Lending Operations Manager

Description

The Lending Operations Manager manages a team of Loan Processor/Closers and Underwriters. Responsible for the application to post-close process of the home ownership loan program as well as overseeing the loan processing/closing/underwriting team to ensure efficient workflow and adherence to established procedures and timelines. This role works cross-departmentally, preparing for pre-closing preparations and providing technical support during the loan closing. The position will build and maintain strong partnerships with program staff and third-party lenders to implement efficient processes leading to compliant, timely and successful residential mortgage closings within the home ownership/home repair program.

This position will also contribute to the improvement of loan processes and staff development related to residential mortgages and the homeowner program services within the Family Services department. The position reports to the Director of Program Operations.

Requirements

What You'll Do

Lead Lending Operations

• Oversee the complete mortgage and home repair lending process, from application through closing.
• Manage and optimize the Encompass Loan Origination System, ensuring effective system performance and utilization.
• Develop, implement, and improve lending processes, procedures, and workflows that enhance efficiency and compliance.
• Ensure grant funding, documentation, loan files, and supporting records are accurately maintained throughout the lending process.
• Serve as the primary liaison between Habitat Omaha and third-party lending partners.

Manage Underwriting & Loan Processing

• Lead mortgage preparation, underwriting, and closing activities for Habitat home ownership and home repair loans.
• Review application data to determine mortgage affordability and loan eligibility.
• Participate in underwriting mortgage and home repair loan transactions.
• Maintain expert knowledge of Habitat Omaha underwriting guidelines and recommend policy improvements when appropriate.
• Oversee the home ownership application process and ensure compliance with regulatory and program requirements.

Ensure Compliance & Quality

• Maintain compliance with all mortgage lending regulations and standards, including TRID, Regulation B, and Fair Lending requirements.
• Ensure lending activities meet internal policies, investor requirements, grant obligations, and regulatory guidelines.
• Maintain required certifications and stay current on industry trends, regulations, and best practices.
• Provide documentation and reporting support for executive leadership, accounting, and finance teams.

Drive Performance & Reporting

• Develop and manage reporting tools that provide insights into lending operations and performance.
• Create and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure team effectiveness, efficiency, and service quality.
• Analyze operational trends and identify opportunities for process improvements.
• Maintain shared tracking systems that support visibility into loan pipeline status and closing timelines.

Collaborate Across the Organization

• Partner with Family Services, Financial Coaching, Home ownership, and Home Repair teams to create a seamless customer experience.
• Support the ongoing development of financial coaching and home ownership readiness programming.
• Work closely with leadership to improve lending operations and expand affordable home ownership opportunities.
• Gain and maintain a strong understanding of Habitat Omaha's home repair programs and lending services.

What You'll Experience

Mission-centered impact:
Your work directly helps families access affordable financing and achieve sustainable home ownership.

Leadership opportunity:
You'll lead a dedicated lending team while shaping processes that improve service and efficiency.

Cross-functional collaboration:
You'll work closely with program, finance, accounting, and community partners to support organizational goals.

Professional growth:
You'll deepen your expertise in mortgage lending, underwriting, regulatory compliance, team development, and operational leadership.

What Success Looks Like

• Mortgage and home repair loans are processed, underwritten, and closed efficiently and compliantly.
• Lending staff are engaged, supported, and consistently performing at a high level.
• Loan pipeline visibility is clear, accurate, and actionable.
• Key Performance Indicators are consistently monitored and used to drive improvement.
• Third-party lender relationships are strong and productive.
• Regulatory and compliance requirements are met with accuracy and confidence.
• Families experience a smooth and supportive lending process that prepares them for long-term home ownership success.

What You Bring

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred.
• Previous residential mortgage processing, underwriting, and/or loan closing experience preferred.
• Prior supervisory, leadership, or team lead experience preferred.
• Experience working with low- to moderate-income populations preferred.

Skills &…