FIU Junior Analyst

Vantage; McAllen (TX); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Vantage Bank in McAllen, TX is seeking a Junior Analyst to perform in-depth BSA/AML research, monitoring, and reporting. You will support multiple FIU areas, investigate suspicious activity, and assist in AI-driven enhancements to analytical processes.

Requirements include a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, 1+ year BSA/AML experience, and proficiency with AML regulations. Strong analytical thinking and communication skills are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, analytical field, or equivalent experience.
• ACAMS certification or completion of at least one ACAMS foundational certificate course preferred.
• 1+ year prior BSA/AML-related banking experience required.
• 3+ years of prior experience in a financial or analytical field required.
• Understanding of KYC, CDD, EDD, Beneficial Ownership, and CTR requirements.
• Ability to review financial data quickly and identify unusual transactions.
• Strong analytical ability to synthesize data into a narrative.
• Ability to work independently under regulatory deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills with internal and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Investigates AML alerts and prepares documentation for investigations.
• Files Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) as needed.
• Documents research and findings in case management system clearly.
• Assesses patterns for potential new alerts or thresholds.
• Ensures timely follow-up SARs within required timeframes.
• Collaborates with business lines on BSA/AML issues and compliance.
• Mentors junior analysts as needed.
• Keeps up-to-date with BSA/AML, CIP, and OFAC regulations.

Skills

ACAMS certification

BSA/AML knowledge

KYC/CDD/EDD

Analytical thinking

Time management

Communication skills

Microsoft Office

AI tools mindset

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/analytical field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

## FIU Junior AnalystApply: Location - McAllen Main: Full time: Posted Yesterday: JR100203**At Vantage Bank, we're driven by a deep commitment to supporting our customers, valuing our employees, embracing diversity, fostering meaningful connections, and providing outstanding service every step of the way.** **JOB SUMMARY**The Junior Analyst performs in-depth research, monitoring, and reporting as necessary to comply with all BSA/AML/OFAC regulations. They assist other FIU areas and conduct routine to moderately comprehensive analysis and reporting. The Junior Analyst will identify, report, and defend their determination of the BSA/AML risk a transaction or customer type poses to the bank. They assist in identifying and developing AI-driven solutions to the team analytical processes.**ESSENTIAL DUTIES***The duties listed below may not include all responsibilities that the person in this role may be asked to perform. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties as assigned.* * Utilizes a variety of internal bank systems and external research tools to investigate, research, and prepare documentation related to ani-money laundering investigations.* Performs timely investigations with well-reasoned and supported decision-making of suspicious activity reports.* Prepares and documents research, analysis and investigatory findings in department’s case management system in a concise and thorough manner. Summarizes and concludes accurate SAR filing decisions.* Investigates escalated alerts generated by the bank’s automated software of potential suspicious activity involving money laundering, terrorist financing and fraudulent activity across all business lines to determine and recommend appropriate resolution (e.g., completion of a SAR, exit relationship, continued monitoring).* Utilizes experience and research to identify unusual patterns or trends that could potentially require a new system alert, modifications to an existing alert threshold, or the creation of a manual report.* Ensures all monthly cases assigned, whether system generated or via internal referral, are investigated thoroughly and escalated to management when needed in consultation with Lead Analyst. Ensure all results of analysis are documented properly.* Drafts Suspicious Activity Reports as needed and submits SARs to FIU Team Lead allowing enough time for review, approval and submission. Ensures that decisions not to file SARs are well supported and documented.* Ensures 90-day follow-up SARs or supplemental SARs are filed within the required timeframe.* Assists business lines with BSA/AML related issues and be proactive in developing relationships with associates throughout the bank.* Ensures compliance with all Bank policies and procedures, as well as all applicable state and federal banking regulations, which include BSA, CIP, and OFAC requirements as they apply to this job title/position.* Demonstrated basic knowledge of the monitoring of BaaS and digital asset transactions and blockchain analysis.* Works closely with team members to identify any pain points in the department’s processes and have a fundamental knowledge of how AI can assist in the analytical process to develop properly structured prompts capable of assisting all analysts.* Mentors Associate Analysts and team members as needed.* Other duties as assigned.**QUALIFICATIONS***These specifications are general guidelines based on the minimum experience normally considered essential to the satisfactory performance of this position. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required to perform the position in a satisfactory manner. Individual abilities and organizational limitations may result in some deviation from these guidelines.** Bachelor’s degree in Business, analytical field, or equivalent experience required.* ACAMS certification or completion of at least one ACAMS foundational certificate courses preferred.* 1+ year prior BSA/AML-related banking experience required.* 3+ years of prior experience in a financial or analytical field required.* Prior knowledge of AML/OFAC regulations, the US Patriot Act and BSA Pillars.* Understanding of KYC, CDD, EDD, Beneficial Ownership, and how to assess customer risk, along with CTR regulatory requirements and procedures for filing.* Ability to quickly review financial data and use internal and external sources to determine if transactions are unusual.* Advanced understanding of the analytical process and ability to synthesize data into a coherent and concise narrative.* Ability to work independently and under strict time constraints due to regulatory deadlines* Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills with both external and internal customers.* Must be self-motivated with strong initiative, high level of accountability, and attention to detail.* Excellent analytical, time management, organizational and problem-solving skills with the ability to multi-task and work in a deadline-driven environment.* Comfortable using and learning new technologies, including AI tools, with a proactive mindset toward improving efficiency and productivity.* Proficient computer skills with knowledge of Microsoft Office including, but not limited to, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, the Windows environment, and internet research skills.* Must be a self-starter with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.* Ability to always maintain a high degree of ethical standards and complete confidentiality. **COMMUNITY IMPACT**Community involvement is part of who we are. Our culture is built on teamwork, purpose, and service. We value volunteerism and create opportunities for employees to connect, give back, and make a positive difference in our communities. As part of the Vantage Bank team, all associates should embrace our community involvement and culture to ensure we are making an impact.**BANK SECRECY ACT (BSA)**All employees of Vantage Bank, herein referenced to as the “Bank”, must comply with the terms of the BSA Policy upon acceptance of this position. The primary responsibility for enforcement of this policy and its operating procedures rests with the BSA/AML/OFAC Officer. However, it is the responsibility of each employee to take the required BSA training modules and become familiar with and adhere to the Bank Secrecy Act, Anti Money Laundering and Office of Foreign Asset Control Policy.