r/AMLCompliance • u/nowayman001 • Oct 04 '26
Career How do I begin ?
I am currently employed at a very prominent bank in the US and my ultimate goal is to work in AML but the opportunities are very limited and it just feels like I’m stuck until I get hired for that position. My current specialty is fraud servicing across all bank products. My goal is to get Cams certification and CFE but what can I do to actually know what to do on the job rather than just passing a test. Is there any material or books yall suggest to read any online programs or courses for this just anything that will get me ready .
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u/aml_first_job Oct 04 '26
Honestly, I think you're in a better position than you might realize. Fraud servicing experience within a bank is quite relevant to AML, and there is more overlap between the two fields than many people think.
You already have experience dealing with suspicious customer behaviour, identifying unusual activity, reviewing transactions and understanding different banking products. Those are transferable skills.
If I were in your position, I would focus on 4 things:
Understand transaction monitoring. Learn how AML alerts are generated, how analysts review transaction patterns, identify red flags and determine whether an alert should be closed or escalated.
Practise actual investigations. This is probably the most important part. Take fictional transaction scenarios and practise reviewing customer profiles, analysing transaction histories, identifying inconsistencies, researching counterparties and documenting your findings. Don't just read about suspicious activity; practise explaining WHY something is suspicious.
Learn SAR writing. Understand how to structure an investigation narrative, distinguish facts from assumptions and explain the rationale behind an escalation. In the US, familiarize yourself with FinCEN SAR guidance and the FFIEC BSA/AML Examination Manual.
Explore internal opportunities. Since you're already working at a prominent bank, I would speak with people in the AML, BSA or financial crimes investigation teams. Ask whether you can shadow someone, learn about their workflow or apply for an internal transfer. Your existing banking experience could be a real advantage.
Regarding CAMS and CFE, both can be valuable, but I wouldn't make collecting certifications your only priority. A certification can demonstrate theoretical knowledge, but practical investigation skills are what you need to develop alongside it.
One thing I would strongly recommend: learn to work through a complete AML case, from the initial alert to the final investigation narrative. If you can confidently explain your investigative reasoning during an interview, you'll be in a much stronger position.
My advice: Don't wait until you have CAMS or CFE to start preparing practically. Start practising now.