Senior Construction Lending Specialist

If you are motivated and believe in the credit union philosophy of "People Helping People," join our team! Position Overview:   The Senior Construction Lending Specialist serves as the organization’s subject matter expert for residential construction lending. This position independently evaluates complex construction loan requests, assesses builder eligibility and project risk, and provides recommendations that directly support sound lending decisions and portfolio quality. The role partners across underwriting, loan closing, servicing, construction administration, and branch teams to ensure construction lending programs are administered consistently, efficiently, and in compliance with regulatory and organizational requirements while supporting an exceptional member experience. Essential Responsibilities:   (30%) Independently evaluates complex residential construction projects by analyzing contracts, plans, specifications, budgets, cost breakdowns, and project feasibility. Identifies, analyzes, and mitigates construction-related risks by providing recommendations that support sound underwriting decisions, portfolio quality, and regulatory compliance.   (30%) Perform comprehensive builder due diligence, including evaluating financial strength, experience, licensing, insurance, litigation history, operational capacity, and ongoing eligibility to determine participation in the construction lending program. Approve builder eligibility within delegated authority and recommend exceptions for management approval. (15%) Assist members, builders, and internal stakeholders by answering general questions related to the construction loan program and requirements. Serve as a resource for internal staff regarding construction lending policies, procedures, training, and best practices. Resolve escalated member/builder issues. (15%) Oversee and coordinate complex construction loan administration activities, including draw approvals, funding authorization, inspection review, servicing setup, and issue resolution while ensuring compliance with internal controls and regulatory requirements. (10%) Identify and lead opportunities to improve construction lending processes, controls, and member experience through continuous process improvement initiatives. Recommend policy or procedure improvements. Lead testing of new systems or enhancements. Serve as project lead for department initiatives. Mentor junior staff.  Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.   Required Education & Experience (Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities):   Four-year degree, CCUE Certification, or associate degree via the North Carolina College Transfer Program (NC-CTP). Minimum 5 years of mortgage lending experience including at least 2 years of direct residential construction lending experience. Demonstrated knowledge of residential construction lending practices, project risk assessment, mortgage regulations, and construction loan administration. Demonstrated…