Junior Escrow Officer

Job Summary

The Junior Escrow Officer is responsible for supporting the Bank’s escrow operations by administering escrow accounts and facilitating the timely and accurate completion of financial and real estate transactions. This role prepares escrow instructions, reviews and processes transaction documents, safeguards funds and legal records, and ensures compliance with contractual terms, banking regulations, and internal policies. The Junior Escrow Officer coordinates with customers, lenders, attorneys, title companies, and other stakeholders to disburse funds, process mortgage payoffs, record legal documents, and support successful transaction closings. Working with minimal supervision, the incumbent delivers high-quality customer service while maintaining the integrity, accuracy, and security of escrow-related activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Demonstrate working knowledge of creating, preparing, processing, and recording title instruments related to the transfer, conveyance, and/or encumbrance of real property with minimal supervision.

• Review and interpret routine preliminary title reports, identify issues requiring resolution, and take appropriate action based on the specific escrow transaction.

• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with title company personnel, customers, lenders, attorneys, and other third parties to facilitate effective communication throughout the escrow process.

• Maintain accurate transaction records, checklists, and documentation of all communications and activities related to escrow files.

• Exercise neutrality and professionalism in all transactions while maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and data security.

• Adhere to Bank policies, procedures, regulatory requirements, and escrow guidelines, escalating exceptions, discrepancies, unusual transactions, or policy deviations to the Escrow Supervisor.

• Receive, deposit, and disburse escrow funds in accordance with escrow instructions and established controls.

• Coordinate with title companies to authorize recordings and ensure all required conditions are satisfied prior to closing.

• Balance and reconcile escrow files following confirmation of recording and receipt of all remaining funds.

• Process payoff demands, issue checks, and facilitate the timely disbursement of funds to appropriate parties.

• Prepare transmittal letters, closing correspondence, settlement statements, and other escrow-related documentation.

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• Support the successful closing of escrow transactions by ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with all applicable requirements.

• Perform special projects and other related duties as assigned.

• Work Saturdays, as needed, to support special projects and business needs with management approval.

Compliance Responsibilities

Complies with all applicable state and federal banking laws, regulations, and internal policies related but not limited to lending, operations, and deposit requirements, including Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements, Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) regulations, Customer Identification Program (CIP) requirements, Financial Elder Abuse reporting laws, Sexual Harassment prevention policies, information security and privacy requirements.

Required Knowledge

• Proficiency in FPS System and other escrow-related banking systems.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.

• Knowledge of loan documentation and the ability to review and process various loan types and related documents.

• Understanding of the Privacy Act, confidentiality requirements, and information security practices applicable to banking and escrow operations.

• Knowledge of wire transfer procedures, including the verification, processing, and safeguarding of electronic funds transfers.

• Working knowledge of the Bank’s products and services, including lending, deposit, and related financial services.

• Ability to interpret title reports, escrow instructions, legal documents, and real estate transaction records.

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with Bank policies and regulatory requirements.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact professionally with customers, title companies, attorneys, lenders, and other third parties.

• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple transactions simultaneously.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality, exercise sound judgment, and remain impartial throughout the escrow process.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong organizational and administrative skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.