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Merchant Acquiring Risk Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Risk management is a critical part of managing these important relationships, and you'll require a broad understanding of risk disciplines across merchant acquiring and banking. You'll lead ...

Own compliance for payment processing, merchant acquiring, and fintech products Ensure adherence to ... Implement risk monitoring frameworks for merchants, partners, and transactions * Collaborate with ...

... Merchant Acquiring Committee) members regarding fraudulent or high-risk merchants; share information regarding merchant processing patterns where relevant to prevent further or future losses · Daily ...

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 2+ years of merchant risk management or servicing experience in merchant processing, merchant acquiring, business banking or e-commerce. * Engage in payment ...

Our client is looking to hire a VP of Merchant Underwriting who can optimize underwriting strategy across merchant acquiring. This individual will balance growth acceleration with disciplined risk ...

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Merchant Acquiring Risk information

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$22.5K

$118.3K

$210K

How much do merchant acquiring risk jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for merchant acquiring risk in the United States is $118,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $145,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Merchant Acquiring Risk roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Merchant Acquiring Risk often encounter challenges such as detecting and preventing fraudulent activities, staying updated with evolving payment technologies, and balancing risk management with business growth objectives. Navigating regulatory requirements and integrating risk assessment tools into existing processes can also be complex. Addressing these challenges typically involves continuous training, close collaboration with IT and compliance teams, and leveraging advanced analytics to detect unusual patterns. Proactive communication with merchants and staying informed about industry trends are also key strategies for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Merchant Acquiring Risk professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Merchant Acquiring Risk professional, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of financial regulations, and experience in risk assessment, often supported by a degree in finance, business, or a related field. Familiarity with fraud detection systems, payment processing platforms, and industry certifications such as CAMS (Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist) is highly valued. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills for managing complex risk scenarios and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure the effective mitigation of financial risks, regulatory compliance, and the protection of the company's reputation in the payment ecosystem.

What is the difference between Merchant Acquiring Risk vs Payment Processing Specialist?

AspectMerchant Acquiring RiskPayment Processing Specialist
Required CredentialsRisk management certifications, finance or banking backgroundIT or technical certifications, payment systems knowledge
Work EnvironmentFinancial institutions, risk departmentsPayment service providers, tech companies
Employer & Industry UsageBanking, merchant servicesFintech, payment gateway companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding risk roles in merchant acquiringTechnical payment processing roles

Merchant Acquiring Risk professionals focus on assessing and managing risks associated with merchant accounts and transactions, ensuring compliance and minimizing fraud. Payment Processing Specialists handle the technical aspects of transaction processing, system integration, and troubleshooting. While both roles operate within the payment industry, Merchant Acquiring Risk emphasizes risk mitigation, whereas Payment Processing Specialists focus on technical operations.

What is Merchant Acquiring Risk?

Merchant Acquiring Risk refers to the potential financial and operational risks that arise when banks or payment processors provide merchant accounts to businesses, enabling them to accept credit and debit card payments. These risks include fraud, chargebacks, regulatory compliance issues, and merchant insolvency. Managing merchant acquiring risk involves assessing merchants before onboarding, monitoring transaction patterns, and implementing controls to minimize losses. Effective risk management helps ensure the security and stability of payment systems while protecting both the acquirer and their customers.
Infographic showing various Merchant Acquiring Risk job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 72% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,258 per year, or $56.9 per hour.
Merchant Risk Monitoring Investigator

Merchant Risk Monitoring Investigator

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Atlanta, GA • Hybrid

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description


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
  • 100% paid coverage of medical, dental, and vision insurance 
  • Flexible PTO
  • Competitive 401(k) and RRSP program
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development   
  • Paid parental leave
  • Health & wellness initiatives

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