A loan officer is a professional who works for a financial institution, such as a bank or credit union. Their primary responsibility is to evaluate and approve loans for individuals and businesses. They assess applicants' creditworthiness by reviewing their financial history, income, and other factors before making a decision on whether to grant the loan and under what terms. Loan officers may also help borrowers navigate the application process and provide guidance on repayment options. In summary, a loan officer is responsible for managing the loan portfolio of an institution by evaluating creditworthiness, approving loans, and providing support to customers throughout the lending process.