AR Operations Specialist

Job Title: AR Operations Specialist 

Department: Finance / Accounting

Reports To: Credit Manager

FLSA Status: Exempt

Position Summary

The AR Operations Specialist plays a critical role in maintaining the company’s cash flow and fostering strong customer relationships. This role is responsible for managing customer accounts receivable, ensuring timely collections, and accurately onboarding new customers in compliance with company credit policies. The specialist works closely with internal sales teams and customers to resolve payment issues, perform credit assessments, and support process improvements that enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.

Primary Responsibilities

Accounts Receivable Management 

• Monitor assigned customer accounts and proactively follow up on past-due balances.
• Contact customers via phone and email to secure payment commitments and resolve delinquent accounts.
• Maintain detailed collection notes and payment status updates in the ERP system.
• Investigate and resolve payment delays, disputes, and short pays in collaboration with internal teams.
• Escalate high-risk or significantly overdue accounts to management when necessary.
• Provide regular updates on collection activity, aging trends, and payment issues.
• Contribute to improving credit and collection procedures to increase efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies and applicable commercial credit and collections regulations while maximizing recovery opportunities.
• Supports departmental initiatives as needed.

New Account Establishment

• Set up new customer accounts in the ERP/accounting system accurately and promptly.
• Collect, review, and validate required onboarding documentation (credit applications, contracts, tax exemption certificates).
• Perform credit checks or basic credit assessments in accordance with company policy.
• Establish credit limits and payment terms within approved authority levels.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of customer master data.
• Coordinate with Sales to ensure timely and compliant account activation.
• Handles ad hoc projects as required.

Cross-Functional Support

• Cross-train in Cash Application processes and serve as the primary backup for the Cash Application Specialist during absences, ensuring timely and accurate processing of customer payments.
• Assist with Cash Application responsibilities as needed to support departmental workload and business priorities.

Qualifications Required

• High School Diploma or equivalent (Associate’s degree preferred).
• 3–5 years of experience in credit, collections, accounts receivable, or finance.
• Proficiency with ERP or accounting systems.
• Experience interacting with customers and internal sales teams.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Professionalism in handling confidential and sensitive information.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Clear and professional written and verbal communication.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
• Team collaboration and adaptability to changing priorities.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Office-based work environment
• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer use