Collection Specialist I

Job Overview The Collections Specialist I is responsible for supporting the collection of outstanding customer balances while maintaining positive customer relationships. This role manages routine collection activities for assigned accounts, ensures timely follow-up on past due balances, documents collection efforts, and partners with internal teams to resolve basic account discrepancies. The Collections Specialist I works within established guidelines and escalates complex collection matters as needed. Brief Description The Collections Specialist I is responsible for supporting the collection of outstanding customer balances while maintaining positive customer relationships. This role manages routine collection activities for assigned accounts, ensures timely follow-up on past due balances, documents collection efforts, and partners with internal teams to resolve basic account discrepancies. The Collections Specialist I works within established guidelines and escalates complex collection matters as needed. Key Responsibilities Manage collection activities for an assigned portfolio of low to moderate complexity accounts to reduce past due balances and minimize aging receivables. Contact customers by phone and email regarding outstanding balances and maintain accurate documentation of collection activities. Follow established collection processes, including sending reminders, requesting payment updates, and documenting customer commitments. Assist with payment plan coordination and elevate exceptions or high-risk accounts as appropriate. Research and assist in resolving routine billing discrepancies, short payments, and customer inquiries. Provide customer support related to account balances, payment questions, refunds, and adjustments. Process credit card payments, account updates, and general customer requests accurately and timely. Partner with Cash Applications, Sales, and internal departments to resolve customer account issues. Review aging reports and customer account information to prioritize daily collection activities. Maintain accurate records and meet department timelines and performance expectations. Identify potential collection risks and elevate concerns to senior team members or management. Job Requirements Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain accurate records.Ability to prioritize work, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Strong verbal and written communication skills with a professional customer-focused approach.Ability to research issues, identify solutions, and elevate when appropriate. Strong organizational skills and ability to follow established processes. Collaborative team player committed to achieving department goals.Ability to maintain professionalism when handling sensitive customer situations. Education And Experience Bachelor’s Degree preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.0-2 years of experience in collections, accounts receivable, customer service, finance, or a related field preferred. Experience working with customer accounts, payment follow-up, billing inquiries, or account reconciliation preferred. Demonstrated ability to learn collection processes, financial systems, and customer account management practices. Technology Skills Strong proficiency in Excel analytics, data management, pivot tables, VLOOKUP's, etc. Familiarity / competency with Dynamics 365 or other ERP/accounting systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, Great Plains). Ability to learn and navigate financial systems, reporting tools, and customer account platforms. About Baldor Since our beginnings as part of the iconic Greenwich Village retail store, Balducci's, Baldor has upheld its original promise—to curate and deliver the finest ingredients from around the world. For more than 30 years, we have supported the food industry using cutting-edge logistics, a modern supply chain, and an unwavering commitment to service. Today, we are the trusted distribution partner for top hotels, restaurants, country clubs, hospitals, nursing homes, and culinary professionals across the region. Benefits Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick time, paid company holidays & floating holidays Company-Paid Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage 401(k) Plan with Company Match Company-Paid Life Insurance Company-Paid Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Coverage Employee discounts on Baldor products Commuter Benefits Career growth and development opportunities Note: Benefits may vary based on position and employment status. #J-18808-Ljbffr Baldor Specialty Food