The Accounts Receivable (AR) Coordinator is responsible for managing customer accounts, monitoring outstanding balances, processing payments, and supporting daily accounts receivable and accounting operations. This position serves as a key point of contact for customer billing inquiries, payment follow-ups, account reconciliations, and resolution of discrepancies. The AR Coordinator ensures invoices are issued and recorded accurately, payments are applied in a timely manner, and customer account records are maintained with a high level of accuracy. This role works closely with customers, internal departments, and accounting personnel to support timely collections, maintain accurate financial records, and contribute to the overall efficiency of the accounts receivable function.
KEY COMPETENCIES
- Attention to Detail
- Organizational Skills
- Accounts Receivable Knowledge
- Accounting Principles and Practices
- Customer Account Management
- Communication Skills
- Time Management and Prioritization
- Analytical Thinking and Problem Solving
- Data Accuracy and Recordkeeping
- Payment Processing and Reconciliation
- Follow-Up and Collections
- Accountability and Dependability
- Confidentiality and Professionalism
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Adaptability and Flexibility
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
Accounts Receivable and Customer Account Management
- Manage assigned customer accounts and maintain accurate, up-to-date accounts receivable records.
- Monitor customer account balances, payment activity, credit balances, and outstanding invoices to ensure accounts remain current.
- Review customer accounts for overdue balances and follow up on outstanding invoices in a timely and professional manner.
- Communicate with customers via email and telephone regarding invoice status, payment expectations, past-due balances, and account discrepancies.
- Respond to customer inquiries regarding invoices, statements, payment applications, billing discrepancies, and account balances.
- Research and resolve billing issues, payment discrepancies, short payments, deductions, and unapplied cash in coordination with customers and internal departments.
- Maintain professional customer relationships while supporting timely payments and effective collections efforts.
- Escalate significantly overdue accounts, unresolved disputes, and collection concerns to management as appropriate.
Invoice Processing, Payment Application, and Reconciliation
- Review and process customer invoices, credit memos, and related accounts receivable transactions for accuracy and completeness.
- Verify billing information, supporting documentation, pricing, quantities, and applicable charges before invoices are issued or processed.
- Record and apply customer payments accurately and in a timely manner in the accounting system.
- Research unidentified payments, unapplied cash, and discrepancies between customer remittances and outstanding invoices.
- Reconcile customer account balances and investigate differences between internal records and customer statements.
- Prepare and distribute customer account statements, invoice copies, and supporting documentation as needed.
- Process approved adjustments, credits, and corrections in accordance with company policies and established accounting procedures.
- Maintain organized records of invoices, payments, account reconciliations, customer correspondence, and collection activities.
Collections, Reporting, and Accounting Support
- Monitor accounts receivable aging reports and identify overdue accounts requiring follow-up or escalation.
- Conduct regular follow-ups with customers regarding past-due invoices and document collection efforts and payment commitments.
- Assist with developing and maintaining collection schedules and prioritizing accounts based on aging, outstanding balances, and payment status.
- Prepare accounts receivable reports, aging summaries, payment status updates, and other financial reports as requested.
- Support month-end closing activities by reviewing account balances, reconciling receivables, identifying discrepancies, and providing required documentation.
- Assist with accounts receivable reconciliations and research variances to support accurate financial reporting.
- Coordinate with customer service, sales, operations, and other internal departments to resolve billing issues and obtain supporting documentation.
- Identify recurring billing or payment issues and communicate opportunities to improve processes, accuracy, and effectiveness of collection.
- Assist with audits and provide invoice records, payment details, reconciliations, and other supporting financial documentation as needed.
General Responsibilities
- Follow all company policies, standard operating procedures, internal controls, and applicable accounting practices.
- Maintain confidentiality of customer financial information, company records, and other sensitive business information.
- Ensure all accounts receivable transactions and supporting documentation are recorded accurately and maintained in accordance with company procedures.
- Meet established productivity, accuracy, timeliness, and performance expectations.
- Communicate account concerns, collection risks, and unresolved discrepancies to management in a timely manner.
- Collaborate with accounting personnel and other departments to support daily business operations and financial objectives.
- Perform other duties, special projects, and responsibilities as assigned.
Skills & Qualifications
- High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required; an associate degree or coursework in accounting, finance, or business administration preferred.
- Minimum of one 1-2 years of accounts receivable, accounting, billing, collections, or related financial administrative experience preferred.
- Working knowledge of accounts receivable processes, invoice management, payment application, account reconciliations, and collections preferred.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy when processing financial transactions and maintaining account records.
- Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple customer accounts, and meet deadlines.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate professionally with customers regarding billing issues and outstanding balances.
- Ability to research discrepancies, analyze account information, identify errors, and resolve issues in a timely manner.
- Ability to handle confidential financial information with discretion and professionalism.
- Strong follow-up skills and the ability to manage outstanding items through resolution.
- Basic mathematical skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and the ability to calculate balances and reconcile transactions.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with accounting personnel, customers, and other internal departments.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Work is primarily performed in an office environment located within a warehouse or distribution facility.
- Frequent use of computers, telephones, printers, and other standard office equipment.
- Ability to remain seated for extended periods while performing customer service and administrative functions.
- Occasional standing, walking, and movement throughout warehouse operational areas.
- Exposure to moderate noise, warehouse traffic, powered industrial trucks, and varying temperature conditions when entering operational areas.
- Ability to communicate effectively with customers, visitors, associates, and management.
- Overtime, weekends, and schedule flexibility may be required to support customer and business needs.