Collections Specialist

Department: Fiscal Services
Classification: Admin Office Specialist 3
Job Category: Classified Staff
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)
Location: Fairfax
Telework Friendly: Yes
Pay Band: 03
Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience
Criminal Background Check: Yes
Financial Background Check: Yes
About the Department:
The collection of University accounts receivable in accordance with Commonwealth of Virginia Code and the Department of Accounts-Commonwealth Accounting Policies and Procedures (CAAP) guidelines.
About the Position:
To develop and maintain a program that reduces defaulted student accounts write-off cost by focusing on earlier identification and intervention of "at risk" accounts prior to the start of the collection process. Under the direction of the Cashiering and ALM Manager, The Collection Specialist contacts students to explain Commonwealth of Virginia collection procedures and refer students, when applicable, to other departments for assistance; works independently and makes decisions that impact collections within University policies; provides a central point of communication for collection agencies, loan servicers, and internal staff; performs various reconciliations as directed; and supports daily, weekly, and monthly operations.
Responsibilities:

• Conducts outreach in a courteous and professional manner while providing accurate information to the student. Makes complete and timely records, any special handling needed on each account. Follows up on unresolved issues with students until finalized and provides information to Cashiering and ALM Manager as needed;
• Makes measurable reduction in both number and dollar amounts of student accounts in yearly write-off calculation. Meets all reporting and filing deadlines associated with the Debt Set-off program;
• Within the scope of normal working hours and related to the functions of Student Fiscal Services, performs tasks that arise. Serves as back up to other co-workers; and
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience working in Accounts Receivable;
• Demonstrated problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills;
• Ability to work with Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and email systems;
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills and ability to work well with people at a variety of competency levels;
• Possess clear and precise written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate complex material both in writing and orally; and
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple, concurrent high-priority responsibilities in a time-pressured environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Considerable related work experience;
• Experience in Higher Ed and/or Student Accounts; and
• Detailed understanding of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, FERPA, and Accounts Receivable applications.

Instructions to Applicants:
For full consideration, applicants must apply for Collections Specialist at https://jobs.gmu.edu/; complete and submit the online application; and provide a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references with contact information.
Posting Open Date: November 21, 2023
For Full Consideration, Apply by: December 8, 2023
Open Until Filled?: Yes
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Mason is currently the largest and most diverse university in Virginia with students and faculty from all 50 states and over 135 countries studying in over 200 degree programs at campuses in Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William, as well as at learning locations across the commonwealth. Rooted in Mason's diversity is a campus culture that is both rewarding and exciting, work that is meaningful, and opportunities to both collaborate and create.
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