Cash Application and Collections Specialist

Oil Dri•Chicago, IL

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Cash Application and Collections Specialist plays a key role in supporting Oil-Dri’s cash flow, accounts receivable performance, and customer account management. This position is responsible for accurately applying customer payments, researching and resolving account discrepancies, managing unapplied cash, and supporting collection efforts to reduce past due balances. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, customer-focused, and able to work collaboratively with internal teams and external customers to resolve payment-related issues in a timely and professional manner. This is a hybrid role with Monday - Wednesday onsite required.

Requirements

4 – 6 years of experience in Accounts Receivable, Cash Application, Collections, or a related finance function.
Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent attention to detail and organizational abilities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems; JD Edwards experience preferred.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Customer-service mindset with the ability to build positive internal and external relationships.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
High level of accuracy, accountability, and follow-through.

Nice To Haves

Associate or bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Accurately apply daily customer payments, including ACH, wire, lockbox, check, and credit card transactions, within established deadlines.
Research and resolve unapplied payments, short payments, overpayments, and payment discrepancies.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date customer account records in JD Edwards.
Prepare and maintain supporting documentation for month-end close, reconciliations, and audit requests.
Support efforts to reduce unapplied cash and ensure timely posting of receipts.
Manage an assigned portfolio of customer accounts to ensure timely collection of outstanding balances.
Proactively contact customers regarding past due invoices, payment status, and account discrepancies.
Partner with Sales, Customer Service, Deductions, and other internal teams to resolve issues impacting payment.
Document collection activity, customer communications, and follow-up actions in accordance with department procedures.
Provide weekly updates to management regarding collection status, high-risk accounts, and significant past due balances.
Support month-end close activities, including accounts receivable reconciliations and reporting.
Assist with internal and external audit requests as needed.
Contribute to process improvement initiatives that enhance accuracy, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Support department goals related to cash flow, working capital, and overall Order-to-Cash performance.