Collections Specialist at Aston Carter

Collections Specialist

The Collections Specialist manages a portfolio of business-to-business accounts, driving effective collection efforts on outstanding balances while maintaining strong, trust-based customer relationships. This role combines analytical review of aging reports and account exposure with a consultative, relationship-focused approach to resolving payment issues, supporting overall cash flow objectives, and contributing to the success of the broader finance and accounting organization.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of business-to-business accounts and lead collection efforts on outstanding balances to support timely cash flow.
• Communicate directly with customers regarding payment status, cash flow challenges, and account resolution using a consultative and relationship-based approach.
• Review aging reports, account holds, and collection priorities regularly to ensure prompt resolution of past-due balances.
• Partner closely with Customer Care and Sales teams to address customer concerns, resolve disputes, and support successful payment collection.
• Research and resolve invoice discrepancies, billing issues, and other obstacles that impact timely payment.
• Utilize SAP and other internal systems to document account activity, track collection efforts, and maintain accurate and up-to-date customer records.
• Monitor customer payment trends and overall account exposure, identifying risks and escalating concerns and recommendations when appropriate.
• Exercise sound judgment and problem-solving skills to navigate complex customer situations and negotiate appropriate payment arrangements.
• Leverage intermediate Excel skills, including v-lookups and pivot tables, to analyze account data and support decision-making.
• Collaborate with the broader finance and accounting organization to share insights, support process improvements, and contribute to team goals.
• Continuously seek opportunities to take on additional responsibilities and grow within the role as needs evolve.

Essential Skills

• Minimum 2+ years of collections experience in a business-to-business environment with a strong focus on customer relationships.
• Demonstrated experience managing accounts receivable, including invoice processing and cash application activities.
• Strong ability to communicate clearly and professionally with customers about payment status, cash flow challenges, and resolution plans.
• Proven capability to review and interpret aging reports, prioritize collection efforts, and manage account holds.
• Experience researching and resolving invoice discrepancies and billing issues that affect payment timing.
• At least 1+ year of intermediate Excel experience, including regular use of v-lookups and pivot tables in daily work.
• Ability to use SAP or similar enterprise systems to document account activity and maintain accurate customer records.
• Solid judgment and problem-solving skills for handling complex customer situations and making appropriate escalation decisions.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple accounts and deadlines simultaneously.
• Collaborative mindset and experience working with cross-functional teams such as Customer Care, Sales, and Finance.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Preferred 2+ years of SAP experience supporting collections or accounts receivable activities.
• Experience in accounts receivable, invoice processing, and cash application in a corporate environment.
• Experience in professional services, technology, or similar industries supporting business-to-business customers.
• Comfort with a relationship-driven approach to collections, balancing firm follow-up with a positive customer experience.
• Interest in taking on new responsibilities and growing within the finance and accounting organization.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and embrace continuous improvement in processes and tools.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Eden Prairie, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $31.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Eden Prairie, MN.