and original files to Credit Administration.
• Monitor expiration dates of loan-related documents and insurance coverage within loan files, preventing lapses that could affect loan security.
• Complete post-close quality control requirements, ensuring all loan processes meet the bank's standards.
• Provide documentation and coordinate UCC filings as needed.
• Maintain accurate loan file information in Kadince, supporting efficient loan tracking and management.
• Handle modifications and extensions of existing maturing agricultural loans and lines of credit.
• Collaborate with departmental supervisor to set personal development goals, monthly targets, and ensure timely loan closings and quality control.
• Ensure compliance with all bank policies, procedures, and applicable state and federal banking regulations, upholding the bank's integrity and operational standards.
• Assume responsibility for special projects and tasks as assigned.

EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS

• Associate's degree in Finance, Business Administration, a related field, or a commensurate combination of education and experience required.
• A minimum of three years of related experience required.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Proficient understanding of loan processing and financial documentation, with knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and best practices, and the ability to train others on various job duties.
• Working knowledge of various loan processing and payment application programs, such as NuPoint, Synergy, and Center Doc.
• Exceptional attention to detail with the ability to remain organized and produce accurate, efficient work in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, with internal and external customers at all levels.
• Ability to complete standard calculations and apply basic mathematical concepts in practical situations.
• Ability to interpret various ratios and relationships inherent in common or specialized financial and data-driven reports.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple tasks, prioritize work, and meet deadlines.
• A positive and proactive approach to work, demonstrating enthusiasm, adaptability, and the ability to maintain composure and professionalism in stressful or adverse conditions.
• Strong critical-thinking skills and the ability to analyze potential project outcomes with the adaptability to redirect attention as needed to meet targets and deadlines.
• Proficient computer literacy, including comfort with Microsoft systems and Office Suite.
• Intermediate typing skills to meet the needs of this position.
• Current driver's license and reliable transportation with appropriate insurance coverage; additionally, the ability to drive occasionally in the course of performing assigned duties and responsibilities.
• The ability to work with minimal or no supervision.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Familiarity with State Link, Farmer Mac/Raymond James, and/or FSA programs preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands or fingers; handle or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.
NOTE
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.
All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.
Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others.
The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.
The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug-free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations and other laws/regulations as applicable.
Benefits: We are dedicated to creating a workplace where all team members feel valued and empowered. Our employee benefits promote well-being and professional growth, including insurance options, retirement plans, and career development opportunities included approved company paid training. Benefits include paid time off, medical, dental, vision and life insurance, 401(k) plan, tuition assistance, and more.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.