Collections Specialist

A well-established University is seeking an Collections Specialist to perform extensive customer service and detailed account analysis related to student receivables.

This is a temporary three (3) months assignment, with the possibility of extension and or permanent hire based on performance.

• Performs extensive customer service and detailed account analysis related to student receivables.
• Monitors, reviews, and provides guidance on workflow completed by Accounting Clerks and Cashiers to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with institutional and State policies.
• Oversees the review and submission of aged receivable accounts to the State of Maryland Central Collection Unit (CCU) in accordance with applicable regulations and procedures.
• Contacts debtors regarding outstanding balances; communicates payment expectations, available options, and consequences of non-payment in accordance with State guidelines.
• Analyzes accounts to determine accuracy and appropriateness of charges; initiates adjustments to penalty charges and fees when warranted and properly authorized.
• Gathers and prepares required documentation to refer accounts to collection agencies or other authorized entities.
• Represents the institution as an official representative or expert witness in court proceedings to secure judgments on behalf of the institution.
• Responds to incoming correspondence, inquiries, and disputes in a timely and professional manner.
• Enters and maintains accurate data in the accounts receivable system; ensures integrity of records and maintenance of appropriate audit trails.
• Assists in ensuring compliance with applicable State, federal, and institutional financial policies and procedures.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of bookkeeping principles, accounting procedures, and financial record-keeping practices.
• Knowledge of general accounting and auditing principles and practices.
• Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures, and equipment, including proficiency in computer applications and financial/accounting systems.
• Ability to analyze financial accounts, identify discrepancies, and formulate appropriate corrective actions.
• Ability to interpret and apply agency and State policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Ability to organize work activities, prioritize assignments, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to provide functional supervision and evaluate the work of accounting-clerical staff.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, particularly in customer service and collections environments.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, initiative, and discretion when handling sensitive financial information.

Education: Degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field

Experience: Four (4) years of progressively responsible accounting-clerical experience. Three (3) years must have included bookkeeping and/or accounting responsibilities. Experience must include supervision or lead responsibility over two (2) or more accounting-clerical employees and at least two (2) years of experience in a customer service environment.

Preferred

Qualification:

Degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field. Prior Collection experience, Experience working with state of Maryland Center Collections Unit (CCU)