Small Business Administration (SBA) Operations Associate

Description

General Job Summary

The Small Business Administration (SBA) 7(a) Operations Associate plays a key role in supporting the community bank’s mission of providing accessible financing to local small businesses. This position assists lenders with evaluating SBA 7(a) loan requests, ensures loan files are complete, compliant, and processed efficiently in accordance with SBA Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), bank policies, and regulatory requirements, and supporting borrowers throughout the loan process. The role requires strong attention to detail, and the ability to work closely with small teams in a relationship-driven environment.

Summary of Essential Job Functions

• Assist SBA Loan Officers with the intake, documentation, and processing of SBA 7(a) loan applications.
• Collect, review, and organize borrower financial information, including tax returns, financial statements, credit reports, and supporting documentation.
• Prepare loan files for underwriting, approval, and closing, ensuring completeness and accuracy.
• Track loan status and follow up with borrowers, loan officers, underwriters, and third-party vendors to obtain outstanding items.
• Ensure loan documentation complies with SBA SOP requirements, bank policy, and regulatory standards.
• Assist with SBA authorization, closing checklists, and post-closing documentation.
• Support loan closings by coordinating with closing agents, attorneys, and title companies as needed.
• Maintain accurate and well-organized loan files for audits, reviews, and servicing.
• Provide exceptional customer service to borrowers by answering questions and communicating loan status updates.
• Assist with loan servicing tasks, including modifications, renewals, and ongoing compliance reporting as assigned. 

Other Job Functions

• Deliver personalized service in line with community bank values, helping small business customers understand documentation and process requirements.
• Support lenders in maintaining strong relationships with existing clients and community partners.
• Assist with periodic portfolio reviews and gathering updated financial information from local borrowers.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Education, Training and Work Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or related field preferred
• 1–3 years of experience in commercial lending, SBA lending, or banking operations preferred
• Experience with SBA 7(a) loans strongly preferred (may be waived for strong entry-level candidates)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Working knowledge of SBA 7(a) loan programs and SBA SOPs preferred
• Strong understanding of loan documentation, credit principles, and financial statements
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple loan files simultaneously
• Strong organizational, time management, and follow-up skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and loan origination systems
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment

Working Environment

• Community-focused banking environment with close collaboration across departments.
• Hybrid/remote work.
• Regular interaction with local small business owners, lenders, and SBA personnel.

Physical Requirements

• Able to lift up to 20 pounds 
• Extended periods of sitting (at computer desk)
• Complete repetitive tasks (including operation of computer mouse/keyboard)

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

**University Bank is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer**