Fraud Investigator at Columbia Bank

Summary: 

The Fraud Investigator will be responsible for preventing, detecting, investigating, and reporting fraudulent activities within the bank. This role requires a strong understanding of financial services, investigative techniques, and regulatory compliance to protect the bank and its customers from financial loss. The Fraud Investigator should be detail-oriented, analytical, and have strong familiarity with physical security controls such as video surveillance, card access, and burglar alarms.

Job Responsibilities:

• Investigations and Fraud Prevention
  • Conduct thorough investigations of suspected fraudulent activities, including analyzing transaction patterns, reviewing account histories, and interviewing relevant parties.
  • Work closely with law enforcement and regulatory agencies to support investigations and prosecutions.
  • Perform site surveys, risk assessments, and recommend security enhancements.
  • Provide training and support to bank staff on fraud prevention measures and detection techniques.
  • Stay current on industry trends, regulatory requirements, and emerging fraud patterns to enhance investigative strategies.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of fraud detection systems and policies to strengthen internal controls.
  • Collaborate with internal departments including retail, lending, compliance, risk management, and legal to ensure a comprehensive approach to fraud prevention and detection.
  • Monitor and analyze alerts generated by fraud detection systems to identify potential fraud trends and patterns.
• Response and Recovery
  • Respond to robberies, burglaries, and acts of vandalism as required.
  • Assist with recovering funds directly through the bank or through law enforcement and the court.
  • Perform General Ledger accounting entries as they relate to losses and recoveries.
• Reporting
  • Prepare detailed reports documenting findings, evidence, and recommendations for further action.
  • Prepare and file accurate and timely Suspicious Activity Reports.
• Other Responsibilities
  • Perform other job-related duties as may be assigned.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Three to five years of experience in fraud investigations or related field, preferably within the banking, online banking, and /or financial services industry.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and identify anomalies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present findings clearly and concisely
• Proficient in using investigative tools and software, as well as Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations related to fraud and financial crimes.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Certification as a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or similar credential is highly desirable
• Former law enforcement experience a plus.

Columbia Bank offers the following benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision and Rx which are contributory.
• Bonus programs.
• Employee Stock Option Program (ESOP).
• Life Insurance, Long Term Disability and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (LTD&AD&D).
• Paid Time Off (PTO) which includes Personal and Vacation Time.
• Paid Sick Time.
• Bank Holidays.
• Employees may participate in the 401k program.

Schedule:

Hybrid; 3 days in the office and 2 days work from home based on business need. 

Columbia Bank and its affiliates is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including individuals with disabilities and veterans.