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Principal Investigator, NCP - All FINRA Locations

FINRA’s National Cause Program (NCP) is charged with the investigation of cause matters involving potential fraud or other serious misconduct from various sources, including regulatory filings, investor complaints, tips, referrals, and other regulatory sources. The Principal Investigator, NCP, is responsible for (1) conducting extensive background searches of FINRA member firms and registered representatives in support of open FINRA investigations in the NCP; (2) providing subject matter expertise throughout the course of Cause investigations, in proactively identifying risk using various internal and external systems; and (3) providing an advanced level of in-depth data analysis for NCP investigations with respect to conducting reviews and subsequently providing a high-level summary of their investigative findings and suggested next steps.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Independently leads investigations of varying risk and complexity
  • Gathers regulatory intelligence using internal systems and 8210 record requests
  • Requests and compiles, analyzes, assesses, and evaluates records
  • Prepares for and participates in On-The-Record interviews 
  • Independently conducts and facilitates interviews of relevant parties 
  • Identifies exceptions, observations, and other findings and proactively escalates potential formal issues to management.
  • Identifies and memorializes the facts and evidence needed to support recommended dispositions, and collaborates with Enforcement to develop cases, as needed
  • Independently analyzes and evaluates firm records (financial statements, purchase and sales blotters, correspondence, etc.)  and systems (order management systems, supervisory alert systems, etc.)
  • Assists in identifying notable and emerging trends  related to Firm Groupings/Sub-Groupings or FINRA initiatives and escalates to management.
  • Trains and mentors junior staff and new hires
  • Participates in special projects, as assigned
  • Independently analyzes and evaluates firm records (financial statements, purchase and sales blotters, correspondence, etc.)  and systems (order management systems, supervisory alert systems, etc.)

Education/Experience Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant experience, required. Advanced degree or law degree, preferred.
  • Advanced knowledge of relevant FINRA rules and the federal securities laws and demonstrated investigative experience.
  • Advanced knowledge of the securities markets and member firm operations and its books and records.
  • Advanced written and verbal communications skills.
  • Advanced ability to initiate and complete high quality reviews and investigations, including an ability to work quickly on multiple time-sensitive matters.
  • Advanced organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Advanced proficiency using computer programs with the full suite of Office software applications.
  • Effective at building and managing relationships.

For work that is performed in CA, CO, HI, MN, VT, IL, Jersey City, NJ, New York City, NY, MA, WA, MD, Washington, DC, NJ State and NY State, please refer to the chart below for the salary range for the corresponding location. In addition to location, actual compensation is based on various factors, including but not limited to, the candidate’s skill set, level of experience, education, and internal peer compensation comparisons.

CA: Minimum Salary $109,600, Maximum Salary $206,200

CO/HI/MN/VT*: Minimum Salary $95,300, Maximum Salary $171,800

IL*: Minimum Salary $104,900, Maximum Salary $189,400

Jersey City, NJ/NYC, NY: Minimum Salary $114,300, Maximum Salary $206,200

MA/WA: Minimum Salary $95,300, Maximum Salary $197,600

MD/Washington, DC: Minimum Salary $109,600 Maximum Salary $197,600

NJ State: Minimum Salary $104,900, Maximum $206,200

NY State: Minimum Salary $95,300, Maximum Salary $206,200

*Including positions performed outside the state but reporting to an office or manager in that state.

Candidates can expect salary offers that range from the minimum to the mid-point of the salary range. FINRA provides full pay ranges so that the candidate can consider their growth potential while at FINRA.

#LI-Hybrid

To be considered for this position, please submit an application. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

The information provided above has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work of the position. It is not a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required.

Please note: If the “Apply Now” button on a job board posting does not take you directly to the FINRA Careers site, enter www.finra.org/careers into your browser to reach our site directly.

FINRA strives to make our career site accessible to all users. If you need a disability-related accommodation for completing the application process, please contact FINRA's Employee Relations team at 240.386.4865 or by email at EmployeeRelations@finra.org. Please note that this process is exclusively for inquiries regarding application accommodations. 

