Merchant Risk Monitoring Investigator

About the Role:

We're looking for an experienced, detail-driven investigator to join our Merchant Risk Monitoring team. In this role, you'll be on the front lines of protecting borrowers and preventing financial loss — identifying suspicious merchant behavior, investigating fraud and abuse, and taking action before problems escalate.

This isn't a passive monitoring role. You'll own investigations from initial alert through resolution, work closely with a fast-moving team, and directly influence risk outcomes. If you thrive in a high-stakes environment where your work has real impact, this role is for you.

What You’ll Do:

• Monitor merchant accounts on an ongoing basis, identifying anomalies, suspicious patterns, and early warning signs of fraud or borrower abuse.
• Lead investigations into fraud, compliance violations, contractor misconduct, licensing issues, and abnormal loan activity — from intake through resolution.
• Dig into transaction data, account history, and performance metrics to uncover root causes and build a clear evidentiary record.
• Conduct background research on merchants, including criminal history, regulatory violations, negative news, and reputational red flags.
• Prepare thorough, well-organized investigation reports with findings, risk assessments, and recommended actions for leadership and cross-functional partners.
• Work with Risk, Compliance, Legal, and Operations teams to implement mitigation strategies and escalate high-risk situations appropriately.
• Contribute to the development of risk frameworks, monitoring protocols, and investigative playbooks to strengthen the team's capabilities over time.
• Stay current on industry trends, regulatory changes, and fraud schemes relevant to merchant services and home improvement lending.

What We Look For:

• 3–5 years of experience in fraud investigations, merchant monitoring, operational risk, or a closely related field within financial services or payments.
• Strong analytical instincts — you can interpret complex data, spot patterns, and connect dots across large transaction sets.
• Experience conducting background research, adverse media reviews, and regulatory/licensing checks.
• Clear, precise written communication — you can distill a complex investigation into a report that's easy to act on.
• Comfortable working independently and managing multiple open cases at once in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with data analysis tools, risk platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite; experience with AI-assisted research tools is a plus.
• Bachelor's degree in business, finance, criminal justice, risk management, or a related field. CFE, CRM, or similar certification is a strong plus.

Nice to Have:

• Background in home improvement lending, contractor-funded loan programs, or merchant acquiring.
• Familiarity with Jira, case management systems, or investigation tracking platforms.
• Experience collaborating with or supporting a borrower outreach or rapid response team.
• Exposure to regulatory environments such as CFPB, state licensing frameworks, or contractor compliance requirements.

What We Offer You: 

• Competitive salary and stock option plan
• Medical, dental and vision insurance with employer paid options
• Flexible PTO
• Competitive 401(k) and RRSP program
• Opportunities for professional growth and development   
• Paid parental leave
• Health & wellness initiatives

#BI-Hybrid   #LI-Hybrid

For California residents: Upgrade's California Notice at Collection and Privacy Policy describes our practices regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of the personal information of job applicants.