About This Role
The Collections Specialist manages accounts receivable and coordinates collection efforts to ensure timely payment of outstanding invoices, playing a critical part in maintaining the financial health of the organization. This role suits a proactive, persistent, and detail-oriented individual who is comfortable communicating with customers regarding outstanding balances while maintaining positive professional relationships.
Responsibilities
- Manage the accounts receivable process, from invoice follow-up through payment collection
- Review and monitor AR aging reports to identify outstanding balances and prioritize collection activities
- Conduct daily outbound collection calls to customers regarding current and past-due accounts
- Communicate professionally with customers to resolve payment issues, disputes, and outstanding balances
- Send payment reminders, account statements, and formal collection correspondence as necessary
- Maintain accurate documentation of customer communications, payment commitments, and follow-up activities
- Escalate delinquent accounts and unresolved payment issues to accounting leadership in a timely manner
- Accurately post and apply customer payments, including checks, ACH transactions, and credit card payments
- Prepare and maintain weekly accounts receivable aging reports and collection activity summaries
- Monitor outstanding balances and identify trends that may impact cash flow
- Track and report key AR performance metrics, including Days Sales Outstanding (DSO)
- Reconcile accounts receivable balances with the general ledger and investigate discrepancies
- Review unapplied payments and outstanding credits to ensure accurate account balances
- Prepare monthly and quarterly AR reports for management, including aging trends, collection performance, and outstanding balances
- Maintain accurate customer account records and collection tracking documentation
- Partner with Accounting, Operations, and Service Managers to resolve outstanding customer balances and billing concerns
- Participate in regular accounts receivable meetings to discuss collection progress, aging accounts, and potential challenges
- Assist with reviewing delinquent accounts and coordinating collection agency activity when necessary
- Identify opportunities to improve collection procedures, reporting accuracy, and overall AR efficiency
- Support management in maintaining effective payment terms and reducing overdue receivables
Requirements
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in accounts receivable, collections, billing, or a related accounting function
- Experience conducting outbound collection calls and managing past-due customer accounts