Senior Collections Specialist

Upstart•Columbus, OH

1d•$27 - $38•Remote

About The Position

Upstart is the leading AI lending marketplace partnering with banks and credit unions to expand access to affordable credit. By leveraging Upstart's AI marketplace, Upstart-powered banks and credit unions can have higher approval rates and lower loss rates across races, ages, and genders, while simultaneously delivering the exceptional digital-first lending experience their customers demand. More than 80% of borrowers are approved instantly, with zero documentation to upload. Upstart is a digital-first company, which means that most Upstarters live and work anywhere in the United States. However, we also have offices in San Mateo, California; Columbus, Ohio; Austin, Texas; and New York City, NY (opening Summer 2026). Most Upstarters join us because they connect with our mission of enabling access to effortless credit based on true risk. If you are energized by the impact you can make at Upstart, we’d love to hear from you! The Team: At Upstart, we’re revolutionizing the collections industry by prioritizing empathy, results, and rewarding success. As a Senior Collections Agent, you’ll be at the forefront of helping borrowers overcome financial challenges while achieving outstanding performance outcomes. This role is perfect for individuals who excel in negotiation, compassionate communication, and driving measurable results in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment.

Requirements

At least 2 years in a collections role at a Financial Institution with proven success meeting performance goals.
Demonstrated ability to effectively engage borrowers, secure agreements, and handle challenging conversations with professionalism and empathy.
Familiarity with FDCPA, TCPA, and other relevant collections laws and best practices.
Proven ability to thrive in a results-oriented environment with experience improving key performance metrics (KPIs).

Nice To Haves

3+ years of full-time employment experience successfully recovering high-risk or delinquent accounts, including managing hardship programs, settlements, and tailored borrower solutions.
Demonstrated ability to negotiate and finalize settlements, ensuring optimal recovery rates while adhering to company policies and regulatory guidelines.
Proven ability to secure high-value agreements while maintaining positive borrower relationships and consistently meeting or exceeding PTP and collection goals.
Deep understanding of collections laws and compliance standards, including FDCPA, TCPA, and state-specific regulations.
Skilled at analyzing performance metrics, optimizing productivity, and excelling in a results-oriented environment.
Skilled in de-escalating challenging conversations, building trust, and presenting effective payment plans under pressure.

Responsibilities

Empower Borrowers : Leverage your expertise in collections to offer personalized solutions to help borrowers bring their accounts current through effective negotiation, empathy, and a deep understanding of payment plans and delinquency management.
Deliver Results : Excel in collections performance by exceeding KPIs, such as dollars collected per productive hour and promise-to-pay (PTP) commitments kept within 7 days of Right Party Contact (RPC).
Drive Innovation : Contribute to improving collections practices by participating in initiatives to enhance borrower support, process efficiency, and program outcomes.

Benefits

Competitive Compensation (base + bonus & equity)
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with Health Savings Account contributions from Upstart
401(k) with 100% company match up to $4,500 and immediate vesting and after-tax savings
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
Life and disability insurance
Generous sick and safety leave
Supportive parental, family care, and military leave programs
Annual wellness, technology & ergonomic reimbursement programs
Social activities including team events and onsites, all-company updates, employee resource groups (ERGs), and other interest groups such as book clubs, fitness, investing, and volunteering
Catered lunches + snacks & drinks when working in offices