Payment Operations - Payments Generalist

Golden 1 Talent Acquisition Team•Sacramento, CA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

As a Payments Generalist, you will play a crucial role in ensuring smooth and efficient payment processes across a variety of functions. You will support and assist with check processing, ACH processing, wire processing, card processing (debit and credit), real time payments, treasury management implementation and other payment-related tasks as needed. This role is designed for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and is eager to assist across different areas of Payment Operations. This role will work closely with internal teams to keep production moving and resolve issues quickly, ensuring we continue to deliver outstanding service to our members.

Requirements

High School or GED required.
5+ years’ experience in cash management, operations, or related financial roles.
3+ years’ experience either in check processing, ACH processing, Wire processing, Cards, Real Time Payments and/or Treasury Management Implementation.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy in handling financial transactions.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to foster collaboration across departments and with external partners.
Ability to multitask and manage time efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
Demonstrated ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess operational performance and implement improvements effectively.
Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
Familiarity with payment processing systems, General Ledger systems, and related technologies.
In-depth knowledge of ACH processing rules, NACHA regulations, and compliance with federal laws related to bank secrecy and anti-money laundering.
Proficient computer skills and software experience.
Strong oral and written communication skills required to train and staff, implement, as approved; procedural recommendations, negotiate vendor contracts and perform other related tasks.
Must possess sufficient manual dexterity to skillfully operate an online computer terminal and other standard office equipment, including a typewriter, adding machine, personal computer, facsimile machine and telephone.
Ability to work as part of a team.
Prolonged sitting throughout the workday with occasional mobility required.
Corrected vision within the normal range.
Hearing within normal range. A device to enhance hearing will be provided if needed.
Occasional movements throughout the department daily to interact with staff, accomplish tasks, etc.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in related filed or equivalent work experience is preferred.
Relevant certifications, such as Certified Payments Professional or NACHA certification, are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Assist in the day-to-day operations of check processing, ACH, wire processing, treasury management implementation and other payment-related tasks as needed ensuring smooth and efficient workflows.
Prioritize tasks, oversee departmental queues, workflows, create, and send outgoing ACH files, internal money movement, manually return ACH entries, process reversals and complete timely reconciliation of general ledgers.
Diligently safeguard the credit union's best interests, ensuring prudent financial practices and strategic decision-making.
Support branch staff with wire entry and member inquiries and issues related to wire transfer activity.
Monitor wire queues for timely processing.
Carefully review all wire activity for accuracy, funds availability and fraud concerns.
Provide wire transfer reports daily to management, Accounting, and other departments as required.
Oversee daily operations such as ATM and mobile deposits, loan & Visa payments, and bill pay transactions, ensuring adherence to service level agreements.
Handle escalations, monitor for fraudulent activities, maintain records, implement quality control measures, and collaborate on strategic initiatives.
Support the vision, mission, and strategic goals of the Credit Union by performing assigned duties and activities related to the department of Card Operations.
Communicate and interact with members, staff, vendors, and merchants to provide assistance on all card-related issues.
Assist with the daily operations of the department, such as reconciliation, settlement, risk mitigation, fraud detection, validation, reporting, and documentation for Real Time Payments.
Configure and optimize systems to enable business members to utilize secure payment capabilities through our online banking platform.
Ensure that all payment operations comply with relevant regulations and industry standards, including NACHA rules for ACH, Regulation CC for checks, and the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) for wire transfers.
Stay current on changes in payment-related regulations and help implement necessary updates to ensure compliance.
Develop and conduct training sessions for new employees, ensuring a comprehensive onboarding process and fostering a knowledgeable and skilled team.
Provide ongoing training and support to existing team members to enhance their proficiency and adaptability within the department.
Monitor the workflow, overseeing a wide variety of tasks to maintain efficiency and effectiveness.
Ensure that the team stays within assigned limits, maintaining meticulous records, and balancing daily transactions.
Provide support across various areas within Payment Operations, acting as a flexible team player who can step in where needed to keep processes on track.
Identify and resolve issues in payment processing, working closely with internal teams to troubleshoot and ensure timely and accurate resolution.
Maintain accurate records, document processes and procedures, and ensure operations comply with internal policies and external regulatory requirements.
Look for opportunities to enhance process efficiency, reduce errors, and improve service delivery within Payment Operations.
Stay abreast with credit union and departmental training by actively engaging in knowledge-building sessions.
Pursue self-directed development, cross-training opportunities to elevate expertise in workflow responsibilities.
Participate in credit union professional development programs to enhance career progression.
Embrace additional responsibilities as assigned, including supporting system validation efforts and contributing to broader departmental initiatives.
Identify and propose process optimization, with a digital innovation focus, to enhance the operational performance.
Support implementation of digitally focused projects, which include participating in testing new solutions.
Foster a positive, inclusive work environment that inspires others through words and actions; motivate other employees by embracing and practicing Golden 1’s mission, vison, and core values.
Maintain organized and detailed records of all interactions, transactions, communications related to workflows, review and update workflow procedures and prepare statistical information to Management.