Mortgage Loan Closer

Description

ABOUT US:

Stillman Bank is a local, community bank founded in 1882. Started in Stillman Valley, IL, we have grown to 6 locations throughout Ogle and Winnebago counties. Our organization is owned by shareholders and shareholder families, some of which span back 3 generations. Our Mission is to provide comprehensive financial solutions that support the well-being of our customers and strengthen the communities we serve.

 ABOUT THE ROLE: 

The Mortgage Loan Closer is responsible for the accurate and timely preparation, review, and execution of mortgage loan closing documents across a range of loan programs, including Conventional, USDA, Portfolio (first and second mortgages), and New Construction. This role requires extensive knowledge of mortgage loan products, loan documentation, TRID timing regulations, loan funding requirements, escrow and title practices, and applicable regulatory compliance laws governing mortgage lending transactions. The Closer plays a critical role in ensuring loans are closed accurately, on time, and in full compliance with investor, regulatory, and internal service level requirements. 

You will: 

1. Prepare closing instructions, create closing documents, balance loans, and finalize Closing Disclosures for mortgage programs including Conventional, USDA, Portfolio first and second mortgages, and New Construction.
2. Review and verify that all required aspects of the loan process have been completed and satisfied prior to authorizing and releasing funds for wire.
3. Review loan data in the loan origination system (LOS) for accuracy and input information into the applicable system(s) of record.
4. Analyze and evaluate loan information relative to underwriting guidelines to confirm readiness for closing.
5. Verify funding amounts, issue funding authorizations and wire instructions, and reconcile amounts to applicable general ledger accounts.
6. Ensure accuracy of loan application data by identifying and resolving inconsistencies prior to generating compliant closing documents, funding loans, and supporting resolution of deficiencies related to the sale of first lien mortgage originations.
7. Reconcile system-generated alerts by gathering and validating relevant supporting documentation.
8. Communicate timelines and expectations clearly to manage and maintain departmental service level agreements 
9. Monitor the loan closing workflow to ensure deadlines are met as required by the loan application, purchase agreement, and general mortgage department SLAs.
10. Meet established service level targets for each loan application and originating team member, from receipt through the next stage of the workflow.
11. Provide loan officers, borrowers, and operations team members with timely, proactive status updates.
12. Communicate and coordinate effectively with loan officers, borrowers, operations staff, title companies, realtors, builders, and other internal and external stakeholders.
13. Establish, maintain, and update files, databases, records, and other documentation needed for recurring internal reporting.
14. Identify and recommend procedural improvements to increase closing department efficiency and accuracy.

This is an on-site position working 40 hours per week, working Monday - Friday. 

The Work is done in a typical office environment with moderate noise levels and temperatures. Requires the ability to operate all types of typical electronic office equipment such as computers, copiers, fax machines and scanners. Primarily a sedentary position, but requires occasional standing, walking, lifting, carrying, bending, kneeling, stretching, stooping and manual dexterity using hands and fingers (for computer keyboard operation). Requires ability for extensive reading and viewing of paper documents and computer screens.

Requirements

 High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or related field preferred. 

 Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

• Minimum of 2–4 years of experience in mortgage loan closing, funding, or a related mortgage operations role.
• Working knowledge of Conventional, USDA, Portfolio, and New Construction loan products.
• Strong understanding of TRID timing requirements, closing disclosure regulations, and mortgage compliance standards.
• Familiarity with escrow and title practices as they relate to residential mortgage closings.
• Experience with loan origination systems (LOS)
• Strong analytical skills with high attention to detail and accuracy. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple stakeholders and deadlines simultaneously.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while managing competing priorities.

  Core Competencies 

• Regulatory & Compliance knowledge - Applies TRID, RESPA, and investor guidelines accurately and consistently.
• Attention to Detail - Identifies and resolves data and document discrepancies before they impact closing.
• Communication - Keeps internal and external stakeholders informed with clear, timely updates.
• Time Management - Balances multiple loan files against SLA and closing deadlines. 
• Process Improvement - Proactively identifies opportunities to streamline the closing workflow.

ABOUT COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: 

We believe our employees are our greatest asset and deserve competitive pay and benefits. We regularly review our compensation and align our ranges with market data for our geography, industry, and institution size. 

• This is an hourly, non-exempt position with an expected pay range of $19.00 - $26.00. This is a best estimate of the pay range, but the hourly rate may be higher for candidates with direct experience in mortgage loan closing.
• Paid time off is available up front, including paid vacation time, paid flex (personal) time, paid volunteer time off, and 11 paid holidays.
• We partner with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois to offer 2 health plans, dental insurance, and vision insurance.
• The bank pays for short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance on your behalf. You can purchase additional life insurance for yourself, a spouse, or dependents at a group rate.
• Discretionary 401k match and profit-sharing contributions are made on your behalf once you have met the eligibility requirements.

GENERAL NOTICE:

This position description describes the general nature and level of work performed by the employee assigned to this position and should not be interpreted as all inclusive. It does not state or imply that these are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to the position. The employee may be required to perform other job-related duties. All requirements are subject to change and to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.  

• This position description does not constitute an employment agreement between the Bank and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the Bank and requirements of the position change.