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Debt Collections Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Debt Collector

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

C. is a leading debt collection law firm with over 30 years of experience representing most of the ... Manage a high volume of inbound and outbound calls in a fast-paced collections environment

Debt Collector

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

C. is a leading debt collection law firm with over 30 years of experience representing most of the ... Manage a high volume of inbound and outbound calls in a fast-paced collections environment

Debt Collector

Naperville, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

C. is a leading debt collection law firm with over 30 years of experience representing most of the ... Manage a high volume of inbound and outbound calls in a fast-paced collections environment

Debt Collector

Naperville, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

C. is a leading debt collection law firm with over 30 years of experience representing most of the ... Manage a high volume of inbound and outbound calls in a fast-paced collections environment

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Debt Collections Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$60.5K

$112.3K

How much do debt collections manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for debt collections manager in Chicago, IL is $60,492.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,700.00 and $67,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a debt collections manager do?

A Debt Collections Manager oversees a team responsible for collecting overdue payments from individuals or businesses. Their tasks include developing collection strategies, monitoring team performance, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, and handling escalated cases. They also analyze collection data, report on outcomes, and work with other departments to improve recovery rates. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential for success in this role.

What are some common challenges a debt collections manager faces when leading a collections team?

A Debt Collections Manager often encounters challenges such as motivating team members to meet collection targets while maintaining compliance with regulations and ensuring respectful communication with clients. Balancing the need for results with employee morale and customer satisfaction can be demanding. Additionally, adapting to changes in industry regulations and implementing new technologies or processes to improve recovery rates are ongoing aspects of the role. Successful managers foster teamwork and provide ongoing training to address these challenges effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a debt collections manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Debt Collections Manager, you need a strong understanding of collections processes, regulatory compliance, and financial analysis, usually supported by a degree in finance, business, or a related field. Familiarity with collections management software, CRM systems, and knowledge of relevant laws such as the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) are typically required. Excellent leadership, negotiation, and communication skills help motivate teams and resolve disputes with clients effectively. These skills and qualifications ensure both regulatory compliance and optimal recovery rates while maintaining positive relationships with clients and team members.

What is the difference between Debt Collections Manager vs Debt Recovery Specialist?

AspectDebt Collections ManagerDebt Recovery Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires experience in collections, knowledge of debt laws, and sometimes managerial certificationsOften has collections experience, strong negotiation skills, and relevant industry certifications
Work EnvironmentManages teams in corporate or agency settings, overseeing collection strategiesWorks directly with clients and debtors, often in call centers or field environments
Industry UsageCommonly employed in financial institutions, collection agencies, and corporationsUsed in similar settings, focusing on debt recovery and negotiation

The main difference is that a Debt Collections Manager oversees collection teams and strategies, while a Debt Recovery Specialist focuses on directly negotiating with debtors to recover funds. Both roles require knowledge of debt laws and strong communication skills, but the manager has a broader supervisory role.

What are popular job titles related to Debt Collections Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Debt Collections Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Debt Collections Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Debt Collections Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Debt Collections Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Debt Collections Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Debt Collections Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,492 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

$19 - $19.53/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

The Collection Specialist works under close supervision and follows specific procedures with detailed instructions to make initial contact with debtors, to inform them of delinquencies in their accounts and to advise them of the existence of several specific repayment and resolution options. The Collection Specialist primary function is making routine collections and forwards more complicated accounts to the manager or lead collections specialist to form resolution. The collections specialist may perform entry level information gathering and verification for certain accounts when senior level employees or the site manager has recommended an account for Administrative Wage Garnishment/Litigation or have determined that the full balance cannot be collected due to bankruptcy, incarceration, medical disability, or death on the part of the debtor. In this role the position follows detailed instructions and procedures to contact employers, health care professionals, corrections/prison official, state and county record departments, debtors, and/or other third parties by telephone and/or in writing to request, gather and file necessary account information. The collections specialist will use specific scripts and procedures. This position may conduct follow-up communications with the debtors and employers regarding wage garnishment or rehabilitation programs. The Collections Specialist may receive and submit to the client hearing requests from debtors. This position is considered non-exempt, meaning the employee is eligible for overtime pay under the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FSLA).

Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Must Have a Real ID and Social Security Card
  • Collection experience preferred
  • Must be able to speak and read English clearly, professionally, and fluently
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong active listening skills and empathy.
  • Experience with handling escalations, ensuring quality service, and improving customer experience.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • May be required to work overtime and scheduled holidays.
  • Must work on-site at the Chicago, Illinoisoffice location.
  • Must complete and certify in all required internal training programs, including Outbound Call Center Debt Collections specific training.
  • Must have the ability to work as a member of a team and collaborate with colleagues.
  • Must have the ability to navigate multiple computer systems and enter data accurately while speaking with callers.