Credit And Collections Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Imagine a company that recognizes excellence in not only the products it sells, but also in its employees. R.S. Hughes Company, Inc. is that company. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of quality and professionalism — and we treat our employees like the valuable assets they are.

Founded in 1954, R.S. Hughes Co., Inc. is a dynamic, North American distributor of industrial supplies. With multiple warehouse sites located across the United States and Mexico, we maintain an extensive inventory of adhesives, abrasives, electrical, static control, tapes, labeling and safety products.

In addition to competitive salaries and benefits, we offer an environment that asks you to make a difference. We value hard work and common sense, and we consistently reward those that exemplify these traits. If you're looking for a great team to grow with and if you are willing to embrace the challenges of being expected to be the best, we welcome you to come join the R.S. Hughes Company, Inc. team!

Job Summary

The Credit & Collections Specialist is primarily responsible for implementing the credit policy and securing revenue by collecting incoming payments through efficient, consistent operational practices and resolving customer discrepancies in a timely manner. This is a key position that performs credit reviews; maintains payment terms, credit limits, and credit holds in the ERP system; analyzes outstanding amounts due; reports on excess credit exposures; tracks payments; makes bank deposits; and maintains accurate recordkeeping in accordance with financial policies and procedures. The successful Credit & Collections Specialist must be able to multi-task, while instinctively readjusting efforts to focus on high-priority tasks. This position is highly customer service oriented and requires excellent communication skills to work with customers and collaborate with internal teams. This role is expected to adhere to all company policies and safety protocols.

Core Responsibilities

• Perform daily accounts receivable transactions to support the company’s billing, credit, and collection efforts.
• Perform credit reviews, analyze outstanding amounts due, and report on excess credit exposures.
• Conduct collection calls and send bill reminders to secure payments on outstanding account balances.
• Maintain internal systems to ensure accounts remain updated with current information, such as resale certifications, AP contacts, etc.
• Promptly post all customer payments and credits.
• Identify and resolve any customer issues to reduce payment discrepancies and AR adjustments.
• Perform reconciliations in a timely and accurate manner; including but not limited to petty cash reconciliations.
• Demonstrate strong verbal communications skills including professional phone etiquette.
• Promote and encourage e-invoicing and electronic payment methods from customers.
• Proactively partner with Management and Sales team to resolve past due invoices and release credit holds.
• Provide timely responses to all email, voicemail, verbal, and written communications.
• Perform other job duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• HS Diploma or GED Equivalent (Required)
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance or related field (Preferred)
• Minimum of 2-3 years of high-volume accounting experience (Required)

Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and ability to use the ERP and other systems, as necessary to perform job duties
• Understanding of basic accounting principles and credit and collection practices
• Strong, clear verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure, take initiative for responsibilities under company policies (facilitating consistent policy application), and meet deadlines independently
• Ability to multitask
• Highly organized
• Excellent attention to detail
• Strong Problem-solving
• Team Player

Our merit-based hourly/bonus program offers exceptional growth opportunities. Target compensation range for this non-exempt role is up to $25.00 per hour

This is a Full-Time position, eligible to participate in the Company’s benefit plans including: Paid Time off; major medical, dental, vision; Company paid short-term and long-term disability; paid parental leave; various supplemental benefit plans; and 12% Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP).