Underwriting Specialist - merchant acquiring

The Underwriting Specialist plays a critical role evaluating merchant applications and determining eligibility for payment processing. This position focuses on identifying financial and operational risk, validating business legitimacy, and maintaining compliance with underwriting standards.

This is a high-impact role for individuals who bring a strong analytical mindset, attention to detail, and a collaborative approach to risk assessment.

What You Will Do:

• Analyze merchant applications, financial statements, processing history, and KYC documentation
• Validate business legitimacy using EIN verification, entity formation records, and ownership structures
• Assess creditworthiness and exposure risk for credit card and ACH transactions
• Identify and escalate high-risk business types or unusual profiles to  leadership
• Document all underwriting decisions in alignment with internal policies and regulatory standards
• Engage with merchants to gather missing data or resolve inconsistencies
• Guide applicants through the underwriting process, offering clear explanations and expectations
• Provide feedback on documentation requirements and application improvements
• Work with Compliance and Risk teams to support deeper investigations and chargeback reviews
• Partner with leadership to enhance underwriting workflows, risk models, and approval logic
• Mentor junior staff through application reviews and internal training sessions

What You Bring:

• 2-5 years of experience in underwriting, onboarding, KYC/KYB, or compliance in payments, fintech, or financial services
• Familiarity with identity verification, business formation documents, beneficial ownership, and ID validation
• Knowledge of AML/BSA requirements, OFAC screening, and CDD/EDD protocols
• Ability to evaluate business models and legal structures to assess legitimacy and transaction behavior
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to regulatory compliance
• Experience communicating with clients and collecting sensitive documentation professionally
• Comfort working in fast-paced environments with a focus on continuous improvement
• Bonus: Familiarity with Alloy, Middesk, ComplyAdvantage, or similar compliance platforms