Employees may be eligible for a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Non-exempt employees are also eligible for overtime pay in accordance with federal, state, or local law. As part of its dedication to employee wellness, FINRA provides comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance. Additional insurance includes basic life, accidental death and dismemberment, supplemental life, spouse/domestic partner and dependent life, and spouse/domestic partner and dependent accidental death and dismemberment, short- and long-term disability, long-term care, business travel accident, disability and legal. FINRA offers immediate participation and vesting in a 401(k) plan with company match and eligibility for participation in an additional FINRA-funded retirement contribution, tuition reimbursement, commuter benefits, and other benefits that support employee wellness, such as adoption assistance, backup family care, surrogacy benefits, employee assistance, and wellness programs.

Time Off and Paid Leave*

FINRA encourages its employees to focus on their health and wellness in many ways, including through a generous time-off program of 15 days of paid time off, 5 personal days and 9 sick days, unless otherwise required by law (all pro-rated in the first year). Additionally, we are proud to support our communities by providing two volunteer service days (based on full-time schedule). Other paid leave includes military leave, jury duty leave, bereavement leave, voting and election official leave for federal, state or local primary and general elections, care of a family member leave (available after 90 days of employment); and childbirth and parental leave (available after 90 days of employment). Full-time employees receive nine paid holidays.

*Based on full-time schedule

Important Information

FINRA’s Code of Conduct imposes restrictions on employees’ investments and requires financial disclosures that are uniquely related to our role as a securities regulator. FINRA employees are required to disclose to FINRA all brokerage accounts that they maintain, and those in which they control trading or have a financial interest (including any trust account of which they are a trustee or beneficiary and all accounts of a spouse, domestic partner or minor child who lives with the employee) and to authorize their broker-dealers to provide FINRA with duplicate statements for all of those accounts. All of those accounts are subject to the Code’s investment and securities account restrictions, and new employees must comply with those investment restrictions—including disposing of any security issued by a company on FINRA’s Prohibited Company List or obtaining a written waiver from their Executive Vice President—by the date they begin employment with FINRA. Employees may only maintain securities accounts that must be disclosed to FINRA at one or more securities firms that provide an electronic feed (e-feed) of data to FINRA, and must move securities accounts from other securities firms to a firm that provides an e-feed within three months of beginning employment.

You can read more about these restrictions here.

As standard practice, employees must also execute FINRA’s Employee Confidentiality and Invention Assignment Agreement without qualification or modification and comply with the company’s policy on nepotism.

Search Firm Representatives

Please be advised that FINRA is not seeking assistance or accepting unsolicited resumes from search firms for this employment opportunity. Regardless of past practice, a valid written agreement and task order must be in place before any resumes are submitted to FINRA. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at FINRA without a valid written agreement and task order in place will be deemed the sole property of FINRA and no fee will be paid in the event that person is hired by FINRA.

FINRA strives to make our career site accessible to all users. If you need a disability-related accommodation for completing the application process, please contact FINRA's Employee Relations team at 240.386.4865 or by email at EmployeeRelations@finra.org. Please note that this process is exclusively for inquiries regarding application accommodations.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, citizenship status, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws.

FINRA abides by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.

FINRA abides by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.

©2025 FINRA. All rights reserved. FINRA is a registered trademark of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc.

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$109600K
$197600K

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What You Should Know About Principal Investigator, NCP - All FINRA Locations, FINRA

Are you ready to make a difference in financial regulation? Join FINRA as a Principal Investigator in our National Cause Program (NCP) at our Rockville, MD location! In this role, you’ll lead efforts to investigate serious misconduct like fraud, using a wide array of sources including regulatory filings and investor tips. Your expertise will guide you as you conduct comprehensive background searches and analyze firm records—ensuring we stay at the forefront of investigative rigor. You'll work on risk assessment, produce high-level summaries of your findings, and suggest actionable next steps. Collaborating with management and mentoring junior staff are just a few of the rewarding aspects of this job. With a Bachelor’s degree required (and an advanced degree preferred), you’re expected to have deep knowledge of FINRA rules and federal securities laws. Excellent communication skills and the ability to handle multiple projects quickly will be essential as you prepare for interviews and gather intelligence that drives investigations. You’ll also benefit from a generous salary range based on your experience and education along with competitive benefits, including health insurance and a 401(k) plan. If you’re passionate about ensuring compliance and enhancing investor protection, apply to be a vital part of our team today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Principal Investigator, NCP - All FINRA Locations Role at FINRA
What responsibilities does the Principal Investigator at FINRA have?

