Trade Finance Analyst

We are seeking a Trade Finance Operations Analyst to support a leading global banking institution. This role is responsible for supporting and enhancing Trade Finance Operations processes, with a focus on Letters of Credit and Documentary Collections. The ideal candidate will possess strong trade finance operational knowledge, analytical skills, and experience working in a highly regulated banking environment.

Location: Jersey City, NJ 
Work Arrangement: Hybrid (3 days onsite)
Duration: 6+ Month Contract
Pay Rate: $45–$50/hour

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze end-to-end Trade Finance operational processes, including Import and Export Letters of Credit and Documentary Collections, identifying opportunities for process improvements and operational efficiencies.

• Support the processing of Import and Export Letters of Credit, including issuance, advising, confirmations, settlements, and financing activities.

• Review and improve operational workflows to enhance accuracy, turnaround times, and risk controls.

• Collaborate with technology, product, and operations teams to support system enhancements and process automation initiatives.

• Participate in QA and UAT testing activities, including test case preparation, execution, documentation, and issue resolution.

• Ensure compliance with ICC rules, including UCP, URC, and ISBP, as well as internal policies and regulatory requirements.

• Maintain and update process documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and user guides.

• Support invoicing, commission processing (advance and arrears), and daily accrual activities.

• Assist in managing syndicated Letter of Credit transactions and other complex trade finance structures.

• Prepare operational reports, perform data analysis, and provide insights to support business decision-making.

• Support change management initiatives, including communication, training, and implementation of new processes and system enhancements.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.

• 3+ years of Trade Finance Operations experience.

• Strong knowledge of Import and Export Letters of Credit and Documentary Collections.

• Understanding of ICC rules, including UCP 600, URC 522, and ISBP.

• Experience with trade finance operational workflows and transaction processing.

• Familiarity with process improvement, workflow optimization, and operational controls.

• Experience participating in UAT and/or QA testing activities.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume banking environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with syndicated Letters of Credit and complex trade finance transactions.

• CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) certification.

• Experience with trade finance platforms, automation initiatives, or system implementations.

• Prior experience within a global banking or financial services organization.