Risk Model Validation Associate – Auto Finance

Santander is a global leader and innovator in the financial services industry and is evolving from a high-impact brand into a technology-driven organization. Our people are at the heart of this journey and together, we are driving a customer-centric transformation that values bold thinking, innovation, and the courage to challenge what’s possible.  This is more than a strategic shift.  It’s a chance for driven professionals to grow, learn, and make a real difference.

If you are interested in exploring the possibilities We Want to Talk to You!

The Difference You Make:
The Risk Model Validation Associate will conduct independent validation of models used in alignment with SR 11-7, US supervisory guidance, and internal model risk standards. This role is responsible for delivering robust model validations, effective challenge, and governance support across a wide variety of models while helping ensure transparent remediation and ongoing model health.

Position Summary

• Evaluate model assumptions, limitations, and weaknesses, and document validation results with clear recommendations to address identified issues.

• Conduct robust validations of a wide variety of models against established standards, including benchmark, challenger, and replication models where applicable.

• Partner with model owners and developers to understand the business context for model use, provide technical guidance, and strengthen the model development and validation process.

• Manage remediation of validation findings with model owners and developers to support timely and effective resolution.

• Monitor ongoing model performance, assess overall model health, and support annual reviews and related governance responsibilities.

What You Bring:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Statistics, Economics, Mathematics, or another relevant field of study, or equivalent demonstrated through a combination of work experience, training, military service, or education – Required.

• Master's Degree or PhD in Statistics, Economics, Mathematics, or another relevant field of study, or equivalent demonstrated through a combination of work experience, training, military service, or education – Preferred.

Professional Experience

• 5+ years of experience in model development and/or validation – Required.

• Experience with scorecard or loss provisioning models – Preferred.

Skills

• Advanced quantitative skills.

• Demonstrated practical modeling experience.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

• Strong project management skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to analyze risk and design efficient control practices to minimize risk.

• Ability to lead, influence, and direct peers, subordinates, and management.

• Ability to build and foster internal relationships.

• Ability to multitask and meet strict deadlines.

• Ability to adapt to new developments and changing circumstances.

• Ability to convey a sense of urgency and drive.

• Detail-oriented with the ability to also understand overall strategy.

Certifications:
No Certifications listed for this job.

It Would Be Nice For You To Have:
Established work history or equivalent demonstrated through a combination of work experience, training, military service, or education.

Work Authorization & Sponsorship:
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without requiring employer sponsorship to commence employment.

What Else You Need To Know:

The base pay range for this position is posted below and represents the annualized salary range. For hourly positions (non-exempt), the annual range is based on a 40-hour work week. The exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, training, licensure and certifications and location.

Base Pay Range:

Minimum:

We Value Your Impact:

Your contribution matters and it’s recognized.  You can expect a fair and competitive rewards package that reflects the impact you create and the value you deliver. We know rewards go beyond numbers.  Offering more than just a paycheck our benefits are designed to support you, your family and your well-being, now and into the future.Santander Benefits - 2026 Santander OnGoing/NH eGuide (foleon.com) 

Risk Culture:

We embrace a strong risk culture and all of our professionals at all levels are expected to take a proactive and responsible approach toward risk management.

EEO Statement:

At Santander, we value and respect differences in our workforce. We actively encourage everyone to apply. Santander is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Working Conditions:

Frequent minimal physical effort such as sitting, standing and walking is required for this role. Depending on location, occasional moving and lifting light equipment and/or furniture may be required.

Employer Rights:

This job description does not list all of the job duties of the job. You may be asked by your supervisors or managers to perform other duties. You may be evaluated in part based upon your performance of the tasks listed in this job description. The employer has the right to revise this job description at any time. This job description is not a contract for employment and either you or the employer may terminate your employment at any time for any reason.

What To Do Next:

If this sounds like a role you are interested in, then please apply.

We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible application process for all candidates. If you require any assistance or accommodation due to a disability or any other reason, please contact us at TAOps@santander.us to discuss your needs.