BSA/AML Compliance Associate

General Summary:

Within the US Compliance unit of a large global bank, the BSA/AML Compliance Associate will be responsible for supporting the bank’s BSA/AML Program and ensuring compliance with all applicable BSA/AML and OFAC rules and regulations across all business areas. The candidate will perform day-to-day functional tasks with a primary focus on the Transaction Monitoring lifecycle, including alert review, case investigations, and SAR drafting.

The ideal candidate will bring a balance of Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) and transaction monitoring expertise, demonstrating a strong understanding of AML regulatory expectations and the ability to collaborate effectively in a cross-jurisdictional environment.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Transaction Monitoring & Investigation: Review automated transaction monitoring alerts and conduct end-to-end investigations of suspicious activity, ensuring timely resolution in accordance with internal SLAs and regulatory requirements.
• SAR Management: Responsible for the high-quality drafting of Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs), maintaining robust documentation for "no-file" decisions, and participating in the Quality Control (QC) process of SAR filings.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Liaise with Business Lines, Client Onboarding, Operations, and Legal to support compliant onboarding practices and discuss customer risk tolerance reviews or requirements for additional controls.
• Advisory & RFI: Act as a point of contact for the business to manage Requests for Information (RFIs) and provide guidance on AML-related inquiries.
• Regulatory & Audit Support: Participate in compliance regulatory examinations, internal audits, and independent inquiries by supporting the drafting of responses and the preparation of required materials.
• System Optimization: Contribute to transaction monitoring "tuning" efforts and the development of new detection scenarios based on emerging risks and typologies.
• Procedure Governance: Contribute to the ongoing development, maintenance, and updating of AML team procedures to ensure they remain aligned with corporate guidelines and evolving regulations.
• Special Projects: Execute special projects, thematic reviews, and assignments as needed

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required. Graduate Degree in Law, Business, or other related areas is highly desirable.
• At least five years of experience in BSA/ AML.
• Must be a team player, be able to interface with Senior Management and exhibit a high level of professionalism.
• Must possess in depth technical knowledge of BSA / AML, USA PATRIOT Act, OFAC Sanctions compliance, Know Your Customer (KYC), and transaction monitoring review and reporting.
• Experience conducting company searches and use of resources such as LexisNexis and World-Check.
• Experience with transaction monitoring and case management tools.
• Active Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) designation (preferred) or ability to acquire within 180 days of hire.
• Ability to read, write and speak Spanish is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of LATAM / Spain regions is highly desirable.
• Broker/Dealer experience
• Ability to work independently or with limited supervision on highly sensitive matters.

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

With respect to this position in our Houston Office, the expected base salary ranges from $70,000 to $90,000. It is not typical for offers to be made at or near the top of the range. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. In addition to salary and a generous employee benefits package, successful candidates are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus.

*Employment eligibility to work with BBVA in the U.S. is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions