Career Opportunities

Job Description

The Universal Banker is responsible for establishing, retaining, and deepening customer relationships by opening and closing accounts, performing teller transactions, and supporting the Bank's goals and objectives. The Universal Banker identifies customer needs for bank products and services and reports directly to the Retail Bank Manager.

Salary Range: $17.00 - $18.00 per hour

Duties & Responsibilities

• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the new accounts system database by opening, maintaining, and closing customer accounts in accordance with operating controls, including legal, corporate, and regulatory procedures to ensure the safety of customer assets.
• Provides high-level customer service in person and via telephone to assist customers with account inquiries and/or concerns
• Builds trust with current and potential customers to understand their product/service needs, and provides solutions that will benefit the customer
• Educates customers on Identity fraud
• Performs teller responsibilities in accordance with the Teller job description
• Actively reinforces and contributes towards the Bank’s ALWAYS value system
• Promotes a team environment
• Performs other duties as assigned by management

Education & Work Experience

A high school diploma or GED equivalent, along with at least 1 year of experience in retail customer service, is required.  A minimum of 1 year of banking experience is preferred.

Mental & Physical Requirements

Ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time, ability to bend, squat, and kneel on occasion, ability to lift 30 lbs. consistently, can prioritize, analyze, and resolve problems, and possess strong time management and organizational skills.

Competencies

Basic computer skills required, math aptitude, strong written and oral presentation skills, attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations while maintaining composure.

Consideration for pay is based on neutral factors and criteria such as required qualifications, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority and that we reserve the right to offer the selected candidate a salary at an appropriate level to be set and determined by the employer that is commensurate with the applicant’s qualification, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Verifies loans are accurately booked to the core system per loan documentation.
• Views loan files for completeness and accuracy.
• Maintains loan files and necessary updates, including document imaging.
• Assists with loan document preparation with a focus on timeliness.
• Assists with daily balancing of loan-related general ledger accounts.
• Handles internal and external customer inquiries in a professional and timely manner.
• Provides weekly and monthly reports to management as requested. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

Education & Work Experience

A High School Diploma or equivalent.  A minimum of 2 years’ experience in banking is preferred.

Mental & Physical Requirements

Ability to sit for extended periods, prioritize, analyze, and resolve problems, and manage time effectively. Ability to work within a team environment and be willing to assist team members as needed.

Competencies

Possess proficiency with Microsoft Office products, proficiency with JH 20/20 is preferred but not required, strong oral and written communication skills are required.

Salary consideration is based on factors such as required qualifications, experience, education, skills & training, certifications, or seniority. In addition, the Bank offers selected candidates a salary at an appropriate level commensurate with their qualifications, experience, education, skills, training, certifications, or seniority.

Job Description

The Bookkeeper I is responsible for supporting the bank’s daily financial operations by maintaining accurate records for both internal accounts and customer transactions. Working under the direction of the Cashier, the Bookkeeper ensures the integrity of financial data, supports operational accuracy, and contributes to the overall efficiency of the accounting function.

Salary Range: $18.00 per hour
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

What You'll Do

• Collaborate with staff and customers to resolve inquiries related to account activity, questions, and corrections.
• Use the core banking system to post transactions and run reports
• Work with ATM, Debit Card, and ACH activity
• Assist with system balancing between the core and third-party systems
• Daily, Weekly, and Monthly balancing of GL Accounts
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Accounting Manager

Education & Work Experience

An associate’s degree in accounting or finance is preferred, accompanied by at least 1 year of experience in a bank accounting or bookkeeping department, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Mental & Physical Requirements

Ability to sit/stand/kneel/bend/for extended periods of time, ability to view a computer screen for extended periods of time, ability to lift up to 20 lbs on occasion, possess a high level of detail and accuracy, ability to meet deadlines, ability to work independently with minimal supervision, problem-solving/analysis.

Competencies

Knowledge within bank bookkeeping and/or accounting techniques and procedures; proficiency with Microsoft Office products; high level of detail & accuracy, time management, strong oral & written communication skills, ability to interact with members in all departments.

