Account Specialist I

Responsibilities

Account Opening & Application Processing

• Process new account applications for individual, joint, IRA, and basic entity accounts, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Review customer documentation for identity verification and Customer Identification Program (CIP) compliance.
• Verify application information against submitted documents and flag discrepancies.
• Guide customers through account opening, required documentation, and application steps.
• Process straightforward account maintenance requests, including address changes, phone updates, and beneficiary designations.
• Prepare applications for account approver review.

Customer Due Diligence & Compliance

• Perform ongoing customer due diligence under Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.
• Assist with routine monitoring, documentation, and reporting.
• Identify and escalate potentially suspicious activity or documentation irregularities.
• Maintain accurate customer due diligence records for audit and regulatory purposes.
• Support basic suitability reviews.

Customer Service

• Support customers through chat, email, and phone regarding account opening and maintenance.
• Respond to questions about application status, documentation, and processing timelines.
• Help resolve application holds and documentation issues.
• Collaborate with teammates on time-sensitive account issues and escalate complex matters.
• Document customer interactions in Salesforce.

Process Improvement & Development

• Recommend improvements to policies, procedures, and technologies.
• Participate in training on account types, regulatory requirements, and processing procedures.
• Develop knowledge of entity account structures, trust documentation, and margin agreements.
• Build proficiency in account processing and develop judgment for future approver-level responsibilities.
• Pursue internal Accounts Approval qualifications and pass Series 24 and Series 4 exams.

Requirements

• FINRA SIE, Series 7, and Series 63 licenses.
• Bachelor's degree or related work experience.
• Experience or strong interest in the financial industry.
• Prior customer service experience preferred, especially in financial services or brokerage.
• No prior account processing experience required.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Detail-oriented, organized, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple tasks.
• Ability to work independently, collaborate effectively, and escalate issues appropriately.
• Proficiency with technology and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Interest in AML/KYC compliance and brokerage account operations.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $50,000-$75,000.
• Discretionary performance bonus of 5-10% of base salary.
• Stock purchase options.
• Medical, vision, and dental benefits.
• 401(k) plan.
• 20 paid vacation days, plus an additional paid vacation day during the birthday month.
• 10 paid sick days.
• Gym membership reimbursement and in-building gym.
• Commuter benefits and Metra shuttle.
• Pet insurance.
• Wellness and mental health programs.
• Charitable donation matching.
• Two paid volunteer days off.
• Daily catered lunch and office snacks and beverages.