Deposit Operations Specialist

LAKE SHORE BANK•Orchard Park, NY

2d•$40,000 - $68,000

About The Position

Under the direction of Operations Management and in accordance with Lake Shore Bank policies and procedures, the Deposit Operations Specialist supports and executes operational functions related to deposit accounts and payment systems. The role maintains adherence to regulatory requirements and internal controls while ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant transaction processing across ACH, online banking, wire transfers, item processing, debit card services, merchant services, and emerging payment technologies. The specialist helps maintain a controlled and compliant operating environment, identifies operational discrepancies and potential risks, and supports process efficiencies and automation while preserving appropriate control structures. The role also collaborates with internal departments and lines of business, supports banking systems and products, and acts as a backup to the Call Center when necessary.

Requirements

At least 5 years of banking, branch operations, call center, or related financial institution experience.
Strong understanding of banking operations, deposit products, and payment systems, including ACH, wire transfers, item processing, and digital banking services.
Working knowledge of applicable regulations and industry standards, including NACHA Operating Rules, Regulation E, Regulation CC, BSA/AML, and OFAC requirements.
Ability to apply internal controls and risk mitigation practices in a transaction-processing environment.
High accuracy and attention to detail, with the ability to identify discrepancies and resolve exceptions in a timely manner.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and investigative skills, including the ability to research and interpret transactional issues and system data.
Effective time-management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments and lines of business.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Customer focus, including the ability to conduct outreach to and filter inquiries from external customers.
Adaptability to evolving technologies, systems, regulatory requirements, and emerging payment methods.
Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Ability to maintain positive working relationships and follow the bank's Code of Conduct, policies, and procedures.

Nice To Haves

Accredited Automated Clearing House Professional (AAP) certification is preferred; alternatively, ability to obtain it within one year of hire.

Responsibilities

Perform daily operational functions supporting deposit and payment activities, including ACH processing, wire transfers, item processing, and digital banking services.
Process, review, and monitor transactions for accuracy, timeliness, compliance with internal controls, and adherence to service level standards.
Support electronic banking platforms by maintaining user access, troubleshooting, and resolving operational issues.
Process wire transfers, including verification and callback procedures, in accordance with internal controls and fraud prevention standards.
Process and balance check and item transactions, including exception handling, adjustments, and reconciliation activities.
Administer debit card and ATM services, including maintenance, transaction review, and resolution of cardholder issues.
Support merchant services operations, including onboarding assistance, maintenance, and transaction-related inquiries.
Review ACH activity, including file processing, exception items, returns, and notifications of change, in accordance with applicable rules and internal procedures.
Assist with ACH origination administration, including customer setup, exposure limit monitoring, file review, risk assessment, and compliance with NACHA Operating Rules.
Monitor ACH activity for unusual patterns, exception conditions, duplicate files, and potential fraud indicators.
Ensure compliance with the Bank ACH Policy, NACHA Operating Rules, BSA/AML requirements, Regulation E, Bureau of Fiscal Service Green Book requirements, and other applicable regulatory guidance.
Process and manage Regulation E disputes, including intake, investigation, documentation, provisional credit determination, and resolution within required regulatory timeframes.
Identify, investigate, and resolve operational discrepancies, exceptions, and customer-impacting issues in a timely and controlled manner.
Maintain complete and accurate records, supporting documentation, and audit trails for audits, regulatory examinations, and management reviews.
Support periodic internal control reviews, user access reviews, and operational certifications.
Monitor transactional activity and escalate suspicious or unusual activity in accordance with BSA/AML and fraud prevention protocols.
Collaborate with internal departments and lines of business to facilitate issue resolution and consistent service delivery.
Support implementation, enhancement, and ongoing maintenance of banking systems, products, and emerging payment technologies.
Identify opportunities for process improvement, efficiency gains, and automation while maintaining appropriate control structures.
Act as backup to the Call Center when necessary.
Complete additional operational tasks and projects assigned by management.
Maintain a positive work atmosphere through conduct and communication that supports positive working relationships with customers, coworkers, and managers.
Perform duties in accordance with the Lake Shore Bank Code of Conduct Policy and applicable bank policies and procedures.