Loan specialist Jobs in Chicago, IL

Commercial Loan Officer (BDO)

At Cooperative Business Services (CBS), we deliver premier commercial lending services and cutting-edge software solutions to financial institutions across the nation. Our expertise spans all property types, ensuring that we meet the diverse needs of our clients. Our vision is to revolutionize financial partnerships, where institutions thrive and people flourish. This vision drives us to continually innovate and push the boundaries of what's possible in the financial sector. Our mission is clear: to empower financial institutions with innovative thinking and market-leading business solutions. We are committed to providing the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of the market, enabling our clients to achieve sustainable growth and success. Currently, CBS is in an exciting growth period as we position ourselves for 2026 and beyond. Join us on this journey as we continue to transform the future of financial institutions.

The Benefits of Being Part of the Team

• Base compensation for this role ranges from $100,000 - $130,000. This role is also eligible for the Commercial Lender Incentive Program.
• Cell Phone Reimbursement
• Remote Work Environment: We are seeking candidates who are based near Chicago, Illinois
• Generous Holidays: Take advantage of 13 paid holidays each year
• Community Service Time: You will have eight hours of paid time each year for volunteer work. You can use this individually or join group activities.
• Comprehensive Insurance Coverage: Choose from a selection of medical, dental, vision, and supplemental benefit plans to suit your needs. Additionally, the company provides company-paid Short-Term Disability (STD), Long-Term Disability (LTD), and life insurance equivalent to 1 time your salary.
• 401(k) Plan: The company provides a generous matching contribution of up to 6%.
• Tuition Assistance

Your Role in Our Success

The Commercial Loan Officer (BDO) is responsible for originating, evaluating, and advancing commercial lending opportunities in alignment with organizational goals and credit union partner priorities. This role builds and manages referral relationships, guides borrowers through the lending process, and collaborates with internal teams to ensure efficient deal execution. The Commercial Loan Officer (BDO) plays a key role in driving loan growth, expanding client relationships, and representing the organization in the business community.

How You'll Drive Impact

• Loan Origination & Structuring: Generate, evaluate, and structure commercial loan opportunities, including CRE, term loans, lines of credit, and SBA 7(a)/504 products.
• Underwriting & Analysis: Perform initial financial analysis and pre-screening to assess creditworthiness and deal viability.
• Pipeline & Process Management: Coordinate with internal teams (underwriting, closing, and administration) to efficiently move loans from origination through closing, ensuring complete and accurate documentation.
• Relationship Management: Serve as a primary point of contact for borrowers, credit union partners, and internal stakeholders to ensure a seamless lending experience.
• Business Development & Networking: Build and maintain referral networks (CPAs, brokers, attorneys, etc.) and represent the organization at events to generate new opportunities.
• Partner Engagement & Growth: Educate clients and partners on lending solutions, maintain regular touchpoints, and support long-term relationship expansion.
• Market & Strategy Alignment: Stay informed on market trends and collaborate with marketing on targeted business development initiatives.
• Service & Professional Standards: Uphold high levels of responsiveness, professionalism, and service in all interaction

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business, Accounting, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of experience in commercial real estate lending
• Syndication/participation lending knowledge highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of commercial loan products, credit analysis, and underwriting fundamentals.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage borrowers, partners, and internal stakeholders across varying levels of financial knowledge.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and collaborate cross-functionally while contributing to shared business goals.
• Proven organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple deals and deadlines simultaneously.
• Solid financial acumen, including the ability to interpret financial statements, assess credit risk, and support sound lending decisions.
• Knowledge of commercial lending markets, including industry trends, customer needs, and competitive dynamics.
• Effective sales and negotiation skills, with the ability to identify opportunities, structure solutions, overcome objections, and close deals.

Salary Description $100,000 - $130,000