Accounts Receivable Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Norfolk, VA

Reports To: Accounting Manager

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Accounts Receivable Specialist to own the full AR cycle from invoice generation through collections and cash application. This hands-on role is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely billing, efficient collections, precise cash application, and strong customer communication. The ideal candidate will have solid experience managing the entire order-to-cash process and maintaining clean aging reports.

Key Responsibilities

Invoicing & Billing

• Generate and issue accurate customer invoices in a timely manner
• Review and resolve billing discrepancies or pricing issues
• Ensure invoices are complete, properly coded, and compliant with customer requirements
• Maintain customer master data related to billing and payment terms

Collections

• Manage the full collections process for assigned customer accounts
• Monitor aging reports and proactively follow up on past-due invoices via phone, email, and written correspondence
• Negotiate payment arrangements and escalate high-risk accounts as needed
• Document all collection activities thoroughly in the system
• Reduce Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) and improve overall collection metrics

Cash Application

• Accurately apply customer payments (checks, ACH, wire, credit card) to open invoices
• Research and resolve unapplied cash, short payments, and overpayments
• Process deductions, chargebacks, and credit memos
• Reconcile cash receipts daily/weekly and clear suspense items promptly

Account Management & Reporting

• Perform regular account reconciliations and resolve discrepancies
• Investigate and resolve customer billing and payment inquiries
• Prepare aging reports, collection forecasts, and other AR metrics for management
• Assist with month-end close activities related to accounts receivable
• Support internal and external audits as needed

Qualifications

Required

• 2–5 years of full-cycle Accounts Receivable experience (invoicing, collections, and cash application)
• Strong understanding of the order-to-cash process
• Experience with ERP/accounting systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, QuickBooks, or similar)
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUP, pivot tables, filters)

Preferred

• Experience in manufacturing, distribution, or high-volume transaction environments
• Prior experience with credit & collections best practices
• Familiarity with automated cash application tools or lockbox processes
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Key Performance Indicators

• Accuracy and timeliness of invoicing
• Collection effectiveness and reduction of past-due balances
• Clean cash application (minimal unapplied cash)
• Customer inquiry response time and resolution rate
• Contribution to DSO improvement

Search Pro Group is a boutique search firm that focuses on placing talented accounting, finance, payroll & HR professionals. We offer direct hire and temporary placement services. We are seasoned experts with 100+ recommendations from clients and candidates via LinkedIn.

Company Description

Search Pro Group is a boutique search firm that focuses on placing talented accounting, finance, payroll & HR professionals. We offer direct hire and temporary placement services. We are seasoned experts with 100+ recommendations from clients and candidates via LinkedIn.