Accounts Receivable Associate

Accounts Receivable Specialist

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Accounts Receivable Specialist to join our finance team. This position plays a critical role in managing the company's cash flow, maintaining positive customer relationships, and ensuring timely collection of outstanding receivables. The ideal candidate will bring 2-4 years of relevant experience, strong analytical skills, and a customer-focused approach to credit and collections management.

This is a full time position from Congers New York, Monday through Friday. Salary range for this position is $65,000 to $70,000.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Collections Management

• Proactively manage and monitor accounts receivable aging, identifying delinquent accounts and implementing timely collection strategies
• Contact customers via phone, email, and written correspondence to resolve outstanding balances and negotiate payment arrangements
• Maintain detailed records of all collection activities and customer communications in the accounting system
• Escalate problematic accounts to management and recommend appropriate actions including payment plans, account holds, or collection agency referrals
• Meet or exceed weekly/monthly collection targets and DSO (Days Sales Outstanding) goals

Cash Application

• Process and apply daily customer payments accurately to appropriate invoices and accounts
• Investigate and resolve payment discrepancies, unapplied cash, and invoice disputes in a timely manner
• Process credit memos, refunds, and adjustments in accordance with company policies and proper authorization
• Reconcile bank deposits to cash receipts and investigate any variances

Credit Analysis & Management

• Evaluate creditworthiness of new and existing customers using CreditSafe or similar credit reporting software, financial statements, trade references, and payment history
• Recommend appropriate credit limits and payment terms based on risk assessment and company credit policy
• Monitor customer accounts for changes in payment behavior or financial condition that may impact credit risk
• Review and approve customer orders against established credit limits and terms
• Maintain accurate customer credit files and documentation

Customer & Internal Relationship Management

• Serve as primary point of contact for customer inquiries regarding invoices, payments, statements, and account status
• Build and maintain positive relationships with customers while professionally addressing payment issues
• Collaborate with the internal sales team to resolve billing discrepancies, facilitate customer communications, and support revenue objectives
• Work cross-functionally with operations, customer service, and sales to ensure smooth order-to-cash processes
• Provide regular updates to management on collection status, aging trends, and customer issues

Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare weekly and monthly aging reports, collection activity summaries, and cash flow forecasts
• Analyze AR metrics and trends to identify areas for improvement in collection efficiency
• Assist with month-end close activities including AR reconciliations and reserve calculations
• Support internal and external audit requests related to accounts receivable

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities to streamline AR processes and improve collection effectiveness
• Assist in implementing and optimizing AR automation tools and systems
• Contribute to the development and refinement of credit and collection policies and procedures

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• 2-4 years of hands-on experience in accounts receivable, collections, or credit management
• Demonstrated success in collecting past-due accounts and improving collection metrics

Technical Skills

• Proficiency with accounting/ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite preferred, SAP, Oracle, QuickBooks, or similar platforms)
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills including VLOOKUP, pivot tables, and data analysis
• Experience with cash application software and automated payment processing systems preferred
• Familiarity with credit reporting agencies and credit analysis tools

Core Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with keen attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact professionally with customers at all levels
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong customer service orientation balanced with ability to be firm and persistent in collections
• Diplomacy and tact when handling difficult conversations and resolving disputes
• Self-motivated with ability to work independently and as part of a team
• High level of integrity and ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive financial information
• Adaptable and eager to learn new systems, processes, and best practices

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a B2B environment with complex billing structures
• Knowledge of GAAP principles related to revenue recognition and accounts receivable
• Persistent, tenacious personality to achieve collection goals but utilizes tact and finesse where necessary to strengthen customer relationships
• Willingness to potentially perform and learn other functions such as Accounts Payable

Benefits:

• Great medical, dental & vision benefits
• 401(k) matching program
• Generous paid time off and holiday policies
• Team-first mindset
• Career growth opportunities

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We are Great Place to Work certified, with 98% of team members stating they are proud to work for PowerPak! We are always looking for ways to put "People First". To learn more, check out our Core Values here: https://www.powerpak.net/careers