Collections Specialist

We are looking for a Collections Specialist to join a fully onsite team in Middletown, New York. This Long-term Contract opportunity is ideal for someone who is detail oriented and has hands-on collections experience, with the ability to manage delinquent accounts with accuracy, sound judgment, and strong member communication. The person in this role will support day-to-day recovery efforts, resolve account issues, and help maintain compliance with internal policies and applicable regulations.

Responsibilities:

• Contact members by phone and respond to incoming inquiries to address past-due accounts and move resolutions forward.
• Guide account holders through available repayment options, including hardship assistance, negotiated settlements, and short-term payment arrangements.
• Handle collection-related service requests such as deferments, payment applications, account updates, and follow-up actions tied to delinquent balances.
• Document all activity thoroughly in the collections platform to ensure account records remain complete, current, and audit-ready.
• Research account details by obtaining supporting materials such as payment histories, statements, credit reports, and related documentation.
• Partner with leadership on accounts that require next-step actions beyond standard collection efforts, including legal review, repossession, or outside agency involvement.
• Recommend accounts for charge-off when recovery is no longer expected and process incoming collection funds from third parties such as attorneys, vendors, or auction proceeds.
• Support administrative operations by preparing departmental mail, maintaining correspondence with external vendors, and assisting with bankruptcy-related notifications and account maintenance.
• Monitor online banking and collection transactions, contribute to general ledger reconciliation activities, and identify opportunities to improve workflow accuracy and efficiency.
• Carry out all collection activities in alignment with federal and state requirements, organizational procedures, and assigned departmental priorities.
• 3+ years of collections experience, including work with delinquent accounts in consumer, commercial, or billing environments.
• Some college education preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant collections experience.
• Working knowledge of collection practices, delinquency management, repayment negotiations, and account resolution procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively by phone and in writing while handling sensitive conversations with tact and clarity.
• Experience using PC-based business applications, including Microsoft Office, for documentation, reporting, and daily workflow management.
• Familiarity with compliance expectations related to regulated financial environments, including adherence to applicable federal and state guidelines.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple requests, maintain accurate records, and escalate complex issues appropriately.
• Detail-oriented demeanor and a positive, service-oriented approach when interacting with members, colleagues, and external partners.