Accounts Receivable Collections Specialist

Location: Aurora

Job Type

Full-time

Description

Accounts Receivable Clerk

An Accounts Receivable (A/R) Collections Specialist focuses on managing incoming payments, following up on overdue accounts, and maintaining healthy cash flow for a business. This role plays a critical part in supporting the organization's financial stability and ensuring consistent revenue collection. Here's a clear, practical job description you can use or adapt.

Overview
The AR Collections Specialist is responsible for monitoring customer accounts, ensuring timely payment of invoices, and resolving billing issues in a professional and efficient manner. This role works closely with customers and internal teams to reduce outstanding balances, improve collection cycles, and minimize financial risk to the organization. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to maintain positive customer relationships while enforcing company policies.

Job Responsibilities:

• Monitor accounts to identify overdue payments and high-risk accounts, utilizing reporting tools and aging schedules to prioritize collection efforts
• Contact customers via phone, email, or written correspondence to collect outstanding balances while maintaining a professional and customer-focused approach
• Negotiate payment plans and settlements when necessary, ensuring alignment with company policies and financial objectives
• Investigate and resolve billing discrepancies or disputes by collaborating with internal departments and reviewing account details thoroughly
• Maintain accurate records of collection activities and customer interactions within the company's systems to ensure proper documentation and audit readiness
• Prepare aging reports and provide regular updates to management on collection status, trends, and potential risks
• Collaborate with sales, customer service, and accounting teams to resolve account issues and improve overall customer satisfaction
• Ensure compliance with company policies and relevant regulations governing collections and financial practices
• Recommend accounts for escalation or write-off when appropriate, based on established criteria and management guidance

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience), demonstrating a foundational understanding of financial processes
• 1-3+ years of experience in accounts receivable or collections, preferably within a fast-paced or high-volume environment
• Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to effectively engage with customers and internal stakeholders
• High attention to detail and strong organizational abilities, with the capacity to manage multiple accounts simultaneously
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Sage, Quick Books, SAP, or similar systems), including data entry, reporting, and account reconciliation
• Ability to handle difficult conversations professionally while maintaining composure and a solutions-oriented mindset
• Basic understanding of accounting principles, including accounts receivable processes and general ledger impact
• Education:
  
  Degree preferred in Business, Accounting, or a related field, but substantial and relevant experience is considered adequate

Education: Degree preferred in Business, Accounting or related field but substantial experience is adequate

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in B2B collections, with an understanding of commercial credit practices and customer account management
• Familiarity with ERP systems and integrated financial platforms used for tracking and reporting receivables
• Knowledge of relevant financial regulations and compliance standards, including best practices for collections and documentation

Work Environment

• Typically, office-based or remote, depending on business needs and organizational structure
• May involve high call and email volume, requiring strong time management and communication skills
• Deadline-driven environment, especially during month-end or quarter-end close periods, requiring the ability to prioritize tasks effectively

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in B2B collections
• Familiarity with ERP systems
• Knowledge of relevant…