AML Alert Investigator

Columbia Bank; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 62,000 - 83,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia Bank is seeking an AML Alert Investigator I in Irvine, CA, responsible for analyzing account transactions and reviewing AML alerts to assess unusual activity and determine disposition or case escalation.

The role requires 1-3 years in BSA/AML/OFAC or related fields, with strong analytical and communication skills and proficiency in MS Word/Excel. Travel may be required. Competitive benefits and career growth.

Qualifications

• H.S. Diploma/GED required.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 1-3 years of BSA/AML/OFAC or related experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient with MS Word and Excel.

Responsibilities

• Review assigned AML Transaction Monitoring System alerts to determine if activity warrants escalation to case for further investigation.
• Determine if activity warrants escalation and potential case disposition.
• Maintain compliance with bank regulations, policies, and required training.
• Maintain knowledge of BSA/AML, OFAC requirements and related regulations.
• Participate in ongoing training on money laundering typologies and regulatory requirements.
• Coach or train others as needed and support corporate culture.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in business, economics, accounting, or related fields

H.S. Diploma/GED

Tools

MS Word

MS Excel

Job description

About the Role:

The AML Alert Investigator I analyzes account transactions for unusual, out of pattern or suspicious activity. The AML Alert Investigator I will be assigned alerts generated from the AML system’s rules that will vary in complexity and risk for financial crime. Responsibilities include understanding of all transaction monitoring rules underlying AML typologies and then reviewing and analyzing transaction alerts to assess whether the alerted activity is consistent with customer expectations and/or nature of the business and then appropriately disposition as non-suspicious or escape the alert to case for further investigation. Recommends course of action to management based on an analysis of the findings and documents the analysis in the Bank’s AML transaction monitoring system. Supports the company’s compliance efforts with the Banking Secrecy Act (BSA).

• Perform review of assigned AML Transaction Monitoring System Alerts to determine if activity is sufficiently unusual or out of character to warrant the escalating of the alert as a case for further investigation.
• Determine if activity warrants the escalating of the alert as a case for further investigation.
• Maintain and demonstrate compliance with all bank regulations for assigned job function and apply to designated job responsibilities; follows all Bank policies and procedures, compliance regulations, and completes all required annual required or job-specific training.
• Maintain a working knowledge of Bank's written policies and procedures regarding Bank Secrecy Act, 314(a), 314(b), and OFAC sanctions compliance requirements.
• Participates in ongoing training to maintain knowledge of BSA/AML and OFAC regulatory requirements and new and emerging money laundering and financial crime typologies.
• Demonstrates compliance with all bank regulations for assigned job function and applies to designated job responsibilities – knowledge may be gained through coursework and on-the-job training. Keeps up to date on regulation changes.
• Follows all Bank policies and procedures, compliance regulations, and completes all required annual or job-specific training.
• Maintain a working knowledge of Bank's written policies and procedures regarding Bank Secrecy Act, Regulation CC, Regulation E, Bank Security and other regulations as applicable to this job description.
• May be asked to coach, mentor, or train others and teach coursework as subject matter expert.
• Actively learns, demonstrates, and fosters the Columbia corporate culture in all actions and words.
• Takes personal initiative and is a positive example for others to emulate.
• Embraces our vision to become “Business Bank of Choice”
• May perform other duties as assigned.

About You:

• H.S. Diploma/GED required.
• Bachelor's degree in business, economics, accounting, law, law enforcement or related fields preferred.
• 1-3 years of relevant BSA/AML/OFAC, Compliance, Audit or Bank Operations experience required.
• Possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with ability to gather, organize and interpret data and/or information, and formulate preliminary conclusions.
• Proficient in the use of personal computers and related software packages such as MS Word, Excel.
• Knowledge of overall BSA/AML, USA PATRIOT Act, and OFAC requirements and regulations.
• Ability to exercise good judgment in assessing risk.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to security procedures.
• Ability to pivot and reprioritize workload as needed.
• Demonstrate strong communications skills, written and verbal and interpersonal skills to interact with a wide range of individuals and situations with tact, diplomacy and discretion.
• Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) preferred.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Location(s)

• Tigard, OR
• Seattle, WA
• Riverside, CA
• Irvine, CA

The pay range for this role is $30.00 - $40.00.

The pay rate for the selected candidate is dependent upon a variety of non-discriminatory factors including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, education, and geographic location. The role may be eligible for performance-based incentive compensation, and those details will be provided during the recruitment process.

Evergreen:

This posting is part of an evergreen requisition to create a pipeline of talent. If you are interested in potential opportunities in this area, we encourage you to apply. While we may not have an immediate opening at this time, we are always looking for top talent and will reach out as positions become available in the posted locations.

Our Benefits:

We are proud to offer a competitive total rewards package including base wages and comprehensive benefits.

We offer eligible associates comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, and vision plans), a 401(k)-retirement savings plan with employer match for qualifying associate contributions, an employee assistance program, life insurance, disability insurance, tuition assistance, mental health resources, identity theft protection, legal support, auto and home insurance, pet insurance, access to an online discount marketplace, and paid vacation, sick days, volunteer days, and holidays. Benefit eligibility begins the first day of the month following the date of hire for associates who are regularly scheduled to work at least thirty hours weekly.

Our Commitment to Diversity:

Columbia Bank is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to employing, engaging, and developing a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, protected veteran status, disability, or any other applicable protected status or characteristics. If you require an accommodation to complete the application or interview(s), please let us know by email: [e-mail] ([e-mail]) .

To Staffing and Recruiting Agencies:

Our posted job opportunities are only intended for individuals seeking employment at Columbia Bank. Columbia Bank does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies and Columbia Bank will not be responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resume submissions. Staffing and recruiting agencies are not authorized to submit profiles, applications, or resumes to this site or to any Columbia Bank employee and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited unless requested directly by a member of the Talent Acquisition team.

At Columbia Bank, we’re redefining what it means to bank and to build a career. As the West’s premier banking experience, we combine the strength and scale of a leading financial institution with the heart and mindset of a community bank. With more than 350 locations across eight states, we deliver relationship-based service backed by regional expertise and resources that help families and businesses thrive.

Our culture is built on Do RIGHT , which means:

• Relationships: We create authentic connections with customers, colleagues, and communities.
• Impact: Every role here makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives and local economies.
• Growth: We invest in your success with career development, mentorship, and learning opportunities.
• Heart: We care deeply about doing what’s best for our customers and each other.
• Trust: Integrity and transparency guide everything we do.

Why work for Columbia Bank?

• A strong, stable financial foundation with over $67 billion in assets and a diverse portfolio that supports flexibility and opportunity.
• A culture of belonging and purpose, where your ideas matter and your work has impact.
• Competitive benefits and flexibility designed to help you thrive personally and professionally.
• Community engagement that matters, from supporting local businesses to empowering youth through financial literacy initiatives.

Ready to Do RIGHT for your career, your community, and your future? Explore opportunities and join Columbia Bank today.