ABS Commercial / Esoteric - Associate / Associate Director (NY / Chicago)

Summary/Overview

Location: New York, NY or Chicago, Illinois, United States

KBRA (Kroll Bond Rating Agency) is seeking an experienced credit analyst to join our Commercial Asset-Backed Securities (ABS) team. The position is open to candidates in our New York City Office or Chicago Office.

The ideal candidate will have experience in commercial ABS asset classes (including, for example, data centers, PDP oil and gas, communications infrastructure, equipment, or aviation); this is preferred, but not required. Successful candidates will possess an ability to be highly adaptable and show strong critical thinking skills.

An Associate or Associate Director within the ABS group holds an integral role on the transaction rating team, engaging in all aspects of the rating process from collateral analysis to report publication.

About the Job

• Conduct and assist in transaction analysis including originator/servicer evaluation, collateral performance analysis, modeling and analysis of bond structure, and review of legal structure and documentation.
• Assist in the preparation of credit memoranda and presentation of transactions to rating committees.
• Prepare and contribute to individual transaction reports for publication.
• Serve as secondary contact to investors and clients or structuring banks, working under the guidance and direction of senior team members.
• Assist in the publication of market commentaries related to topical events or research.
• Engage in ongoing surveillance of rated transactions and updating ratings as warranted.
• Attend and participate in seller/servicer due diligence, investor discussions, or industry events (which, in some cases, may require travel).

You will be successful in this role if you have

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study required.
• Associate level: Minimum of three (3) + years of demonstrated experience in credit analysis within the ABS sector at a Rating Agency, Buy-Side Investor, Credit Research, or similar environment.
• Associate Director level: Minimum five (5) + years of demonstrated experience in credit analysis within the ABS sector at a Rating Agency, Buy-Side Investor, Credit Research, or similar environment.
• Strong Excel skills (excel test may be administered as part of the interview process)
• Strong analytical skills relating to transaction evaluation, including loan credit risk assessment and analysis of asset and bond cash flows.
• Proficient with relevant financial modeling software (e.g. Intex)
• Strong oral and written communications skills (writing sample on request).
• Exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to take initiative, work independently, and work closely with partners in a collaborative environment.
• Familiarity with Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT for research, data insights, and general productivity is a plus.

Salary Range

The anticipated annual base salary range for this full-time position is $100,000 to $150,000. Offer amounts are determined by factors such as experience, skills, geography, and other job-related factors.

Benefits

• A hybrid work schedule (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday in the office)
• Competitive benefits and paid time off
• Paid family and disability leave
• 401(k) plan, including employer match (100% vested)
• Educational and professional development financial assistance
• Employee referral bonus program

More Info

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