Accounts Receivable Specialist

About the role

The Accounts Receivable Specialist is responsible for managing student accounts, processing payments, ensuring timely and accurate collection of tuition and fees, and handling refunds of credit balances and/or Title IV funding. The role is critical in maintaining financial stability and supporting the smooth operation of our institution.

Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate student accounts, including setting up and billing semester tuition charges and fees, processing student payments, and ensuring accurate application to student accounts.
• Generate and disseminate communications related to semester billings.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure accurate billing and resolve discrepancies.
• Manage student/family online payments and monthly payment plans.
• Review and reconcile student account balances on a routine basis.
• Respond promptly and professionally to student inquiries regarding their accounts.
• Calculate and process refunds weekly for students who withdraw or have excess financial aid.
• Monitor and follow up on all past due accounts, issuing reminders and placing holds as necessary.
• Prepare delinquent accounts for collection efforts and submit to the collection agency monthly.
• Process student related reports and records requests.
• Obtain endorsements on outside loans, scholarship checks, and promissory notes as required.
• Stay updated on relevant financial regulations and compliance requirements.
• Adhere to institutional policies and procedures related to student accounts and Title IV refund processing.
• Provide support during audits and reviews related to student accounts and Title IV funds.
• Manage and track government regulated Vocational Rehabilitation and Veteran Affairs student payments.
• Serve as the primary person for cashier functions.
• Verify cash deposits from other departments.
• Prepare journal entries for cash receipts not related to student accounts.
• Prepare bank deposits for all checks and cash, making trips to the bank as needed.
• Balance the cash box at month end.
• Keep current on administrative database software upgrades (and all other hardware/software systems accessed) related to your area of responsibility, review upgrade documentation detailing changes and advise supervisor of relevant changes.
• Maintain confidentiality of all information in the Business Office.
• Assist other Business Office personnel when possible, especially during peak loads and during vacations/sick leave of other staff.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of accounting practices, procedures, and general office operations.
• Ability to work with moderate supervision, to begin projects as directed and to follow through in obtaining documentation and authorizations.
• Ability to work under pressure and to meet deadlines.
• Ability to accurately read detailed financial and computer-generated data.
• Ability to perform multiple tasks, to comprehend their impact on other functions, and to clearly articulate account information.
• Ability to apply independent judgment within established guidelines while carrying out responsibilities.
• Ability to resolve conflicts in a constructive manner.
• Ability to always present a pleasant, courteous, and service oriented attitude.
• Knowledge of regulations controlling the processing and release of student information.
• Ability to use current computer equipment and programs being used by the division, including Microsoft Office Suite products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google applications (Gmail, calendar, Google Docs, etc.).
• Strong administrative, computer, organizational and detail skills.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to monitor own work for accuracy and thoroughness.
• Ability to clearly communicate in oral and written form.

Required Experience & Education

• Associate's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration (or related field) or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Proven experience in an accounts receivable or similar role.
• Minimum of three years' experience providing excellent customer service to internal and external customers.
• Experience with financial software and systems.

Preferred Experience

• Previous experience working in a collegiate environment.
• Familiarity with student accounts, Title IV regulations, and the unique billing and collection challenges in the higher education sector.

Pay

$50,000