FIU Analyst_Fraud Investigations

South State Bank is seeking an experienced FIU Analyst / Fraud Investigator to conduct external fraud investigations and ensure compliance with BSA/AML regulations.

• Investigate referrals of suspicious activity related to potential external fraud and financial crimes
• Responsible for timely and complete documentation of investigative activity in the designated case management system, the collection and compilation of relevant evidence to support the case, and the preparation of well‑constructed, complete, and accurate Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) on applicable cases.
• Research and analyze high‑risk transactions across all payment channels with a sense of urgency.
• Conduct due diligence, evaluate the circumstances, and recommend appropriate risk‑based actions for any cases of potential fraud; escalate as necessary.
• Collaborate with personnel from other departments when conducting investigations, as appropriate.
• Document all findings in a centralized case management system to ensure complete documentation is maintained as required.
• Communicate with FIU management on internal control deficiencies detected during the account monitoring/investigative processes.
• Maintain knowledge of the bank’s products, services, customers and geographic locations, and the potential fraud risks associated with those activities.
• Maintain proficiency in all aspects of BSA/AML compliance.
• Adhere to all provisions of South State Bank policies and procedures, including the confidentiality policy, code of ethics and BSA/AML/OFAC policies and procedures.
• Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned, according to the needs of the bank.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Strong critical thinking, analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong verbal and written English communication skills.
• Subject matter expertise in a wide range of fraud typologies including online banking fraud, account takeovers, check fraud, debit card fraud, ATM investigations, ACH/Zelle fraud, and business email compromise.
• Ability to identify fraudulent, unusual and/or suspicious activity and understand when it needs to be escalated.
• Ability to perform a detailed analysis of accounts and relationships.
• Ability to work and thrive in a fast paced, high intensity, high demand and deadline driven environment.
• Self‑motivated, dependable, adaptable, and detail‑oriented with strong research and organizational skills.
• Ability to handle and accomplish multiple tasks and resolve competing priorities effectively.
• Proficient with PC work, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other varying software if/as needed; knowledge of and ability to use internal bank systems a plus.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to draft reports, prepare documents, and compose letters, memorandums, and business correspondence.
• Ability to interface with all business lines and legal entities and people of varying level, title and knowledge.
• Ability to read, analyze and interpret Federal and State banking regulations related to the Bank Secrecy Act and anti‑money laundering.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 5 years extensive fraud and/or BSA/AML experience in a financial institution.
  • Experience conducting bank fraud investigations.
  • Experience in writing quality SARs and reviewing SARs written by others.
• Certifications/Specific Knowledge:
  • In‑depth knowledge of all fraud typologies and experience conducting fraud investigations for financial institutions.
  • Working knowledge of payment rails such as wire, ACH, debit cards, and checks. Knowledge relating to RTP, credit cards, and cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin is helpful.
  • BSA/AML regulations related to suspicious activity monitoring and reporting.
  • Familiarity with various fraud detection and AML monitoring systems;
    Verafin experience preferred.
  • Strong understanding of bank operations including but not limited to navigating banking systems, understanding teller transactions and interpreting customer transactions.
  • CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner) and/or CAFP (Certified AML and…