What are the responsibilities and job description for the Collections Specialist position at Parsons Behle & Latimer?
PARSONS BEHLE & LATIMER has an opening for a full-time Collections Specialist and can be in any city where Parsons has an office, with preference given to Salt Lake candidates. This is an in-office position with starting salary commensurate with experience.
The Collections Specialist plays a critical role in safeguarding the firm’s financial strength while supporting its commitment to exceptional client service. This position is responsible for supporting the collection of outstanding client balances while adhering to the firm’s professional standards and client relationships.
Working closely with the firm’s billing staff, finance leaders, attorneys, to ensure timely payment of invoices while maintaining positive client relationships and adhering to firm’s policies. The role requires sound judgment, diplomacy, and a strong understanding of the unique dynamics of legal billing and client engagement.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Strategically manage the accounts receivable portfolio, ensuring timely collection of outstanding balances while preserving long-term client relationships.
- Partner closely with the firm management and attorneys to resolve billing issues and support revenue cycle efficiency.
- Negotiate payment terms and structured arrangements with clients, balancing risk mitigation with client services.
- Recommends the write-off of uncollectible accounts to CFO and President for approval.
- Research and resolve billing discrepancies and client inquiries.
- Maintain accurate collection notes and account status updates.
- Assess client payment behavior and recommend risk-based actions, including account holds and escalations.
- Ensure compliance with firm policies and client billing guidelines.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
- 2 years of credit and collections experience, preferably in a law firm or professional services environment.
- Proven experience in managing high-volume AR and implementing successful collection strategies.
- Ability to handle sensitive conversations professionally and diplomatically.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Outstanding interpersonal and negotiation skills.
- Strong organizational and analytical abilities.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and financial reporting tools.
- Ability to work with a team and independently.
Preferred Skills:
- Strong understanding of legal billing systems (e.g., Aderant, Elite or similar).
- Familiarity with legal billing guidelines and client-mandated e-Billing platforms.
- Experience working with attorneys or senior partners in a professional setting.
- Knowledge of trust accounting principles (a plus).
- Basic understanding of applicable state and federal collection laws including the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and the Fair Debt Reporting Act.
The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities, or requirements.
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Life insurance
- Long and short-term disability
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Retirement plan upon eligibility
Parsons actively recruits to obtain an applicant pool of candidates from a variety of diverse backgrounds with a breadth of experience from shareholders to professional staff. Interested candidates should email a resume to Susie Headlee at sheadlee@parsonsbehle.com.
Salary : $19 - $21