Check Processing Specialist

OUR LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY

At Lighthouse Credit Union, we believe all individuals, regardless of position level, are considered leaders. By providing a framework that balances clarity with adaptability, our Leadership Competencies aim to foster a culture of continuous growth and agile leadership. Lighthouse Credit Union is committed to embracing change, nurturing leadership talent, and ensuring our performance management practices are aligned with our vision of fostering a resilient and forward-thinking organization. As such, we all hold ourselves accountable to the following:

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES

Demonstrates Interpersonal Awareness & Skills

A cornerstone of our collaborative work environment, this competency emphasizes effective communication, relationship building and teamwork. It also supports creating a positive work environment that values individual contributions and fosters teamwork. As an individual leader, you will demonstrate active listening, clear communication and contribute beneficially to team dynamics.

Embraces Change & Learning

This competency focuses on adaptability, personal development and the advocacy and embracing of progressive change. You will be challenged to explore continuous learning opportunities to achieve excellence and foster a culture of growth and innovation. As an individual leader, you will actively engage in personal development, embrace change enthusiastically and support team members in their growth. You will also demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in response to changing circumstances.

Utilizes Critical & Creative Thinking

Underlining the importance of innovative problem solving, challenging the status quo and strategic thinking, this competency is vital for driving excellence and leadership. This competency challenges team members to take initiative beyond one’s immediate responsibilities. As an individual leader, you will actively look for and share opportunities for improvement, show open-mindedness to new ideas and professionally challenge inefficient processes. You will also actively contribute to defining solutions and promoting innovation.

Takes Personal Ownership

This competency focuses on taking responsibility for performance goals, proactive collaboration and accountability. It highlights the significance of each team member taking ownership of their role and contributions while demonstrating leadership qualities regardless of their position. As an individual leader, you will be actively engaged in setting and achieving performance goals, take responsibility for personal action and decisions and seek opportunities for self-improvement and skill development.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Check Processing Specialist is responsible for managing all functions related to daily item processing. This includes handling share draft processing, mobile and remote deposit transactions, ATM and ITM adjustments, and the review and resolution of returned checks. The Check Processing Specialist also oversees the processing of mailed payments and coordinates both incoming and outgoing mail to ensure accurate and efficient payment processing. This role works closely with multiple departments to maintain operational accuracy, regulatory compliance, and timely member-service.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

Check & Deposit Processing
• Downloads, edits, and posts daily Share Draft files from Synergent, including posting credits and debits generated from exception reports.
• Reviews and processes ATM and ITM check deposits, adjustments, and related exceptions.
• Reviews and processes Remote Deposit Capture (RDC) checks.
• Reviews and processes stop-payment requests.
• Processes share drafts for the Credit Union.
• Evaluates and processes adjustments related to shared branching and retail errors.

Returned Item & Adjustment Processing
• Processes all daily returned checks received from the Federal Reserve and issue appropriate member notifications.
• Processes incoming check adjustments from the Federal Reserve and Synergent.
• Processes Federal Reserve returned checks and evaluate return reasons (NSF, uncollected funds, account not found, stop payments, etc.).
• Processes CUNA rebates and share draft stop payments.

Mail & Member Transaction Support
• Processes all incoming mail payments and miscellaneous member requests.
• Supports member financial transactions received by mail or electronic files, including deposits, withdrawals, and loan payments handled by Payment Processing Specialists.

Accounting & Variance Support
• Researches and assists the Finance & Accounting department with variances related to check clearing, share draft processing, and general ledger reclamation.
• Balances exceptions and ensure accuracy of all returned or adjusted items.

Communication & Collaboration
• Communicates regularly with vendors and internal colleagues to resolve issues and ensure smooth processing.
• Maintains strong awareness of regulatory and procedural changes affecting check processing and payment operations.

Training, Compliance & Additional Duties
• Completes required training, certifications, and departmental learning modules.
• Supports third-party vendor management activities.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned. • Follows and adheres to the Credit Union’s policy regarding attendance and punctuality.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with financial regulations, including Regulation E, and the ability to apply them appropriately in daily operations.
• Technical Proficiency: Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and the ability to navigate core systems and processing platforms efficiently.
• Communication Skills: Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication abilities, along with a courteous and professional demeanor when interacting with members and colleagues.
• Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify issues, determine root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Organization & Attention to Detail: Highly organized with strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy in all processing tasks and documentation.
• Collaboration: Maintains frequent and effective interaction with employees across multiple departments to support smooth operations and prompt issue resolution.

EDUCATION, TRAINING & EXPERIENCE
• High school diploma or equivalent
• 1 to 3 years of similar or related work experience
• Previous financial experience or share draft processing preferred

WORK ARRANGEMENT:

The working arrangement for this position is hybrid. Hybrid work is an opportunity to find the right balance between working in the office and remotely, especially if it supports individual success and the needs of our organization. Hybrid schedules are determined by the hiring manager based on business unit needs and may vary by department.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to walk, stand, sit, speak, read, write, see, hear, push or pull (with or without accommodation).
• Frequently remains sitting in a stationary position for extended periods of time operating office/computer equipment.
• Occasionally lifts and/or moves up to 20 pounds.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
Travel will be required for ongoing training, meetings and/or other business needs.

Back Office Benefits That Work for You

We know life doesn’t pause when you’re at work — and your benefits shouldn’t either. At Lighthouse Credit Union, we offer real support for real life, with perks that help you stay healthy, grow your future, and take care of what matters most.

Financial Relief & Support

· Student Loan & Tuition Assistance – Whether you're paying off debt or going back to school, we help lighten the load.

· Employee Loan Discounts – Get access to lower rates on personal loans, just for being part of the team.

· Weekly Paychecks – Because waiting two weeks shouldn’t be the norm.

· 401(k) with Employer Match & Profit Sharing – We invest in your future with generous contributions and immediate vesting.

Time Off That Respects Your Life

· Lighthouse Leave Program – Paid time off for major life moments, from welcoming a child to caring for a loved one.

· Volunteer Time Off (VTO) – Give back to your community with paid time to serve.

· PTO + Paid Federal Holidays – Rest, recharge, and celebrate without worry.

· Balanced Schedule – All branches close by 5pm and on Sundays — no late nights or unpredictable shifts.

Health & Wellness

· Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Plans – Coverage that starts quickly and fits your needs.

· HSA/FSA Options – Save pre-tax dollars for everyday health expenses.

· Discounted Pet Insurance – Because furry family members deserve care too.

· Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential support for life’s challenges — available 24/7.

Culture & Connection

· Annual Bonus Program – Celebrate your wins, your teammates’ successes, and the Credit Union’s growth — together.

· Engagement Groups – Join communities like Pride at Work, Women in Leadership, Book Club, and more.

· Ongoing Training & Career Growth – We invest in your development from day one.

· Annual Summit & Team Outings – Celebrate wins and connect with coworkers across the organization.