AR Assistant​/Collections

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Full-time Regular Marion, IA, US

Salary Range: $18.00 To $25.00 Hourly

About the Role:

The AR Assistant/Collections role is pivotal in managing and optimizing the accounts receivable process to ensure timely collection of outstanding payments. This position focuses on maintaining accurate financial records, communicating effectively with clients regarding their invoices, and resolving any discrepancies or disputes that may arise. The successful candidate will contribute to the company’s cash flow stability by diligently following up on overdue accounts and collaborating with internal teams to streamline billing and collection procedures.

This role requires a detail-oriented and proactive individual who can balance customer service with assertive collection efforts. Ultimately, the AR Assistant/Collections professional will help maintain healthy financial operations and support the overall fiscal health of the organization. This position is a Monday to Friday and 8am to 4:30pm.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent;
  Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred.
• At least 1-2 years of experience in accounts receivable, collections, or a related financial role.
• Proficiency with accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to interact professionally with customers and internal teams.
• Basic understanding of accounting principles and accounts receivable processes.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with ERP systems.
• Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations related to collections and credit management.
• Previous experience in a customer service or client-facing role.
• Certification in credit and collections management (e.g., Certified Credit and Collection Professional) is a plus.
• Ability to analyze financial data to identify trends and potential risks

Responsibilities:

• Monitor and manage accounts receivable aging reports to identify overdue accounts and prioritize collection efforts.
• Contact customers via phone, email, or mail to remind them of outstanding invoices and negotiate payment plans when necessary.
• Investigate and resolve billing discrepancies or disputes in collaboration with the billing department and customers..
• Maintain organized records of all collection activities and customer communications fin the accounting system.
• Prepare regular reports on collection status and provide insight to management to support financial decision-making.

Skills:

The AR Assistant/Collections role requires strong organizational skills to daily to track and prioritize multiple accounts, ensuring no overdue invoices are overlooked. Effective communication skills are essential for negotiating payment terms and resolving disputes with customers in a professional manner. Proficiency in accounting software and Excel enables accurate records and generate reports that inform management decisions. Analytical skills help in identifying patterns in payment behaviors and potential credit risks, allowing for proactive collection strategies.

Additionally, interpersonal skills foster positive relationships with customers and internal teams, supporting a collaborative approach to financial management.