GSE Analyst II

First American Bank was founded in Chicago, and over the years has expanded throughout Wisconsin and Florida. As the largest privately held bank in Illinois, we now have over 60 locations and assets of $5+ billion. We are a community bank at heart with international expertise, traditional values, and a forward-looking philosophy. Our employees have the experience and vision to meet the needs of savers, borrowers, and businesses in the 21st century. First American Bank can offer employees a level of visibility, career growth, and stability that is difficult to find in many larger corporations.

The GSE Analyst II is an hourly (non-exempt) position primarily responsible for the servicing and investor reporting of Government-Sponsored Enterprise (GSE) loans. The position maintains proficiency in Power Platform, SharePoint, and data management tools, along with the ability to document processes, collaborate across teams, and support report development and analysis. Additionally, the analyst contributes to process improvement and supports business decision-making through data-driven insights, with continuous learning and proactive problem-solving being essential to success.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES

Investigate and resolve GSE loan-related exceptions by identifying root causes, analyzing system and process discrepancies, and applying targeted solutions. Leverage internal tools and resources to document findings and escalate unresolved issues as needed.
• Consistently review servicing and reporting requirements of the assigned GSE sector and determine any internal process impact. Work with Team Lead to implement process change, with a heavy focus on automation options.
• Create, review, disseminate loans in Process Reconciliation reports.
• Remain knowledgeable with two unassigned GSE sectors, Credit Bureau, Mortgage Funding and Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) reporting, to provide coverage during team members' absence/time off.
• Monitor loan activity reporting, payment remittance and cash reconciliation of one GSE sector (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago) on a daily, monthly and/or quarterly basis.
• Participate in the annual testing of the bank's core system to ensure all functionality is operational.
• Proactively utilize internal procedures, departmental documentation, Google, GitHub, and Copilot to investigate issues and implement effective technical solutions.
• Pursue ongoing professional development by utilizing LinkedIn Learning to complete training in Microsoft Access, SharePoint, Power Platform, and other business-required courses outlined in the Onboarding and Training Plan or assigned by management.
• Work independently, alongside other department staff members or external managers, to improve the development of both new and existing reports and processes.
• Provide insight and recommendations on process improvements based on individual research. Support management staff by designing and analyzing reports as necessary.
• Understand project stakeholders' needs and requirements to execute projects effectively. Make decisions alongside management regarding projects while remaining in line with project and stakeholder goals to produce a satisfactory end-product.
• Assist with training of less experienced support staff on procedures, policies, and regulations.
• Work alongside the department management and other First American Bank departments as well as others within the department to ensure that all activities and projects are completed efficiently.
• Take ownership of errors by promptly communicating issues to the Team Lead, initiating corrective actions, and proposing effective solutions.
• Conduct and complete additional assignments/projects as designated by management.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or equivalent required, Bachelor's Degree preferred.
• Minimum three years of experience applying business analysis skills to evaluate operations, identify inefficiencies, and implement data-informed solutions that optimize processes and enhance workflow performance.
• Knowledge of retail lending, mortgage loans, GSE loans and experience in loan servicing and investor reporting required.
• Knowledge of the Project Lifecycle or other project related experience is preferred.
• Prior design experience with Power Platform is preferred, or a candidate must be willing to be trained and become proficient.
• Strong organizational skills and a desire to work in an agile environment are essential to succeed.
• Demonstrate initiative and the ability to work independently with minimal oversight and prioritize responsibilities within this role.
• Ability to introduce concepts, discuss analyses, and present conclusions and recommendations in a clear and logical way.
• Must be professional, comfortable speaking with external and internal contacts with a demonstrated ability to effectively tailor the message appropriately to the audience and situation.
• Maintain credibility through professional demeanor, appearance, and presence by modeling standards appropriate to our environment and industry.
• Demonstrated ability to convey thoughts and ideas effectively and succinctly via written formats, including emails, letters, and electronic platforms. Maintain professional standards relating to spelling and grammar, including continual status reports to the department manager, data program specifications, preparation of procedures, and project justification reports.
• Maintain good working relationships with internal partners by exhibiting exemplary interpersonal skills, adopting a constructive, solutions-focused approach.
• Use sound professional judgment to balance the interests of the organization and stakeholder, understanding and using available resources to mitigate risks.
• Computer Skills:
  Proficiency with Microsoft 365 products and applications, including the ability to effectively prepare or review documents, procedures, and reports.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Power Platform preferred, specifically Power Apps and Power Automate.
• High proficiency in reporting software and spreadsheet programs. Strong research and analytical skills are required.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new systems and applications, as well as the ability to understand, adapt and adjust responsibilities as a result of system upgrades.
• A strong aptitude for database management, organization, and query analysis is preferred.
• Prior design experience with MS Access is preferred.
• Prior experience with Jack Henry Silverlake is preferred.
• Travel Required (if applicable):
  This position may require periodic travel to attend in person meetings and satisfy office obligations/responsibilities.
• Scheduling/Hours:
  Typical scheduled hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Additional hours may be required depending upon business need.
• Punctuality is required to maintain First American Bank's customer service standards.