Accounts Receivable Specialist

Sidley Austin; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 63,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Sidley Austin LLP is seeking an Accounts Receivable Specialist to support the firm’s collections process by managing a portfolio of client accounts and resolving outstanding balances.

The role requires handling AR aging, following the electronic billing life cycle, and maintaining accurate records with frequent client contact via calls, emails, and letters. Flexibility for hybrid work and strong Excel skills are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Experience in law firm collections or billing preferred.
• Familiarity with e-billing platforms (e.g., TyMetrix, Collaborati, BrightFlag)

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of client collection responsibilities and AR aging.
• Contact clients by phone, email, and letters to follow up on unpaid invoices.
• Negotiate payment schedules and resolve billing disputes.
• Generate AR aging reports and maintain accurate records.
• Assist with Excel-based spreadsheets and ad hoc projects

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication

Attention to detail

Multitasking

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

The Accounts Receivable Specialist supports the Firm’s collections process by managing a portfolio of client accounts, working closely with partners, clients, and Accounts Receivable Managers to resolve outstanding balances and maintain accurate records.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Handle a significant portfolio of Firmwide Client Collection responsibilities in addition to the AR portfolio of assigned attorneys.
• Review and analyze accounts receivable aging.
• Understand and follow the electronic billing life cycle process in order to take the appropriate actions to resolve accounts receivable.
• Contact clients via frequent phone calls, emails, and formal letters to follow-up on status of unpaid invoices.
• Negotiate, document, and arrange payment schedules.
• Reconcile accounts and resolve billing discrepancies or disputes.
• Coordinate with billing teams to resolve invoice errors or e-billing rejections
• Generate and distribute AR aging reports to partners or management.
• Use Firm’s collection system on a daily basis to identify collection follow-ups and to maintain accurate records of all collection activity and client communications.
• Assist with special projects, including creating, formatting, and editing Excel spreadsheets.
• Type statements and correspondences, including the preparation of charts and tables.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and/or Experience:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred. An equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be considered in lieu of the degree when the experience has been directly related to the functions of the job
• Thorough working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel

Preferred:

• Experience in law firm collections or billing
• Experience with legal billing software (e.g., Aderant, Elite 3E, or similar)
• Professional service firm experience in collections or billing
• Demonstrated ability and familiarity with e-billing platforms (e.g., TyMetrix, Collaborati, BrightFlag).

Other Skills and Abilities:

The following will also be required of the successful candidate:

• Strong organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Good judgment
• Strong interpersonal communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Able to work harmoniously and effectively with others
• Able to preserve confidentiality and exercise discretion
• Able to work under pressure
• Able to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines and priorities

#LI-MR1

#LI-Hybrid

The target salary range for this role is:

$62,600 - $80,000 if located in Illinois.

Salaries vary by location and are based on numerous factors, including, but not limited to, the relevant market, skills, experience, and education of the selected candidate. Our compensation package also includes bonus eligibility and a comprehensive benefits program. Benefits information can be found at Sidley.com/Benefits.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the Duties and Responsibilities above satisfactorily and meet the requirements. The requirements listed above are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. If you need such an accommodation, please email [e-mail] (current employees should contact Human Resources).

Sidley Austin LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer.