Financial Crimes Screening Analyst

The Financial Crimes Screening Analyst is responsible for performing day-to-day analysis of potential watch matches for watchlist screening such as OFAC Sanctions, adverse media, 314(a) Information Sharing, EU/UN sanctions and other sanctions to identify, investigate and confirm potential matches and escalate as defined based on documented bank processes. This role operates under established procedures and escalation guidelines, with defined authority to clear or escalate alerts based on documented thresholds.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Screens customer profiles and transaction data against OFAC SDN (Specially Designated Nationals) lists, PEP (Politically Exposed Persons) lists, adverse media, 314(a) Information Sharing, and other international sanctions lists.
2. Analyzes complex information, identifies red flags, and researches potential matches.
3. Reviews, analyzes, and decisions screening alerts; determines the validity of potential matches.
4. Conducts in-depth research on high-risk customers, including reviewing adverse media, corporate structures, and ownership to identify hidden ties.
5. Meets defined quality assurance (QA) benchmarks, productivity targets, and turnaround time SLAs.
6. Addresses QA feedback and incorporates corrective actions into future alert decisioning.
7. Demonstrates ability to navigate and analyze data across screening, core banking, and case management systems.
8. Participates in ongoing training related to sanctions, watchlist screening, typologies, and regulatory changes.
9. Stays current on updates to OFAC programs, sanctions advisories, and Bank policies.
10. Utilizes automated screening software to identify potential violations in real-time or via batch processing.
11. Escalates positive matches promptly with detailed notes and opens the appropriate investigations and/or management notification as defined by documented processes.
12. Maintains a current understanding of fraud, money laundering and terrorist financing including policies, procedures, regulations, industry best practices, criminal activities, and developing trends.
13. Takes appropriate action on all internal and external notifications and requests.
14. Assists and provides support to others in the department during high volume monitoring periods or absences.
15. Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

• Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice or related field, or equivalent work and/or educational experience, required.
• 2-3 years’ BSA/AML/OFAC, Fraud or Compliance experience, preferred.
• 1-3 years’ experience that demonstrates an understanding of OFAC sanctions, preferred.
• Required to maintain or pursue the Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) certification, Certified AML and Fraud Professional (CAFP), and/or Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE).

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Strong analytical and conceptual thinking skills, with the ability to independently solve problems and make decisions using data.
• Ability to work in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment with fluctuating alert volumes.
• May require schedule flexibility during peak periods, regulatory reviews, or system changes.
• Ability to organize thoughts and express ideas clearly.
• Working knowledge of BSA/AML regulations, OFAC sanctions programs, and KYC (Know Your Customer) principles.
• Knowledge of regulatory environment(s) and emerging BSA/AML and fraud trends.
• Strong investigative, written, and oral communication skills.
• Strong commitment to ethics, and the ability to understand a variety of issues and perspectives.
• Understanding of the banking industry, including bank partnerships with fintech companies.
• Multitasks effectively and takes action promptly, both independently and in a team environment.
• Handles highly confidential information with appropriate discretion, and works well in a high volume, fast paced environment.