Item Processing Operations Specialist - First American Bank

First American Bank was founded in Chicago, and over the years has expanded throughout Wisconsin and Florida. As the largest privately held bank in Illinois, we now have over 60 locations and assets of $5+ billion. We are a community bank at heart with international expertise, traditional values, and a forward-looking philosophy. Our employees have the experience and vision to meet the needs of savers, borrowers, and businesses in the 21st century. First American Bank can offer employees a level of visibility, career growth, and stability that is difficult to find in many larger corporations.

This hourly (non-exempt) position handles the daily operational functions within the Item Processing department, which includes importing and balancing files throughout the day including Teller Capture, Inclearings and Proof of Deposit (POD), entering data into various systems/applications, processing mail deposits and foreign checks, and providing support to various business units.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Download and import files from various sources into POD system. Verify files are in balance and are successfully transmitted to the Computer room.
• Process incoming mail, which includes balancing and posting to customer accounts for loan payments and checking/savings deposits through Teller Capture.
• Review, data enter, and balance rejected items.
• Process foreign checks. Debit/Credit accounts, create cash letters, and ensure funds are received from correspondent bank.
• Create CD-ROMs requested by customers and other business units.
• Research and process non-conforming images (NCI). Create Image Replacement Documents (IRD).
• Provide support and direction to internal departments as needed. Handle requests to pull or print notices for other business units.
• Process Verification of Deposits (VOD) that come in via U.S. Mail.
• Create outgoing cash letters and verify processing is in balance for end of day submission to correspondent banks.
• Track and prepare statistical reports for management.
• Conduct and complete additional assignments/projects as designated by management.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required. Some college and/or banking courses preferred.
• Minimum one year experience in banking or bank-related field required.
• Previous experience in operations and balancing is preferred.
• Must be detail-oriented and have a good figure aptitude with a high level of accuracy and analytical skills.
• Ability to multi-task and perform tasks consistently and accurately while meeting deadlines.
• Qualified military veterans are encouraged to apply.
• Must be professional, comfortable speaking with external and internal contacts with a demonstrated ability to tailor the message appropriately to the audience and situation effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to convey thoughts and ideas effectively and succinctly via written formats, including emails, letters, and electronic platforms.
• Maintain professional standards relating to spelling and grammar.
• Maintain credibility through professional demeanor, appearance, and presence by modeling standards appropriate to our environment and industry.
• Maintain good working relationships with internal partners by exhibiting exemplary interpersonal skills, adopting a constructive, solutions-focused approach.
• Use sound professional judgment to balance the interests of the organization and customer, understanding and using available resources to mitigate risks.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 products and applications, including the ability to effectively prepare or review documents, procedures, and reports.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new systems and applications, as well as the ability to understand, adapt and adjust responsibilities/workflows as a result of system upgrades.
• Occasional travel to other First American Bank locations, Bank functions, and training facilities may be required.
• Typical schedule is Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Additional hours may be required depending upon business need.
• Must be flexible to work different shifts.
• Punctuality is required to maintain First American Bank’s customer service standards.