As a Principal Investigator at FINRA, you'll lead investigations into serious misconduct such as potential fraud. This involves conducting extensive background searches, gathering regulatory intelligence, and analyzing records to prepare for On-The-Record interviews. You'll be required to identify exceptions and escalate findings while collaborating with management to develop comprehensive cases.

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What qualifications are needed for the Principal Investigator role at FINRA?

To qualify for the Principal Investigator position at FINRA, you need at least a Bachelor’s degree, with an advanced degree preferred. Extensive knowledge of FINRA rules and federal securities laws, along with significant investigative experience, is essential. Strong analytical skills and advanced communication abilities are also crucial to excel in this role.

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How does the Principal Investigator ensure compliance with FINRA regulations?

The Principal Investigator at FINRA ensures compliance by thoroughly analyzing firm records, reviewing financial statements, and evaluating operational systems. This role also involves staying updated on regulatory changes and emerging trends that could impact compliance, allowing for proactive identification and mitigation of potential risks.

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What can I expect in terms of compensation as a Principal Investigator at FINRA?

Compensation for the Principal Investigator at FINRA varies based on experience and education. In locations such as Rockville, MD, salary ranges from $109,600 to $197,600. FINRA also offers a robust benefits package including health coverage, paid time off, and a 401(k) plan with a company match.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What opportunities for career growth exist for a Principal Investigator at FINRA?

As a Principal Investigator at FINRA, you have numerous opportunities for career growth. You can advance to senior roles within regulatory investigations or take on more specialized investigative projects. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to mentor junior staff, which enhances your leadership skills and prepares you for higher responsibilities.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Principal Investigator, NCP - All FINRA Locations
Can you describe your experience with conducting investigations in the financial sector?

In responding to this question, focus on specific investigations you've led, detailing the techniques used for gathering evidence and how you approached risk assessment. Highlight any collaboration with regulatory bodies, emphasizing your ability to manage multiple investigations simultaneously.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you approach analyzing complex financial data?

When answering this question, emphasize your analytical skills and methodologies. Discuss your experience with various financial records and software, outlining how you derive insights that contribute to investigations. Providing a specific example can showcase your capability.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What steps do you take when you discover discrepancies during an investigation?

Outline your investigative process, focusing on how you document findings and escalate issues to management. Talk about the importance of fact-checking and compiling evidence before making recommendations for further action.

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How do you ensure effective communication during an investigation?

Discuss your strategies for clear communication, including regular updates to stakeholders and fostering relationships with team members. Mention your use of various tools and methods for maintaining transparency throughout the investigation process.

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Describe a challenging investigation you managed and how you handled it.

Choose a specific example that showcases your problem-solving ability. Highlight the unique challenges you faced and describe the steps you took to overcome obstacles, emphasizing teamwork and strategic thinking.

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What methods do you use to mentor junior investigators?

Share your philosophy on mentorship, focusing on hands-on training, providing constructive feedback, and fostering an environment where questions are encouraged. Discuss specific instances where your mentorship has led to the professional growth of others.

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How do you stay updated on changes in FINRA regulations?

Discuss the resources you utilize, such as regulatory updates, industry conferences, and professional networking. Emphasize your commitment to continuous learning and adapting to changes that affect your work as a Principal Investigator.

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How would you handle conflicting priorities in a fast-paced environment?

Illustrate your time management skills and ability to prioritize tasks. Talk about specific methods you use, such as creating lists or utilizing software, and provide an example of a situation where you successfully juggled multiple investigations.

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What role does teamwork play in your investigative process?

Highlight the importance of collaboration in investigations. Discuss how you engage with your team, pool expertise for more complex cases, and ensure that all voices are heard to enhance the quality of the investigation.

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What do you believe is the most significant factor in a successful investigation?

Deliver your perspective on thoroughness and attention to detail as key factors. Back up your assertion with examples or case studies where meticulous investigation positively influenced the outcomes.

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FINRA is dedicated to protecting investors and safeguarding market integrity in a manner that facilitates vibrant capital markets.

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DATE POSTED
April 20, 2025

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