Salary consideration is based on factors such as required qualifications, experience, education, skills & training, certifications, or seniority. In addition, the Bank offers selected candidates a salary at an appropriate level commensurate with their qualifications, experience, education, skills, training, certifications, or seniority.

This position is with Backlund Investment Company. Backlund Investment Company is a privately held, multi-bank holding company of Better Banks, State Street Bank and Trust Company, and Investment Strategists at Better Banks. The position can be located in either Peoria or Quincy, IL.

Job Description

The Digital Banking Product Leader is responsible for creating exceptional customer experiences by leading the development and execution of the bank’s digital banking strategy. The role serves as a subject-matter expert on digital delivery channels to ensure excellent customer experiences. The Digital Banking Product Leader will define, lead, and continuously improve the digital products and services, leveraging new and existing technology.

Salary Range: $55,456

Duties & Responsibilities

• Manages the development, implementation, enhancement, & support of the Banks’ digital banking products, such as digital banking, online account opening, mobile experience, and electronic services.
• Tracks & measures customer usage of digital products. Reviews and provides digital banking reports to management, as necessary.
• Ensures timely and professional resolution to customer inquiries regarding digital banking.
• Identifies gaps in digital services and advises management on new products or enhancements to improve the digital platforms.
• Actively works with Operations VP, Project Management team on project implementations, improvements, new products, and services.
• Engages with the various bank departments (Lending, Retail, e-Services, Investment teams) to identify strengths and weaknesses with their digital channel and takes steps to improve the customer’s experience.
• Assists in promoting and coordinating cross-selling & training opportunities to staff members on products, services, and procedures; monitors, and ensures progress is achieved through bank goals.
• Manages vendor certificates, licenses, and applications.
• Researches new services and products and recommends enhancements to existing products.
• Leads, advises, and trains eServices teams and staff across the two banks.
• Develops and maintains electronic banking policies and procedures and coordinates with the compliance officer to ensure they comply with regulatory and security standards.
• Communicates and escalates any deficiencies or issues relating to electronic banking service to banks and/or vendors.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education & Work Experience

Ability to sit/stand/kneel/bend/for extended periods of time, lift up to 20 lbs. Developed interpersonal abilities, the ability to work under high pressure while remaining composed. Strong communication skills – both oral and written, with attention to detail- are critical.

Competencies

Relevant digital product & industry knowledge, relevant software applications, experience with working with technology products, formal presentation skills, analysis/problem solving skills, team leadership, time management & organizational skills, decision making, adaptability, and sound judgment.

Consideration for pay is based on neutral factors and criteria such as required qualifications, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority and that we reserve the right to offer the selected candidate a salary at an appropriate level to be set and determined by the employer that is commensurate with the applicant’s qualification, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority.

Job Description

The Retail Bank Manager is directly responsible for managing the daily activities of the branch and for providing support, training, and supervision to the retail branch employees. The Retail Bank Manager ensures the branch's success by providing excellent customer service and promoting the bank's profitability and productivity.

Salary Range: $48,000 with 10% bonus potential

The hours are: M-F 7:45 am-5:15 pm and rotating Sat 7:45 am-12:15 pm

Duties & Responsibilities

• Manages and supervises the daily activities of the branch and retail staff (i.e., sales, security, service, and grounds maintenance) and ensures compliance with policies, procedures, and regulatory banking requirements
• Hires, trains, manages, and motivates staff to meet optimal branch and customer needs; and ensures employees maximize opportunities to sell bank products and services to provide superior service to our customers.
• Builds and maintains new and existing customer relationships, and promotes the bank within the community
• Improves revenue and reduces expenses to grow the business while updating and communicating with management
• Generates referrals to other bank staff and business partners
• Performs as a Universal Banker and teller on an as-needed basis
• Where applicable, performs consumer lending functions in accordance with policies, procedures, and legal and regulatory compliance
• Performs other duties as assigned by management

Education & Work Experience

A Bachelor's degree in management, business administration, or a related field is preferred. A minimum of 3 years of progressively more responsible experience in a banking environment is required. A minimum of 2 years of supervisory experience is required.

