Financial Examiners

Financial examiners work hard to prevent financial crises from occurring. They make sure that banks and other financial institutions follow laws and regulations that keep institutions operating securely and protect consumers’ interests. Financial examiners review balance sheets, evaluate the risk level of loans, and assess bank management. Typically, they specialize in either risk assessment or consumer compliance. Those working in risk assessment evaluate financial institutions’ health. Examiners evaluate bank managers’ performance… ensuring that banks and other financial institutions offer safe loans and that they have enough cash on hand to manage unexpected losses. This helps ensure the financial system remains stable. Financial examiners working in consumer compliance ensure that borrowers are treated fairly. They help borrowers avoid “predatory loans” that generate profit for banks through high interest payments and are risky for borrowers. Examiners also ensure that banks do not discriminate against borrowers. Most financial examiners work full time, in offices, and frequently travel to inspect banks. Typically financial examiners need a bachelor’s degree with some coursework in accounting, finance, economics, or a related field. Examiners who work for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation typically need at least six semester hours in accounting. Once hired, financial examiners typically receive at least one year of on-the-job training… entry-level workers learn under the supervision of senior examiners.