Student Accounts Representative, Student and Collections Focus - Business Office

Ashland University•Ashland, OH

60d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction of the Director of Student Accounts, the individual will provide information on payment, billing and collection policies and procedures related to student account transactions. The individual will review student accounts for accuracy of information; resolves and corrects errors as needed. The individual will also need well-developed communication skills to diffuse difficult situations and communicate technical information. Interactions with others include students, parents, outside agencies and university departments regarding student accounts/disputes. Work results impact the accuracy, reliability and acceptability of further results beyond the immediate work section. This role requires excellent customer service skills and the ability to work collaboratively with other departments to support students and parents effectively. The ability to exercise sound judgment and the highest levels of ethics and integrity in connection with assigned duties is essential. This position must handle sensitive financial matters in a manner consistent with the University's values and mission.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Demonstrated excellence in interpersonal skills, attention to detail and excellent customer service skills.
Ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality required.
Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to multi-task.
Excellent computer skills; specifically, advanced Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word.
Ability to work in a shared office environment and a people-first attitude and team player.
Must possess excellent oral and written communication skills to support effective interaction with various levels of faculty, staff, students and other constituents.

Nice To Haves

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in accounting or business-related field is preferred.
One (1) to three (3) years experience in customer service and billing preferred.
General accounting office experience and previous work on a computerized accounting system preferred.
Knowledge of higher education Accounts Receivable/Cash operation is preferred.
Knowledge of collection and credit law (i.e., Fair Credit Reporting Act, Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, and the Fair and Accurate Credit Transaction Act).
Experience with an ERP system, Ellucian Colleague, or other higher education software system experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist in student services including the advisement of student's financial obligations, financial payment plan options, and student account balances .
Professionally communicate directly with students and families to resolve all problems and complaints concerning student accounts (via telephone calls, e-mails and letters).
Manage the communication of the billing process and enhance communication plans with students and third parties.
Collaborate with the Student Accounts team the review past due accounts for pre-collection processing and activities.
Oversee and monitor the accounts held in internal collections and with outside agencies. Ensure payments and fees are applied timely to accounts.
Apply and release financial holds in accordance with university policies.
Assist with the Director of Student Accounts in making necessary adjustments to accounts as deemed necessary.
Work closely daily with members of Students Accounts, Financial Aid, Records and Registration offices to support students and parents effectively and resolve account discrepancies.
Assist in the preparation invoices for all third party and scholarship agencies for students as vouchers are received.
Assist with the student health insurance program with the Director of Student Accounts.
Assist customers with inquiries regarding 1098-T tax reports, including correcting student account records; generating duplicate statements; reproducing 1098-T forms.
Ensure all actions comply with FERPA, FDCPA, and institutional financial procedures.
Other duties may be assigned.