Mental & Physical Requirements

Ability to sit/stand/kneel/bend/for extended periods of time, lift up to 20 lbs consistently, critical and creative thinking, ethical framework, ability to operate a variety of office equipment (i.e., computer, telephone, copy/fax machine), organization, prioritization, and time management skills are necessary.

Competencies

Leadership management and coaching, strong communication, sufficient knowledge in banking, proficiency in Microsoft Office products, customer service, presentation skills, attention to detail, results-driven, problem-solving/analysis, and ability to multitask in a high-pressure environment.

Consideration for pay is based on neutral factors and criteria such as required qualifications, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority and that we reserve the right to offer the selected candidate a salary at an appropriate level to be set and determined by the employer that is commensurate with the applicant’s qualification, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority.

Job Description

The Teller performs routine transactional, operational, and customer support tasks efficiently and accurately by following standard operating procedures and identifies customer needs for bank products & services. The Retail Bank Manager directly supervises the Teller.

Salary Range: $17.00/hour

The Hours are:
The part-time position days vary, but are usually between 18-25 hours per week from 9 or 10 am – 4:15 pm. On Fri, this person would work either 9 am-3 pm or 10 am-2 pm. Once fully trained, the new hire will work two Saturdays in a row from 7:45 am to 12 pm, then have one Saturday off.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Provides high-level customer service in person and via telephone to perform routine customer transactional and operational cash responsibilities, i.e., deposits, withdrawals, check cashing, safe deposit box entry, etc., as well as balancing the Teller drawer, bank vault, and ATM, with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Fosters relationships with potential and current customers to educate and connect them to bank products, services, and technology solutions.
• Actively reinforces and contributes towards the Bank’s ALWAYS value system. 
• Promotes a team environment. 
• Complies with applicable policies, procedures, and regulations, while minimizing risks and protecting confidential customer and bank information.
• Performs other duties as assigned by management.

Education & Work Experience

High school diploma or GED equivalent

Mental & Physical Requirements

Ability to stand for extended periods of time, occasional bending, kneeling, and squatting. Ability to lift 5 lbs. consistently and 30 lbs. occasionally.

Competencies

You'll need basic math aptitude, experience with money handling is desired, and the ability to exercise judgment is very helpful. Strong oral communication, customer service, legible handwriting, problem-solving skills, and basic computer skills are required. Attention to detail is critical.

Consideration for pay is based on neutral factors and criteria such as required qualifications, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority and that we reserve the right to offer the selected candidate a salary at an appropriate level to be set and determined by the employer that is commensurate with the applicant’s qualification, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority.

Job Description

Salary Range: $19.00 per hour ($39,520 annual)

Duties & Responsibilities

• Responsible for commercial loan files from application to closing, ensuring files meet bank regulatory compliance requirements 
• Collaborates with lenders to ensure a smooth process from start to finish
• Orders and reviews required documents, such as title policies, appraisals, etc. 
• Prepares loan closing documents.
• Enters new loans on the core system and performs loan maintenance as needed
• Maintains loan files and necessary updates, including document imaging 
• Provides reports to lenders and management as requested 
• Performs Other duties as assigned 

Education & Work Experience

Mental & Physical Requirements

Competencies

Consideration for pay is based on neutral factors and criteria such as required qualifications, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority and that we reserve the right to offer the selected candidate a salary at an appropriate level to be set and determined by the employer that is commensurate with the applicant’s qualification, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority.

Job Description

The SVP of Lending is directly responsible for developing and managing lending strategies that drive growth while maximizing profitability with minimal risk. The SVP of Lending manages and mentors high-performing lenders and collections representatives. This position reports directly to the Bank President.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Develops & executes the Bank lending strategy, and defines goals for loan production and portfolio growth
• Implements, directs, and monitors lending policies & procedures, and ensures operations are compliant, effective, and efficient
• Enforces credit risk policy, procedures, and underwriting guidelines
• Manages and mentors high-performing lending professionals, promoting a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and exceptional service
• Leads the collection process, implementing strategies to manage delinquencies & minimize losses
• Coordinates with other departments to ensure seamless execution of lending programs
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with clients and key business partners
• Represents Better Banks in the community and promotes the Bank’s brand
• Serves as a member of the loan committee and as a key member of the executive team
• Performs as a Lender under the Lender job description
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Bank President

Education & Work Experience

Bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, or related field, minimum of 5 years’ supervisory/leadership in lending, preferably within a community bank; minimum of 7 years’ professional experience in consumer, commercial, mortgage, and indirect lending & collections.

