Loan Associate

First Western; Vail (CO); On-site; USD 35,000 - 49,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match

Paid parking

HSA & FSA

Medical/dental/vision coverage

PTO & holidays

Training & development

Certifications sponsorship

Collaborative culture

Job summary

First Western Trust is seeking a Loan Associate to support the full lifecycle of loans after origination. The role covers loan boarding, funding, payment processing, collateral tracking, and documentation, with independent work under supervision to prioritize daily workflows and train peers.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor's degree or equivalent, 0–3 years in banking or lending, and strong Excel and CRM skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.
• 0–3 years of experience in banking, lending, credit, or a related development program.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Familiarity with banking systems and credit software; CRM experience preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High initiative and follow-through, with a strong customer service mindset.
• Ability to prioritize and complete tasks independently and collaboratively.
• Demonstrated ability to resolve routine problems using established procedures and elevate issues when necessary.
• Capable of navigating multiple internal relationships and working productively with peers, Relationship Bankers, credit, and operations teams.

Responsibilities

• Gather due diligence documents and application materials; help prepare credit files and supporting documentation for new and renewed loan opportunities.
• Compile and organize file-appropriate approval documents and assist in preparing closing packages in coordination with Relationship Bankers.
• Partner with Loan Operations to ensure accurate booking and funding of new loans, and support ongoing maintenance of the loan portfolio.
• Track past due loans, annual reviews, maturing loans, and renewals; ensure data accuracy and timely follow-up on outstanding items.
• Respond to client requests, including loan advances, account updates, and payment inquiries.
• Assist with preparation of presentations and materials for onboarding new clients and supporting Relationship Banker planning efforts.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Customer service mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Excel

CRM software

Banking systems

Job description

Salary: $25.49 - $35.58/HR *Actual offer will be based on experience, location, education, and/or skills*

Applications should be submitted for consideration no later 09/30/2026.

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Who We're Looking For

You're detail-oriented and service-driven, with a solid foundation in loan support and a passion for helping clients succeed. From preparing loan files to monitoring past dues and covenants, you're someone who keeps processes organized and accurate. You bring a team-first mindset, strong communication skills, and a client-focused approach to every interaction- whether it's with a colleague or a client. If you're eager to grow your lending knowledge and support a high-performing Relationship Banking team, this role is for you.

About the Role

The Loan Associate plays a critical role in supporting the full lifecycle of loans after origination. This role handles a wide range of operational tasks, including loan boarding, funding, payment processing, collateral tracking, and paid loan documentation. Working independently under general supervision, you'll prioritize daily workflows, ensure accuracy across systems, and serve as a resource to peers through training and cross-coverage support. Your ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining strong attention to detail will drive consistency across the loan servicing process.

What You'll Do

• Gather due diligence documents and application materials; help prepare credit files and supporting documentation for new and renewed loan opportunities.
• Compile and organize file-appropriate approval documents and assist in preparing closing packages in coordination with Relationship Bankers.
• Partner with Loan Operations to ensure accurate booking and funding of new loans, and support ongoing maintenance of the loan portfolio.
• Track past due loans, annual reviews, maturing loans, and renewals; ensure data accuracy and timely follow-up on outstanding items.
• Respond to client requests, including loan advances, account updates, and payment inquiries.
• Assist with preparation of presentations and materials for onboarding new clients and supporting Relationship Banker planning efforts.

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.
• 0–3 years of experience in banking, lending, credit, or a related development program.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Familiarity with banking systems and credit software; CRM experience preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High initiative and follow-through, with a strong customer service mindset.
• Ability to prioritize and complete tasks independently and collaboratively.
• Demonstrated ability to resolve routine problems using established procedures and elevate issues when necessary.
• Capable of navigating multiple internal relationships and working productively with peers, Relationship Bankers, credit, and operations teams. Some external client contact on routine matters.

What We Offer

• 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Paid parking and transportation benefits.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including:
  • Health savings accounts (HSA)
  • Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Generous paid time off and bank holidays.
• Access to training and professional development programs.
• Sponsorship and support for obtaining professional certifications.
• A culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and shared success.

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Who We Are

At First Western Trust, we're more than just a financial institution-we're a team of forward-thinkers committed to excellence, innovation, and impact. Our culture thrives on teamwork and mutual respect, grounded in the belief that diverse perspectives fuel creativity and help us tackle challenges in fresh, effective ways.

We celebrate each other's successes, welcome new ideas, and take personal ownership in everything we do. A genuine desire to positively impact our clients, communities, and one another drives our work. We meet challenges with a growth mindset, act with urgency and accountability, and constantly strive to raise the bar for ourselves and our clients.

Leadership at First Western means setting an example and fostering a culture of trust, transparency, and respect. Whether you're just beginning your journey or bringing years of experience, you'll find a welcoming community where your contributions are valued and your potential is boundless.

• Demand and reward excellence.
• Take action and responsibility.
• Collaborate, communicate openly, and give/receive feedback with trust.
• Go above and beyond to do what's right - always.

If that sounds like you, you'll fit right in.

First Western Trust is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace where every team member is valued and given the opportunity to thrive. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. For accommodation requests, please contact [e-mail].

Region A Pay Range

Pay Range

$25.49 - $35.58 USD

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