Senior AML Analyst, Sanctions
About the position Circle is building the foundation of a more open, global economy through digital assets, payment applications, and programmable blockchain infrastructure. As a Senior AML Analyst, Sanctions, you will play a critical role in safeguarding Circle’s platform by executing and enhancing sanctions compliance processes across customers, transactions, and counterparties. You will own the end-to-end lifecycle of sanctions, PEP, and adverse media reviews, applying regulatory frameworks and internal policies to assess risk, make informed decisions, and ensure accurate documentation and escalation. This role requires strong analytical judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-growth environment while contributing to continuous improvement initiatives within Compliance Operations.
Responsibilities
- Review and investigate escalated sanctions, PEP, and adverse media alerts and recommend appropriate dispositions
- Assess general and specific sanctions licenses (e.g., OFAC) to determine transaction permissibility
- Maintain and validate sanctions screening data, including list updates across multiple jurisdictions
- Conduct sanctions screening on customers, counterparties, vendors, and employees
- Perform testing, tuning, and optimization of screening systems to improve effectiveness and reduce false positives
- Partner with Compliance, KYC, and cross-functional teams to support investigations and coordinate information requests
- Leverage data, automation, and AI tools to enhance screening processes and operational efficiency
Requirements
- 4+ years of experience in sanctions screening or financial crime compliance within a financial institution
- Strong knowledge of global sanctions frameworks including OFAC, HMT, EU, and UN
- Hands-on experience reviewing and applying sanctions licenses to transaction scenarios
- Experience with screening systems such as LexisNexis Bridger, Fircosoft, or Thomson Reuters
- Ability to analyze large datasets efficiently; familiarity with SQL or similar tools
- Working knowledge of payment systems including wires, ACH, cards, and cryptocurrency transactions
Nice-to-haves
- Experience in fintech or high-growth environments
- Familiarity with AI, automation tools, or basic scripting to improve workflows
- Professional certifications such as CAMS, CFCS, or CGSS
Benefits
- Base Pay Range: $97,500 - $127,500