Mental & Physical Requirements

The ability to sit/stand/kneel/bend/for extended periods of time, strong analytical skills with focus on finance data, determination and motivation, ability to work under high pressure and remain composed, exceptional communications, negotiation and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, organization, prioritization, time management skills, ability to lift up to 20 lbs. on occasion.

Competencies

Experience managing a large loan portfolio and driving business growth, expert knowledge of lending regulations, credit risk analysis, and underwriting principles. Advanced technological skills, including bank computer systems and lending software, are preferred.

Consideration for pay is based on neutral factors and criteria such as required qualifications, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority and that we reserve the right to offer the selected candidate a salary at an appropriate level to be set and determined by the employer that is commensurate with the applicant’s qualification, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority.

Job Description

• Interviews customers seeking loans, collects and analyzes financial and related data to determine if applicants meet established minimum criteria for creditworthiness, rejects or approves loans and terms within limits and established bank policies
• Monitors loan repayment activities and performs field work as necessary to locate and collect delinquent loan payments or secure collateral; takes actions required to collect from past-due accounts
• Develops and maintains positive relationships with existing and prospective customers
• Cross-sells bank products and services
• Maintains knowledge and understanding of commercial lending functions, rules, regulations, laws, and policies & procedures
• Actively participates in community events and represents the Bank with a high level of integrity and professionalism
• Handles customer inquiries and/or concerns
• Adheres to bank policies and supports management decisions and goals in a positive, professional manner
• Performs other duties as assigned by senior management

Education & Work Experience

A bachelor's degree in accounting, business, or finance, along with a minimum of 5 years of experience as a commercial lender, is required.

Job Description

The lender is directly responsible for developing and managing mortgage, consumer, commercial, and ag loan accounts that meet established lending objectives and requirements, driving marketing efforts to build positive relationships and loan portfolios, and promoting the bank's profitability and productivity.

Salary Range: $55,653 - $83,479 with 12% bonus potential

Duties & Responsibilities

• Interview customers seeking loans, collect and analyze financial and related data to determine if applicants meet established minimum criteria for creditworthiness, reject or approve loans and terms within limits and established bank policies
  
• Monitors loan repayment activities and performs field work as necessary to locate and collect delinquent loan payments or secure collateral; takes necessary actions to collect from past-due accounts
  
• Develops and maintains positive relationships with existing and prospective customers
  
• Cross-sells bank products and services
  
• Maintains knowledge and understanding of lending functions, rules, regulations, laws, and policies & procedures
  
• Actively participates in community events and represents the Bank with a high level of integrity and professionalism
  
• Handles customer inquiries and/or concerns
  
• Adheres to bank policies and supports management decisions and goals in a positive, professional manner
• Performs other duties as assigned by senior management

Education & Work Experience

A bachelor's degree in accounting, business, or finance is required, AND/OR a minimum of 5 years of experience performing in a lending capacity such as managing mortgage, consumer, commercial, or ag loans.

Mental & Physical Requirements

Ability to sit/stand/kneel/bend/for extended periods, lift up to 20 lbs on occasion, developed interpersonal abilities, ability to work under high pressure while remaining composed, self-driven and motivated, ability to communicate with clients, co-workers, and outside agencies in writing, person, and over the telephone.

Competencies

Strong credit analysis and underwriting skills, advanced lending principles and methods, business objectives of a lending department, proficiency in Microsoft Office products, proficiency in Bank core processing systems, attention to detail, organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.

Consideration for pay is based on neutral factors and criteria such as required qualifications, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority and that we reserve the right to offer the selected candidate a salary at an appropriate level to be set and determined by the employer that is commensurate with the applicant’s qualification, experience, education, skill, training, certifications, or seniority.