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Accounts Receivable Collections Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

The Role The Accounts Receivable Collections Specialist will contribute to our Client Services Group by following up on outstanding project receivables for specific offices and/or practice areas ...

Accounts Receivable Associate

Cary, IL · On-site

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

We are seeking an Accounts Receivable Associate to join our Accounting team ... In this role, you'll support customer accounts, cash application, collections, and account ...

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Accounts Receivable Collections Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$23

$30

How much do accounts receivable collections associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for accounts receivable collections associate in Chicago, IL is $23.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an accounts receivable collections associate do?

An Accounts Receivable Collections Associate is responsible for managing and collecting payments owed to a company by its customers. They monitor outstanding invoices, contact customers to resolve overdue accounts, and arrange payment plans if necessary. Their role is essential in ensuring the company's cash flow remains healthy by minimizing overdue balances and reducing bad debt. They also maintain accurate records of collection activities and may work closely with other departments such as sales and customer service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an accounts receivable collections associate?

To thrive as an Accounts Receivable Collections Associate, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of accounting principles, often backed by a relevant associate’s degree or experience in finance. Familiarity with accounting software such as QuickBooks or SAP, proficiency in Excel, and knowledge of collections management systems are typically required. Excellent negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills help build relationships and resolve payment issues effectively. These skills are important for maintaining healthy cash flow, minimizing bad debt, and supporting the overall financial stability of the organization.

What are some common challenges faced by accounts receivable collections associates, and how can they be effectively managed?

Accounts Receivable Collections Associates often encounter challenges such as managing overdue accounts, handling difficult customer interactions, and balancing a high volume of accounts while maintaining accuracy. To manage these challenges, it is important to develop strong communication and negotiation skills, utilize effective time management strategies, and leverage collection software to track follow-ups and payments. Building positive relationships with clients and working closely with sales and customer service teams can also help resolve disputes more efficiently and improve collection rates.

What is the difference between Accounts Receivable Collections Associate vs Accounts Payable Clerk?

AspectAccounts Receivable Collections AssociateAccounts Payable Clerk
Primary ResponsibilityCollect outstanding customer payments and manage receivablesProcess and verify outgoing payments to vendors
Required SkillsCommunication, negotiation, attention to detailData entry, organization, vendor management
Work EnvironmentFinance or accounting department, often in collections or credit teamsFinance or accounting department, focusing on payables
Common CertificationsBasic accounting knowledge, sometimes credit or collections certificationsBasic accounting knowledge, AP certifications optional

The Accounts Receivable Collections Associate focuses on collecting payments from customers, while the Accounts Payable Clerk manages outgoing payments to vendors. Both roles require strong organizational skills and basic accounting knowledge, but their primary functions differ in managing incoming versus outgoing funds.

Can you be an accounts receivable collections associate without experience?

An accounts receivable collections associate position typically requires some knowledge of accounting or finance, but many entry-level roles are available for candidates without prior experience. Employers often provide on-the-job training and may look for strong communication skills and attention to detail. Certifications like a basic accounting or collections training can also be beneficial for starting in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Accounts Receivable Collections Associate jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Accounts Receivable Collections Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Accounts Receivable Collections Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Accounts Receivable Collections Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Accounts Receivable Collections Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,652 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Accounts Receivable Collections Specialist

Bensenville, IL • On-site

Fortune International, LLC
Industrial Machinery Manufacturing • 1 - 10 employees

$24 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Summary of Position:

The Accounts Receivable Collections Specialist is responsible for managing customer accounts, ensuring timely collection of outstanding invoices and maintaining accurate financial records. This role involves direct communication with customers to resolve billing issues, negotiate payment arrangements and support the company’s cash flow objectives while preserving positive customer relationships.


Responsibilities:

· Process weekly, monthly, quarterly, and yearly invoices for numerous customers.

· Maintain customer relationships and manage customer accounts.

· Review AR aging to ensure compliance & make collection calls.

· Record detailed notes regarding customer communication within the ERP.

· Work with the Sales Department to ensure AR activities are compliant with established protocol.

· Provide reporting to the Collections Supervisor.

· Assist with year-end audits.

· Other duties as assigned by the Collections Supervisor.

Minimum Requirements:

· Education – Associates Degree or equivalent.

· Experience – At least two years of relevant accounts receivable/accounting experience.

· Work ethic – A sense of urgency in meeting critical and time sensitive deadlines.

· Technical: Excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Office products required, especially Excel, Word, and Outlook. Experience with an Microsoft Dynamics Business Central a plus.

· Teamwork: Strong interpersonal skills required in order to function within the accounting team.

· A combination of the above will also be considered


Fortune Fish & Gourmet is an equal opportunity employer.