Retail Operations Associate II

Unity Bank; Clinton (NJ); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A retail banking institution in New Jersey is looking for an Operations Associate to oversee complex functions related to deposit accounts and escrow services. This role requires a detailed-oriented professional with 3–5 years of retail banking experience. You will manage operational tasks, ensure compliance, and contribute to customer service initiatives. Ideal candidates will possess a degree in Business or Finance and strong skills in banking operations. Competitive salary and benefits are provided.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in retail banking operations or deposit services.
• Strong understanding of retail banking operations and deposit products.
• Familiarity with banking regulations and compliance standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and execute operational functions related to deposit accounts.
• Lead processing and maintenance of escrow accounts.
• Manage monthly general ledger reconciliations.
• Coordinate annual escheatment process.
• Calculate and validate interest and corrections.

Skills

Retail banking operations

Detail-oriented

Organizational skills

Microsoft Office Suite

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Effective communication

Independent worker

Team collaboration

Commitment to confidentiality

Education

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or a related field

Tools

Core banking systems

Job description

Position Summary

Responsible for overseeing and executing a wide range of complex operational functions related to deposit accounts, escrow services, IRAs, and other retail banking products. The associate is expected to take initiative, lead process improvements, and actively participate in cross‑functional projects and strategic initiatives. Recommend and implement operational enhancements, ensure regulatory compliance, and support the bank's commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.

Essential Functions

• Lead the processing and maintenance of escrow accounts, including setup, sub‑account creation, transfers, closures, and monthly operating statements.
• Take ownership of monthly general ledger reconciliations and ensure timely resolution of discrepancies.
• Coordinate and lead the annual escheatment process, including customer outreach and remittance of funds to the state.
• Calculate and validate interest and interest corrections, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Process entries for approved charge‑off requests and provide recommendations for process improvements.
• Review and correct savings bond addenda, identifying trends and proposing enhancements.
• Manage levy disbursements and compile/disseminate research in accordance with instructions and regulatory guidelines.
• Oversee deposit account and safe deposit box maintenance, ensuring operational efficiency and accuracy.
• Lead IRA transaction processing including new account setup, rollovers, disbursements, closures, and maintenance.
• Monitor and resolve exceptions related to ACH, check processing, and returned items, recommending process changes where applicable.
• Serve as a subject matter expert and resource for branch staff, providing guidance and resolving operational inquiries.
• Oversee the Check Casher and Branch Cash relationships, Armored Carrier Services, as well as support Fed Cash Service programs.
• Ensure check casher relationships are profitable while mitigating risk associated with this line of business.
• Participate in daily reconciliations and reporting for deposit‑related activities, identifying opportunities for automation and efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements (e.g., BSA/AML, Reg CC, Reg E).
• Actively participate in the implementation of new deposit products, services, and system enhancements.
• Contribute to audits, exams, and internal reviews by leading documentation efforts and responding to inquiries.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation for all operational activities, recommending improvements to record‑keeping practices.
• Identify and lead process improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong understanding of retail banking operations and deposit products.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook); experience with core banking systems preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Commitment to confidentiality and data integrity.

Education and Experience

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• 3–5 years of experience in retail banking operations or deposit services.
• Experience in a community bank or similar financial institution is a plus.
• Familiarity with banking regulations and compliance standards.

Licenses and Certifications

• N/A

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability.

This job description is not an employment agreement or contract, implied or otherwise. Unity Bank maintains "at will" employment.

Unity Bank is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and prohibits discrimination in hiring, promotion and terms and conditions of employment on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin/nationality, ancestry, religion/religious practices or observances, age, sex, gender identity or expression, affectional or sexual orientation, marital status, civil union status, domestic partnership status, disability or perceived disability, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, genetic information, and status as a veteran or disabled veteran of, or liability for service in, the Armed Forces of the United States. Unity Bank commits to making reasonable accommodation to the known physical or mental limitations of qualified individuals with disabilities and qualified disabled veterans provided the individual is able to perform the essential functions of the job, unless such accommodation would impose an undue hardship upon Unity Bank. A qualified employee or job applicant with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting Unity Bank's human resources department.