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.