Anti-Money Laundering Investigator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s interconnected world, the role of anti-money laundering investigators has become increasingly significant.

As financial operations grow more complex, the demand for professionals who can detect, investigate, and prevent illicit financial activities escalates.

But what does the role of an anti-money laundering investigator really entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the intricacies of this position,
• A hiring manager looking to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the domain of anti-money laundering,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a fully customizable anti-money laundering investigator job description template, designed for convenient posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Anti-Money Laundering Investigator Duties and Responsibilities

Anti-Money Laundering Investigators play a crucial role in financial institutions, detecting and reporting suspicious financial activity to ensure the institution’s compliance with the laws and regulations that govern money laundering.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Review and analyze transactions and customer data for potential money laundering activities
• Conduct comprehensive, independent investigations into any suspicious activities
• Prepare and submit suspicious activity reports to regulatory bodies as required
• Identify and assess the institution’s areas of money laundering risk
• Develop and implement anti-money laundering (AML) training programs for staff members
• Stay up-to-date on changes in money laundering and terrorism financing laws and regulations
• Assist in the development, implementation, and maintenance of the institution’s AML compliance program
• Conduct periodic AML audits to ensure the institution’s continued compliance
• Interact with law enforcement and regulatory agencies on AML-related issues

 

Anti-Money Laundering Investigator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a meticulous and dedicated Anti-Money Laundering Investigator to join our compliance team.

In this role, you will be responsible for reviewing and investigating customer transactions and activities for potential money laundering, terrorist financing, and fraud risks.

As an Anti-Money Laundering Investigator, you will be expected to understand and interpret AML/CTF regulations, and apply this knowledge in the review and analysis of customer activity and risk.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough investigations on identified suspicious activities and transactions.
• Prepare and file suspicious activity reports (SARs) in compliance with established regulatory guidelines.
• Perform Customer Due Diligence (CDD) and Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) on high-risk customers.
• Assist in the development and implementation of effective AML compliance policies and procedures.
• Stay abreast with the latest AML/CTF regulations and compliance standards.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders to ensure compliance with AML/CTF regulations.
• Conduct regular training and awareness sessions for staff on AML/CTF regulations.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Anti-Money Laundering Investigator or similar role in financial services.
• Knowledge of AML/CTF regulations and compliance standards.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent report writing and documentation skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Bachelor’s degree in Law, Finance, Criminology, or related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continual training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Anti-Money Laundering Investigator
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel for meetings and trainings. Some flexibility for remote work may be available.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the AML Compliance Officer or Risk Management Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $95,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Anti-Money Laundering Investigator Do?

Anti-Money Laundering Investigators primarily work for banks, financial institutions, or consulting firms specializing in financial crime investigations.

They could also work for governmental bodies involved in financial regulation and law enforcement.

Their main task is to detect and investigate suspicious financial activities that may signify money laundering, terrorist financing, or other financial crimes.

They do this by conducting thorough reviews of transactional records, identifying patterns, trends, and anomalies in financial data.

They work in collaboration with a team of financial crime analysts and investigators, and often liaise with law enforcement agencies, providing them with vital information that may aid in the prosecution of criminal cases.

They are responsible for drafting detailed investigative reports, presenting their findings, and recommending appropriate actions to mitigate risks.

These actions could include filing Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs), freezing assets, or even recommending termination of customer relationships.

Anti-Money Laundering Investigators also play a key role in enhancing the effectiveness of their organization’s anti-money laundering (AML) policies and procedures, often providing training and guidance to other staff members to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

In a broader sense, they help protect the integrity of the financial system and contribute to the fight against financial crime.

 

Anti-Money Laundering Investigator Qualifications and Skills

An Anti-Money Laundering Investigator should be equipped with a unique set of skills and qualifications that are imperative to their role, such as:

• An understanding of financial regulations and laws related to Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Counter-Terrorist Financing (CTF), and other related topics to identify and investigate suspicious activities.
• Strong analytical and research skills to effectively scrutinize transaction data and identify patterns that may indicate money laundering.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise with other investigators, banking staff, and regulators, and to write clear and concise reports on the findings of investigations.
• Proficiency in using financial software and applications to track and analyze financial data.
• Attention to detail and investigative mindset to identify discrepancies, interpret complex financial data, and detect signs of money laundering.
• Able to work independently and in a team, contributing to case reviews and sharing information with other investigators to solve complex cases.
• Problem-solving skills to devise strategies and methodologies for detecting and preventing money-laundering activities.
• Integrity and discretion to handle confidential and sensitive information professionally and ethically.

