Accounts Receivable Specialist

Accounts Receivable/Collections SpecialistLorain OH (onsite)Position SummaryThe Accounts Receivable/Collections Specialist is responsible for managing the company's credit and collections processes to ensure timely customer payments while minimizing financial risk. This role evaluates customer creditworthiness, monitors outstanding accounts, resolves billing discrepancies, and maintains accurate financial records. The Credit Controller works closely with the Sales, Marketing, and Finance teams to establish appropriate credit terms, enforce payment policies, and support healthy cash flow. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, analytical, organized, and possesses excellent communication and negotiation skills with a strong commitment to customer service.Key ResponsibilitiesCredit Management· Evaluate credit applications by reviewing financial information and credit history.· Establish and maintain customer credit limits and payment terms in accordance with company policies.· Monitor customer accounts to identify potential credit risks and recommend appropriate actions.Accounts Receivable & Collections· Monitor accounts receivable and proactively follow up on overdue invoices through phone calls, emails, and written correspondence.· Negotiate payment arrangements while maintaining positive customer relationships.· Issue collection notices and coordinate account escalations, including referrals to collection agencies or legal counsel when necessary.· Investigate and resolve billing disputes to facilitate timely payment.Payment Processing & Account Maintenance· Process customer invoices accurately and enter invoice information into the accounting system.· Match invoices and vendor statements with purchase orders when applicable.· Apply customer payments and credit memos accurately to outstanding invoices.· Process checks, wire transfers, and other payment transactions.· Maintain accurate customer and vendor account records.Reconciliation & Reporting· Reconcile customer accounts, vendor statements, and accounting records.· Verify the accuracy of invoices, financial documents, and accounting records.· Prepare aging reports, collection reports, and other financial reports for management.· Analyze accounts monthly, quarterly, and annually to ensure payment accuracy and identify collection trends.· Update and maintain accounting journals and supporting documentation.Administrative & General Duties· Respond promptly and professionally to customer inquiries by phone and email.· Investigate discrepancies and questionable accounting data.· Prepare spreadsheets and reports using Microsoft Excel.· Operate standard office equipment.· Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, Accounting, and other departments.· Follow company policies and supervisor instructions.· Perform other duties as assigned.Qualifications· Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred.· Previous experience in credit, collections, accounts receivable, or accounting preferred.· Strong understanding of credit and collection practices.· Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.· Experience with accounting or ERP software preferred.· Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.· Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.