Collections Specialist

Recruitment Title: Collections Specialist
Job Classification: 8222CC - Fin Pro 2-Cred and/or Collect
Work Environment: Hybrid (2-3 days per week in the office)

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Collections Specialist to join the Controller's Office. This
position is responsible for managing the collection of outstanding receivables, maintaining accurate
financial records, and supporting compliance and reporting functions. The ideal candidate will have
strong communication skills, a customer-focused mindset, and the ability to work collaboratively across
departments to resolve account issues efficiently.

In this role, you will handle the full spectrum of collections activities, including initiating contact with
customers, negotiating payment arrangements, and coordinating with third-party agencies and legal
counsel. You will also generate and analyze accounts receivable reports, support audits, and contribute
to financial system improvements.

Job Responsibilities with % of time:

Collections (80%)

• Initiate contact with customers regarding collection of past due accounts via telephone, email or
  written correspondence.
• Timely communication via telephone, email and written correspondence with academic
  department personnel and others as needed to resolve collection issues. * Detailed
  documentation of work processes, communications and decisions on collections including
  follow-up action.
• Negotiate alternative payment schedules as needed. Monitor payment performance of
  customers in delinquent status.
• Generate, print and mail/email monthly statements.
• Refer problem collections to management for final resolution.
• Work with third party collection agencies and/or Office of General Counsel (OGC) on past
  due accounts including management of bankruptcy notifications, monitor progress. *
  Process bad debt write-offs as needed.
• Create AR reports & review information, identify if maintenance is needed.

Reports and uploads (10%)

• Create AR reports via queries & review information, sharing with University departments on a
  periodic basis.
• Prepare periodic reports for management on outstanding receivables and collection
  efforts.
• Upload registration system details to general ledger.
• Complete ACH setup forms, working with departments and reviewing customer information
  to determine next steps.

Customer Service, Compliance, and Projects (10%)

• Liaison, coordination with, and train University departments on credit and collection
  issues, and related matters.
• Compliance matters, including the annual external audit; internal audit recommendations;
  and departmental compliance with accounting policies and procedures.
• Accounts receivable or financial projects as assigned, including participation in or support of
  financial system improvement projects.

Required Qualifications (please document on your resume):

• BA/BS plus at least two years of professional work experience or a combination of related
  education and work experience to equal six years.
• Collections and/or accounts receivable (AR) experience.

Preferred Qualifications (please document on your resume):

• Customer service oriented.
• An understanding of fund accounting.
• Excellent communication skills including the ability to communicate effectively with
  stakeholders at all levels.
• Excellent critical thinking, problem solving and decision making skills.
• Excellent negotiation and persuasion skills.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Detail oriented and understands the importance of accuracy

Pay Range: $54,000-$66,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment Category: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Please document required and preferred qualifications on your resume.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).