Accounts Receivable Specialist

American Psychological Association; Washington, Northern (District of Columbia, KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote Work/Flexible Scheduling

401(k) with employer match

Medical/Dental/Vision insurance

Paid time off and holidays

Job summary

The American Psychological Association is seeking an Accounts Receivable Specialist to ensure accurate processing of payments and to support month-end close and audits. The role emphasizes high-volume cash applications, reconciliations, and strong customer service.

Candidates should have a associate’s degree related to accounting or finance and 3–5 years of AR experience, with advanced Excel skills and experience with ERP/financial systems.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or related field; or equivalent.
• 3–5 years of accounts receivable, cash application or related experience.
• Experience processing high-volume financial transactions with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Demonstrated customer service skills and ability to handle confidential information.

Responsibilities

• Process and apply payments via lockbox, ACH, wire, credit cards, checks, and others.
• Resolve unapplied cash, short/overpayments, and discrepancies.
• Maintain AR records for accurate posting and documentation.

Skills

Attention to detail

Customer service

Handling confidential information

Strong communication

Education

Associate’s degree in accounting/finance/business administration

Tools

Excel PivotTables

XLOOKUP/VLOOKUP

Microsoft Word

Outlook

Teams

ERP/financial systems

Electronic payment platforms

Job description

Note: APA operates on a 37.5-hour work week with one-hour lunch breaks each day. APA sets salaries based on several considerations, including years of relevant experience, level of education, and previous staff and/or governance experience at APA.

The Accounts Receivable Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of accounts receivable transactions, including cash application, payment processing, account reconciliations, customer account maintenance, and resolution of payment discrepancies. This position supports the organization's financial operations by ensuring receivable balances are accurately recorded, payments are properly applied, and internal controls are maintained. The role also supports month-end close activities, audit requests, and process improvement initiatives while delivering exceptional customer service to internal and external stakeholders.

Education and Experience Required:

• Education: Associate’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Three to five years of accounts receivable, cash application, accounting operations, or related experience.
• Experience processing high-volume financial transactions with a strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Demonstrated customer service skills and ability to handle sensitive information confidentially.

Computer Skills Required:

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including PivotTables, XLOOKUP/VLOOKUP, sorting, filtering, and data analysis.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Outlook, and Teams.
• Experience using accounting, ERP, or financial management systems.
• Experience with electronic payment platforms, banking systems, and lockbox processing preferred.
• Experience with reporting and data analysis tools is a plus.

Responsibilities:

Accounts Receivable Processing

• Process and apply payments received through lockbox, ACH, wire transfers, credit cards, checks, and other payment methods.
• Research and resolve unapplied cash, short payments, overpayments, duplicate payments, and other account discrepancies.
• Review and maintain accounts receivable records to ensure accurate and timely posting of transactions.
• Process customer refunds and account adjustments in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Maintain complete and accurate documentation supporting all receivable transactions.

Cash Receipts and Reconciliations

• Perform remote deposits and review lockbox activity for assigned entities.
• Reconcile daily cash receipts to bank activity and accounts receivable records.
• Prepare and maintain account reconciliations and supporting schedules.
• Assist with month-end and year-end close activities related to accounts receivable and cash receipts.

Reporting and Analysis

• Generate recurring and ad hoc accounts receivable reports for management.
• Review aging reports and assist with identifying and resolving outstanding balances.
• Support financial reporting requirements through preparation of schedules and reconciliations.
• Analyze trends and recommend improvements that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and customer service.

Compliance and Internal Controls

• Process transactions in compliance with organizational policies, accounting standards, and internal control requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality and security of financial and customer information.
• Support compliance with applicable payment processing and data security requirements.
• Assist with internal and external audits by providing documentation and responding to information requests.

Customer Service and Collaboration

• Respond promptly and professionally to inquiries from members, customers, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
• Collaborate with departments across the organization to resolve payment issues and account discrepancies.
• Support annual conventions, conferences, and other events requiring payment processing or accounts receivable support.
• Identify opportunities to streamline processes and improve operational efficiency.
• Participate in system enhancements, testing activities, and automation initiatives.
• Recommend solutions that strengthen controls, improve customer service, and reduce manual effort.

Other Duties as Assigned:

• Assists as needed with audit requests, creating or preparing reports, and other ad hoc requests.

About APA:

The American Psychological Association (APA) represents 146,000 psychologists, students, and affiliates, primarily in the U.S. and Canada but also in other countries around the world. APA is a scientific and professional organization with about 500 employees and is categorized as a 501(c)(3) along with its 501(c)(6) companion organization, APA Services, Inc.

APA offers a generous employee benefits program, includingRemote Work/Flexible Scheduling; a 401(k) option with employer matchof up to 4%; medical, dental, and vision insurance options and an outpatient mental health benefit; paid personal/vacation time plus 12 paid holidays; Family/Medical Leave; tuition assistance; an Employee Assistance Program (EAP); short- and long-term disability insurance; and more.

Job Location: Remote: APA jobs may be considered for remote work eligibility as defined in APA’s Flexible Work Policy and are subject to approval. Remote work employees may not work from the following states or U.S. territories: Alaska, California, Colorado, Guam, Hawaii, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, U.S. Virgin Islands, Washington, Wyoming.

The American Psychological Association is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, personal appearance, familial status, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.