Operations Innovation Analyst II - Remote

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 Operations Innovation Analyst II is an hourly (non-exempt) position responsible for designing, revising, and publishing advanced Power BI reports and dashboards and Microsoft Access databases by integrating data from diverse sources and applying complex queries, DAX measures, and automated workflows. 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. This is a remote position.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Create, revise, and publish complex Power BI reports and dashboards, involving linking to various data sources such as ODBC, Dataverse, First American Bank Data Warehouse, Credit Quest, D365 Master-CRM, SharePoint, Microsoft Access, and Excel.
• Leverage Power Query to establish data relationships, develop DAX (Data Analysis Expressions) for calculated measures, and utilize Power Automate to design and implement automated workflows.
• Create highly organized Microsoft Access databases using numbered queries and consistent naming conventions to ensure clarity and ease of use for other analysts.
• Link Access databases to a variety of data sources including ODBC, Dataverse, First American Bank Data Warehouse, Credit Quest, D365 Master-CRM, SharePoint, Microsoft Access, and Excel.
• Create detailed 'Build Notes' using Microsoft Word or OneNote to capture project objectives, system overviews, build processes, and revision history.
• Build and manage various query types such as Select, Make Table, Update, and Delete to support data manipulation and analysis.
• Design user-friendly forms, reports, embedded sub-reports, and macros to facilitate data entry, visualization, and automation.
• Develop advanced query definitions and criteria to extract meaningful insights and export data for reporting or integration purposes.
• Manage SharePoint environments by creating and customizing lists, views, and calculated totals; configuring list settings and user permissions; and facilitating secure data sharing across teams.
• Proactively utilize internal procedures, departmental documentation, Google, GitHub, and Copilot to investigate issues and implement effective technical solutions.
• Pursue ongoing professional development by completing extensive training in Microsoft Access, Power Platform, and other business-required courses outlined in the Onboarding and Training Plan or assigned by management.
• Regularly utilize in-house resources, LinkedIn Learning, and Microsoft Learning to expand expertise in Microsoft Access, SharePoint, Power Platform, and other essential software tools aligned with evolving business needs.
• 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 and coaching for 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 preferred.
• Strong organizational skills and a desire to work in a fast paced, ever-changing environment is essential to succeed.
• Demonstrate initiative and the ability to work independently within a deadline.
• 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.
• 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.
• Maintain credibility through professional demeanor, appearance, and presence by modeling standards appropriate to our environment and industry.
• Must be able to simultaneously work on multiple assignments that may range from problem solving to specific project management.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and dexterity to suitably navigate daily challenges; particularly when presented under the strict time constraints that are typically associated within the department.
• 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.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 0365 products and applications, including the ability to effectively prepare or review documents, procedures, and reports.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Power Platform required, specifically Power BI, Power Query, and Power Automate.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new systems and applications, as well as the ability to understand, adapt and adjust responsibilities/workflows as a result of system upgrades.
• A strong aptitude for database management, organization, and query analysis is required.
• Prior design experience with MS Access is required.
• Prior experience with Jack Henry Silverlake is preferred.
• This position may require periodic travel to attend in person meetings and satisfy office obligations/responsibilities.
• Typical scheduled hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST. Additional hours may be required depending upon business need.
• Punctuality is required to maintain First American Bank's customer service standards.