COLLECTION OFFICER

SUMMARY:

The Collection Officer is responsible for collecting delinquent accounts and accounting for loan or support payments to clients. This position is governed by state and federal laws and institution policy.

TYPICAL FUNCTIONS:

Establishes and maintains computerized records for each client and/or provider account and maintain logs, ledgers, and files of correspondence, payment records, and related information.

Contacts delinquent client or provider to discuss legal requirements, and/or to make arrangements for deferred payment plans, forbearance agreements, or other feasible options.

Researches, reviews, and verifies financial information and makes recommendations concerning disposition of accounts.

Provides assistance and on-the-job training to new employees.

Compiles reports and drafts correspondence related to collections, status of accounts, and payment records.

Reconciles bank statements and postings to cash receipts.

Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:

Knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations related to human services entitlement programs and collection procedures. Ability to communicate with and counsel clients, providers, and other parties, regarding debts owed, under state and federal laws and regulations. Ability to maintain manual and computerized accounting records. Ability to perform and verify the accuracy of basic arithmetic computations. Ability to maintain detailed records and prepare written correspondence and reports.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma; plus four years of experience related to the provision of client or customer services, collections, accounts receivable, or a related area.

Additional requirements determined by the institution for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.

OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.