Model Validation and Assurance Analyst I

Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka•Topeka, KS

13d•Hybrid

About The Position

This position may be filled at a level I, II or III depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate. Responsibilities and impact scale with each level, progressing from executing tasks under guidance to leading and mentoring others. The Model Validation and Assurance Analyst is responsible for executing detailed model validation activities and supporting the broader Model Risk Management function. This role performs hands‑on testing, data analysis, and documentation to help ensure the FHLBank’s models and End User Applications operate as intended and comply with policy and regulation.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required for level I, master's degree required for level II and III.
Ph.D. strongly preferred for level III.
Coursework in quantitative risk management, statistics, econometrics, time ‑ series modeling, or machine learning.
Foundational knowledge of financial models and modeling techniques including interest rate models, mortgage analytics, credit risk models; advanced knowledge for level II; expert knowledge for level III.
Basic understanding of quantitative risk concepts such as duration, convexity, or Value‑at‑Risk, deep understanding for level II or III.
Ability to analyze information from databases and complex spreadsheets.
Exposure to programming languages such as Python, R, SQL, VBA, MATLAB. advanced knowledge for level II or III.
Fundamental knowledge and competent skills in Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Ability to work effectively with business partners and external parties, as well as independently.
Inquiring mindset with strong logical reasoning.
Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, Access).
Level I: Demonstrate strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and the ability to apply quantitative techniques to real ‑ world model risk challenges.
Level II: Demonstrate strong technical proficiency, sound judgment, and the ability to communicate complex findings clearly to model owners, risk partners, and senior stakeholders. This role represents a critical bridge between hands ‑ on validation work and strategic model risk oversight.
Level III: Ability to engage with senior leadership, model owners, external validators, internal audits, regulators as needed and FHLBank System working groups. The role includes mentoring junior staff, reviewing analytical work, and driving departmental initiatives that enhance model risk oversight and analytical capabilities across the organization.

Responsibilities

Complete validation tasks, analyses, and documentation.
Execute detailed model validation tests.
Develop analytical tools and enhance automation.
Support and strengthen model governance activities.
Collaborate and support team members and stakeholders on department initiatives.