Account Collector 1

Account Collector IThe City of Clearwater is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future visa sponsorship. City of Clearwater will not sponsor employment visas (e.g., H-1B, or any other work authorization status).Entry Salary: $42,045.64 AnnuallyUnder general direction, the Account Collector I performs tasks involving credit and collections for utility accounts within the City of Clearwater Utility. Responsible for engaging, working with, and responding to various customer concerns, questions, and requests regarding commercial or residential utility services, billing, and collections.Duties and ResponsibilitiesContacts customers via phone or email and provides information or referrals regarding departmental and City services and operations; handles bill payments, and monitors accounts for delinquencies.Explains, communicates, and relays departmental and City policies, procedures, and applicable rules and regulations to the public via personal contact, telephone conversation, or written correspondence; transfers information to customers regarding delinquent accounts, collections policies, and payment plans.Contacts and calls customers to update, balances due, payment arrangements, and possible payment extensions; monitors delinquent accounts to ensure appropriate and accurate billing and accounting.Maintains accurate records and service files; resolves, collections, and credit issues with tact and diplomacy.Examines, evaluates, and reviews accounts receivable and various computer databases to determine if delinquent payments have been made; performs general collection work, delivers written delinquent notices, and discontinues services for nonpayment.Performs routine service disconnects for water customers and gas customers; enters addresses and information, enters payment information. Checks for unauthorized use of water or gas by customers who illegally turn on meters.Compiles, drafts, and types correspondence; audits, reviews, and monitors account records in response to customer requests or to track payment of accounts receivable.Enters, updates, and edits credit payments, and other sources of payment; maintains accurate accounting for payments made and provides cashiering functions for the department.Operates city vehicle to visit customers and to aid in the completion of assigned work.Performs other duties as assigned.Minimum QualificationsLicenses, Certifications, and Equipment: A valid State driver's license is required. This position is required to operate the below equipment, machines, tools, and other work aides: Telephone, copier, fax machine, calculator, personal computer, applicable departmental computer information system applications, and other equipment as assigned.

Education and Experience: High School Diploma or G.E.D. Certificate, some college desirable PLUS one (1) year of clerical office, cashiering, and/or customer service experience.Supplemental InformationKnowledge of:Word processing and spreadsheet applicationsCredit and collections methods, techniques, and standardsCustomer service records, payment processing, and account collectionsWater and gas metersRecord keeping, report preparation, and filing methodsGeneral office practices, policies, and proceduresComputers and related office equipmentSkill in:Contacting customers and performing general credit and collections tasksReading metersInterpreting City policies and proceduresUsing various tools and equipment to perform readingsCommunicating and engaging with the public; deescalating customer service situationsEstablishing and maintaining strong office relationshipsOperating a computer and related softwareBenefitsFull time employees only receive: Health and Wellness initiatives • 100% employee health care coverage • Option for dependent health care • Life Insurance • Optional Dental, Vision, AFLAC • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) • Retirement -General Employee Pension Plan • Voluntary Tax-deferred 457 Plan • Paid holiday, vacation, sick leave plans • Competitive Salaries • Tuition assistance • Training and development opportunities • Travel compensation • Military leave • Bereavement leave • Discount coupons • Service and employee recognition awardsPart time employees only receive: Paid holiday, vacation, sick leave plans • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) • Competitive hourly rates • Flexible schedules • Training and development opportunities • Discount coupons • Service and employee recognition awardsSeasonal, variable, temporary, emergency employees receive no benefits.