Authentication Specialist

A globally leading consumer device company is looking for an Authentication Specialist to optimize its 3D Secure (3DS) Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) funnel. In this role, you will deeply analyze the end-to-end 3DS SCA authentication flow, identify points of friction and failure, and implement solutions to recover lost revenue and reduce customer abandonment. You will work closely with analytics and engineering teams, dissect technical specifications, and translate complex data into actionable insights to improve authentication success rates and enhance the overall customer experience.
Key Responsibilities:
End-to-End Funnel Mapping & Analysis:
o Collaborate extensively with our analytics and engineering teams to meticulously map every stage of the 3DS SCA authentication funnel, from initial transaction request to final authorization.
o Investigate and pinpoint the root causes for critical issues such as:
o Failure to initiate 3DS authentication for eligible transactions.
o Failure to submit authorization requests after a successful 3DS authentication.
3DS SCA Specification Deep Dive & Data Gap Analysis:
o Conduct a thorough and detailed review of the EMV 3-D Secure Specification to understand all available data elements, status codes, and error codes.
o Determine what critical information, as defined by the 3DS spec, is currently missing or underutilized within our analytics funnel. For example, investigate how to leverage granular data from our 3DS Server provider (e.g., CardinalCommerce), such as indicators of cardholder cancellation during a challenge flow (e.g., the cardholderCancelled)
Data Integration & Enhancement Recommendations:
o Propose and define requirements for integrating newly identified, high-value data points into our analytics platform and reporting dashboards.
o Work closely with engineering to ensure accurate and comprehensive data capture, enabling full visibility into the authentication journey.
Performance Monitoring & Strategic Insights:
o Define key performance indicators (KPIs) and establish robust monitoring mechanisms to track the health and efficiency of the authentication funnel.
o Provide data-driven recommendations and strategic insights to optimize authentication flows, improve step-up rates, and minimize drop-offs, ultimately leading to significant revenue recovery.
Key Deliverables:

A comprehensive, documented map of the current 3DS SCA authentication funnel, clearly highlighting all drop-off points and identified failure modes.
A detailed report outlining critical 3DS specification data points currently missing from our analytics and their potential value for business insights.
A prioritized list of recommendations for data capture and integration enhancements.
In-depth analysis of specific failure scenarios (e.g., reasons for 3DS initiation failure, post-authentication authorization declines).
An actionable optimization plan aimed at improving 3DS step-up rates and reducing funnel abandonment.
Qualifications:
Deep 3DS SCA Expertise: Extensive hands-on experience and a thorough understanding of EMV 3-D Secure (3DS) specifications, including frictionless and challenge flows, data elements, message types, and the implications for Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) under regulations like PSD2.
Exceptional Analytical Skills: Proven ability to perform deep-dive data analysis, identify trends, draw robust conclusions, and translate findings into actionable strategies. Experience with funnel analysis is essential.
Technical Acumen: Demonstrated ability to read, interpret, and apply complex technical specifications (e.g., payment protocols, API documentation) to real-world problems.
Problem-Solving Mindset: Proactive, detail-oriented, and resourceful in identifying and solving complex technical and business challenges.
Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Type: Contract
Duration: 12 months with extension
Work Location: Cupertino, CA (100% on site)
Pay rate: $71.00 - $86.00 (DOE)