About this role.
CertiK is hiring a Background Investigator / KYC Investigations Analyst to deliver its identity-verification badge product for Web3 project teams. The role combines behavioral interviewing, OSINT research, document verification, risk assessment, and clear documentation supporting KYC decisions. The analyst will manage multiple client screenings, communicate badge requirements and status, and provide customer-focused support throughout the process. Candidates need at least three years of investigations, KYC, or related experience, along with knowledge of AML/CFT standards and enthusiasm for crypto. This is a remote, fast-paced startup role requiring strong independent judgment and written communication.
Role DNA
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Job Complexity
4/5Pace & Pressure
4/5Autonomy Level
4/5Communication Load
5/5Salary analysis
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Core skills
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Sample interview questions
I begin by defining the verification objectives and documenting the available identifiers. I use reputable open-source sources to corroborate identity, professional history, project involvement, and potential risk indicators, then conduct structured interviews to resolve gaps or discrepancies. I clearly distinguish verified facts, unverified claims, and remaining risks in the final case record.
I would avoid assumptions and first preserve the relevant evidence with source details and dates. I would raise the discrepancy through a neutral, fact-based follow-up question, allowing the applicant to explain or provide supporting documentation. I would document both the discrepancy and the explanation, then assess materiality against the applicable KYC and risk standards.
I use a consistent interview structure, open-ended questions, and follow-up questions that test for specificity and consistency. I focus on information relevant to identity, project roles, and risk rather than making subjective judgments about communication style. Thorough contemporaneous notes and consistent evaluation criteria help ensure decisions are defensible and fair.
I would triage cases by deadline, risk level, client impact, and dependency on external information. I would maintain a clear case tracker, identify blockers early, and communicate realistic status updates and document requirements to clients. This approach keeps urgent matters moving without compromising investigation quality.
Web3 projects can involve pseudonymous participants, cross-border activity, and rapidly changing public information, making robust identity and risk controls essential. AML/CFT knowledge helps an investigator recognize potential red flags, apply appropriate escalation procedures, and document decisions in a way that supports compliance standards. It also helps balance efficient customer service with a rigorous risk-based process.
About the Company
Founded in 2018 by professors of Yale University and Columbia University, CertiK is a pioneer in blockchain security, utilizing best-in-class AI technology to secure and monitor blockchain protocols and smart contracts. CertiK’s mission is to secure the cyber world. Starting with blockchain, CertiK applies cutting-edge innovations from academia into enterprise, enabling mission-critical applications to be built with security and correctness. CertiK is one of the fastest growing and most trusted companies in blockchain security and has become a true market leader. Our clients include leading projects such as Aave, Polygon, Binance Smart Chain, Yearn, and Chiliz. Our investors include top VCs like Tiger Global, Coatue Management, Shunwei Capital and Hillhouse Capital as well as industry leaders like Coinbase Ventures and Binance.
About the Role
As a KYC Investigations Analyst, you will deliver CertiK’s KYC badge product—the leading private identity verification service for Web3 project teams. You will conduct background interviews and investigations into project teams, diving deep to understand their transparency and risk levels. If the project team completes the screening, your work will culminate in issuing a CertiK KYC badge at an appropriate level that signifies set standards of verification.
About You
You are a skilled investigator with experience in conducting behavioral interviews while providing excellent customer service. You excel at finding critical information and analyzing it thoroughly. You communicate clearly and effectively, making it easy for others to understand your findings. You are self-motivated, detail-oriented, and can manage multiple tasks independently in a fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities
- Manage the delivery of CertiK’s KYC badge product
- Conduct interviews with project team members to assess risks and identify discrepancies
- Perform thorough investigations using open-source information with limited data
- Provide excellent customer service to clients undergoing the KYC process
- Communicate with teams about KYC badge status and requirements
- Help customers submit identification documents and verify them through systems
- Document your findings clearly to support each KYC badge decision
- Evaluate project teams for quality and risk factors
- Create content and thought leadership related to KYC and investigations in Web3
Requirements
- 3+ years of experience in investigations, KYC or a related field
- Proven experience conducting complex behavioral interviews
- Fluent in English
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Experience performing OSINT investigations
- Familiar with Web3 social media platforms, especially X/Twitter
- Understanding of KYC regulations, AML/CFT laws, and compliance standards
- Highly organized and self-driven, able to work independently
- Comfortable in a fast-paced startup environment
- Able to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks effectively
- Passionate about crypto and eager to learn about new projects
Compensation
Additional Information
Target annual salary for this role performed is $60,000 – $100,000. The exact compensation at which this job is filled will be determined by the skills and experience of qualified candidates.
CertiK accepts applications for this position on an ongoing basis.
CertiK is proud to offer medical, vision, and dental insurance, 401(k) plan with company matching, life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance, HSA (with high deductible plan), FSA, and other benefits to all full-time employees, along with flexible paid time off and holidays. CertiK also offers a variable commission program for business development sales roles.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
CertiK is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of age, race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, medical condition, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status or civil partnership/union status, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, childbirth, genetic information, military and veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by applicable federal, state or local law.
CertiK will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with local and federal requirements.
https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/migrated_files/employers/poster_screen_reader_optimized.pdf
All CertiK employees are expected to actively support diversity on their teams, and in the Company.
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