 

Anti-Money Laundering Investigator Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for the position of Anti-Money Laundering Investigator typically require 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in financial services, compliance, or legal environments.

During this time, professionals can gain valuable on-the-job experience and develop a strong understanding of financial crimes, regulations, and investigative techniques.

This background can be obtained in roles such as Junior Compliance Analyst, Risk Management Associate, or Fraud Analyst.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed a deeper understanding of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) laws and regulations.

They often have had exposure to more complex investigations and have gained skills in using advanced analytical tools and software.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are usually considered experts in the field of financial crime investigations.

They often have experience in managing teams and handling high-profile cases.

These professionals may have worked as Senior AML Analysts, Compliance Officers, or even law enforcement officials specializing in financial crimes.

This level of experience could prepare them for leadership roles within an organization’s Anti-Money Laundering department.

 

Anti-Money Laundering Investigator Education and Training Requirements

Anti-Money Laundering Investigators typically require a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, business administration, law, or a related field.

These degrees provide a solid foundation in understanding the business operations, law enforcement, and regulatory policies which are crucial for this role.

Along with the degree, they must possess excellent analytical and investigative skills.

Knowledge of banking systems, financial transactions, and familiarity with relevant laws and regulations are essential.

Many positions prefer candidates with relevant work experience in banking, auditing, or law enforcement.

Understanding of foreign languages can also be beneficial given the global nature of money laundering.

Professional certification such as Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) is highly desirable.

This certification demonstrates a thorough understanding of anti-money laundering detection and prevention measures.

Furthermore, a master’s degree in finance, business, law enforcement, or criminology can be advantageous, particularly for roles with more responsibility or specialization.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest developments in anti-money laundering measures, technology, and regulations is essential in this ever-evolving field.

 

Anti-Money Laundering Investigator Salary Expectations

An Anti-Money Laundering Investigator can expect to earn an average salary of $69,898 (USD) per year.

This salary can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, the complexity of the job, and the location of the company.

 

Anti-Money Laundering Investigator Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Anti-Money Laundering Investigator need?

Anti-Money Laundering Investigators require strong analytical skills and attention to detail to investigate and identify suspicious transactions.

They should also have strong research skills to thoroughly investigate these transactions and understand their context.

A sound understanding of financial regulations and laws related to money laundering is also vital.

Good communication skills are essential for liaising with internal stakeholders and external authorities.

 

Do Anti-Money Laundering Investigators need a degree?

While not always required, many employers prefer candidates with a degree in fields such as finance, accounting, criminal justice, or law enforcement.

Some roles may also require specific certifications such as a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) designation.

 

What should you look for in an Anti-Money Laundering Investigator resume?

A strong Anti-Money Laundering Investigator resume will showcase a candidate’s experience with financial analysis and investigation.

Certifications such as CAMS are a plus.

Look for evidence of a thorough understanding of anti-money laundering regulations and laws.

Experience in a similar role or an industry such as banking or law enforcement can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Anti-Money Laundering Investigator?

A good Anti-Money Laundering Investigator is persistent and detail-oriented, with a knack for spotting unusual patterns in financial data.

They are knowledgeable about money laundering techniques and regulations.

They have strong problem-solving skills, enabling them to investigate complex cases effectively.

Good communication skills are also essential, as they need to clearly present their findings to stakeholders and potentially law enforcement.

 

Is it difficult to hire Anti-Money Laundering Investigators?

Given the specialized nature of the role, it can be challenging to find candidates with the necessary experience and qualifications.

It may be beneficial to work with a recruitment agency that specializes in financial services or risk management roles.

Offering competitive salaries and ongoing training opportunities can also help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the integral role of an Anti-Money Laundering Investigator.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about sifting through financial records.

It’s about safeguarding our economy, one investigation at a time.

With our definitive Anti-Money Laundering Investigator job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to step into action.

But why halt your momentum?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to sculpting precise job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every investigation contributes to a larger, safer financial system.

Let’s protect that system. Together.

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