Operations Specialist

Job Description

Job Title: Direct Mutual Fund Specialist

Job Summary

At HilltopSecurities, we are committed to building meaningful, collaborative relationships that enhance the financial future of individuals, businesses, and communities. Through a comprehensive suite of investment banking and financial services, we support our clients in achieving their unique goals. As a subsidiary of Hilltop Holdings, alongside PlainsCapital Bank and PrimeLending, we offer the financial strength, stability, and nationwide presence of over 400 locations across 44 states, providing employees with significant opportunities for career growth within a diverse and relationship-driven organization.

The Operations group encompasses multiple functional areas responsible for all post-account opening and post-trade activities. These responsibilities include account onboarding and maintenance, asset movement, and the accurate processing of securities transactions. The team works closely with financial advisors, branch offices, transfer agents, and mutual fund companies to ensure efficient and compliant operations.

HilltopSecurities is currently looking to hire a Direct Mutual Fund Specialist within our Operations group in Dallas, Texas. This role is an entry-level position supporting the firm's mutual fund direct business within Operations. This position focuses on transaction processing, account maintenance, and reconciliation activities, with an emphasis on accuracy, completeness, and timeliness.
Direct Mutual Fund Specialist role is an entry-level position supporting the firm's mutual fund direct business within Operations. This position focuses on transaction processing, account maintenance, and reconciliation activities, with an emphasis on accuracy, completeness, and timeliness.

This role is designed as a foundational opportunity within Operations and includes structured cross-training across multiple functional areas. The candidate will develop a broad understanding of brokerage operations, build technical and industry knowledge, and gain the experience necessary to support continued professional growth and advancement within the organization.

Essential Functions

• Interact with mutual fund companies, transfer agents, and recordkeepers to facilitate transaction and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Maintain and update client account information, including new account setup and ongoing data integrity.
• Assist with onboarding and integration of direct mutual fund assets into internal systems.
• Provide operational support to financial advisors by responding to mutual fund-related inquiries and requests.
• Review, prepare, and complete departmental reports to support business and compliance requirements.
• Perform account reconciliations within the mutual fund system to ensure accuracy and completeness of records.
• Create, maintain, and enhance reports using Microsoft Excel to support operational oversight and analysis.
• Participate in cross-training initiatives across multiple operational functions to expand knowledge and capabilities.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience.
• 0-2 years of experience in financial services operations, securities processing, or a related field.
• Basic understanding of financial markets and security industry terminology.
• Familiarity with open-end mutual fund products is preferred but not required.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to reconcile and analyze data accurately.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word, and Outlook; experience with back-office systems is a plus.
• Demonstrated customer service orientation with effective interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment while maintaining a positive attitude in high-volume and time-sensitive situations.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including overtime, based on business needs.
• Pass the FINRA Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam within six (6) months of hire; the firm will provide support and resources to assist with preparation.

About Us

At HilltopSecurities, we believe in building noble and collaborative relationships that enrich the financial future of individuals, businesses and communities. With an extensive portfolio of products, we deliver a broad range of investment banking and related financial services that help our clients achieve their definition of success. As a subsidiary of HilltopHoldings, which also encompasses PlainsCapital Bank, and PrimeLending, we have the financial strength and stability that has withstood the test of time. Our nationwide presence in 400 locations across 44 states provides our associates with extensive opportunities to grow their careers in a diverse organization that truly values relationship capital above all else.

About the Team

The Operations department's work is vital to the functionality and success of HilltopSecurities. The department provides back-office support and service for the entire firm. With well over 100 employees ranging from specialists to senior managers, each individual plays a specific role in the overarching operation of the company. Operations' areas of focus include clearance, settlement, unit investment trusts, government and mortgage-backed securities, money market instruments, and OTC derivates. Our Operations professionals also manage transactions between mutual funds and insurance carriers and their respective investors. As a part of Operations, you are expected to provide high quality customer service, doing your best to make sure our clients succeed, and keeping their best interests as your highest priority. We value all of our team members, and your commitment to our firm will have a significant impact on the way we operate. We encourage all Operations employees to obtain FINRA licenses and support them in this endeavor. We also provide additional professional development resources to help advance our team members' careers. In the Operations department, you will be surrounded by people who are passionate about HilltopSecurities and upholding our reputation as a leading municipal investment bank.