Loan Processing Specialist

Southern Bank of Tennessee is a trusted financial institution deeply dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and businesses in achieving their financial goals. Headquartered in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, with branches in Smyrna, Lebanon, Brentwood, and Clinton, the bank proudly serves communities across Middle and East Tennessee. Known for providing personalized and transparent banking solutions, Southern Bank of Tennessee focuses on fostering long-term growth and financial stability.

With a strong commitment to building relationships, the bank offers tailored services for personal banking, business financing, and investments, delivering both financial solutions and peace of mind. Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.

Location: Mt. Juliet, TN

Department: Loan Processing

Reports To: Loan Processing Manager

The Loan Processing Specialist is responsible for coordinating the internal processing of loan applications and preparing complete, accurate loan documentation for closing. This role ensures all required information is obtained, verified, and organized in accordance with internal lending policies, regulatory requirements, and departmental standards. The specialist works closely with lenders, loan assistants, underwriters, title companies, and closing agents to support a smooth and timely loan workflow.

• Review loan applications for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with internal lending requirements.
• Order and track all supporting documentation, including title work, appraisals, flood determinations, insurance documentation, and other required third‑party items.
• Communicate with lenders, loan assistants, underwriters, title companies, and closing agents to obtain missing documentation, resolve discrepancies, and ensure timely file progression.
• Review title commitments, appraisals, and related documentation to confirm accuracy and alignment with internal standards.
• Prepare complete loan document packages for closing, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and consistency with approved loan terms.
• Ensure all required disclosures and supporting documents are obtained, properly filed, and prepared for closing.
• Monitor loan pipeline to identify outstanding conditions, documentation gaps, or delays requiring follow-up.
• Coordinate closing activities by confirming applicant receipt of required disclosures and appraisals documents, and by verifying insurance, title documentation, signing authority, closing instructions, and any other required items.
• Validate that all pre-closing and post-closing documentation meets internal policy and regulatory requirements.
• Recommend workflow improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and strengthen overall loan quality.
• Support ongoing operational and compliance initiatives within the Loan Processing Department.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in loan processing, loan operations, loan documentation, or related banking fields preferred.
• Experience preparing loan documents and reviewing supporting consumer, commercial, and real estate loan documentation strongly preferred.

• Strong understanding of loan documentation requirements, including title work, appraisals, insurance, and closing documentation.
• Knowledge of collateral documentation such as deeds of trust, UCC filings, title work and related perfection requirements.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements impacting lending operations (TRID, HMDA, Flood Insurance Regulations, Reg B, etc.).
• Exceptional attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities with the capacity to manage multiple files and deadlines.
• Ability to identify potential risk or documentation deficiencies and elevate concerns appropriately.
• Effective written communication skills for coordinating with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining accuracy in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with loan origination systems and document preparation platforms.

The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to accuracy, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. They will ensure loan files are fully documented, properly organized, and supported by precise, compliant loan documents that facilitate smooth closings and maintain the quality of the institution’s portfolio‑retained loans.