Accounts Receivable Clerk Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the business landscape, the role of accounts receivable clerks is paramount.

As companies expand and transactions multiply, the demand for skilled personnel who can accurately manage, track, and evaluate these financial processes is on the rise.

But what does the role of an accounts receivable clerk truly entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this position,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of accounts receivable,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable accounts receivable clerk job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

Accounts Receivable Clerk Duties and Responsibilities

Accounts Receivable Clerks play a critical role in ensuring that a company’s finances are up to date and that the company is ready to pay its debts.

Their primary responsibility is to track all outstanding debts to the company and manage the process of collecting those debts.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Track all outstanding receivables and invoices
• Generate and send out invoices to customers
• Follow up with customers on unpaid invoices
• Prepare monthly financial and aging reports
• Post and reconcile customer payments to general ledgers
• Communicate with clients about billing discrepancies and queries
• Investigate and resolve any irregularities or enquiries related to accounts receivable
• Collaborate with the sales team to manage credit applications and assess creditworthiness of potential customers
• Process adjustments, refunds, transfer bills, and cancellations
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date customer data

 

Accounts Receivable Clerk Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented, thorough, and organized accounts receivable clerk to join our growing team.

In this position, you will provide financial, administrative, and clerical services and ensure accuracy and efficiency of operations.

You will process and monitor incoming payments and secure revenue by verifying and posting receipts.

 

Responsibilities

• Process accounts and incoming payments in compliance with financial policies and procedures
• Perform day to day financial transactions, including verifying, classifying, computing, posting and recording accounts receivables’ data
• Prepare bills, invoices, and bank deposits
• Reconcile the accounts receivable ledger to ensure that all payments are accounted for and properly posted
• Verify discrepancies by and resolve clients’ billing issues
• Facilitate payment of invoices due by sending bill reminders and contacting clients
• Generate financial statements and reports detailing accounts receivable status

 

Qualifications

• Proven working experience as accounts receivable clerk, accounts receivable manager or accountant
• Solid understanding of basic accounting principles, fair credit practices and collection regulations
• Proven ability to calculate, post, and manage accounting figures and financial records
• Data entry skills along with a knack for numbers
• Hands-on experience in operating spreadsheets and accounting software (JDE or other full-scale ER software)
• Proficiency in English and in MS Office
• Customer service orientation and negotiation skills
• High degree of accuracy and attention to detail
• BS degree in Finance, Accounting or Business Administration

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Accounts Receivable Clerk
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Accounts Receivable Manager or Finance Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Accounts Receivable Clerk Do?

Accounts Receivable Clerks are financial professionals typically employed by businesses across various industries and sectors.

They can also work as part of finance and accounting firms, or as independent contractors.

Their primary role involves managing the money that is owed to the company by its clients or customers.

This includes keeping track of all transactions, billing customers, and ensuring timely payments.

They are responsible for sending invoices, processing payments, and resolving any discrepancies related to billing.

They handle client inquiries regarding invoices and payments, making sure to maintain good customer relationships and resolve issues promptly.

Accounts Receivable Clerks also perform various administrative duties, such as maintaining accurate records of all transactions, preparing regular financial reports, and assisting with audits.

In addition, they play a key role in the company’s financial management, as their work directly impacts the company’s cash flow and overall financial health.

They work closely with other finance team members, sales, and customer service departments to ensure accurate and timely billing and collections.

 

Accounts Receivable Clerk Qualifications and Skills

An Accounts Receivable Clerk should possess a blend of technical knowledge, analytical abilities, and interpersonal skills to effectively manage and track payments.

These include:

• Proficiency in accounting software and spreadsheets to manage and organize financial data.
• Strong numerical skills for accurate calculations and to understand financial records.
• Attention to detail to ensure that all transactions are recorded correctly and in a timely manner.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple accounts and keep track of all transactions.
• Strong communication skills to relay information about accounts and payments to other departments, clients or vendors.
• Problem-solving skills to identify discrepancies in financial data and find effective solutions.
• Understanding of accounting principles and regulations to ensure that all work is done in compliance with laws and standards.
• Customer service skills to deal with customer queries regarding payments and account information.

 

Accounts Receivable Clerk Experience Requirements

Entry-level Accounts Receivable Clerks are typically expected to have 1 to 2 years of experience in a related role or through an internship in a finance or accounting department.

This experience is often gained through roles such as Junior Accountant, Accounting Assistant, or Billing Clerk.

In addition to the experience, a familiarity with basic accounting principles and software, such as QuickBooks or Microsoft Excel, is usually required.

Some employers may also require candidates to have completed relevant coursework in accounting or finance.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience in Accounts Receivable or a similar role have usually developed their skills and knowledge in managing financial records, processing invoices, and tracking payments.

They may be proficient in using various accounting software and have good analytical skills.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some supervisory experience and may be capable of handling more complex accounts receivable tasks.

They might also be ready for a managerial or team-lead position in the accounting department.

This level of experience often indicates a thorough understanding of accounts receivable procedures and the ability to solve more complex financial issues.

 

Accounts Receivable Clerk Education and Training Requirements

Accounts Receivable Clerks generally need a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, many employers prefer candidates who have completed some level of higher education, such as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in finance, business, or accounting.

Courses in business administration, bookkeeping, and accounting can provide a solid foundation for this role.

Proficiency in computer applications, especially spreadsheet programs, and knowledge of accounting software are also important skills for this role.

While not always a requirement, some employers may prefer Accounts Receivable Clerks who have earned a Certified Bookkeeper (CB) designation, which is offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers.

This certification demonstrates competence in the practical application of bookkeeping skills.

Accounts Receivable Clerks may also benefit from ongoing training and professional development.

This could include courses in advanced bookkeeping, tax preparation, and other accounting-related topics.

Work experience in an office setting, particularly within the financial sector, can also be advantageous.

As with many roles, on-the-job training is often provided to help new clerks become familiar with specific accounting software and procedures used by the company.

 

Accounts Receivable Clerk Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Accounts Receivable Clerk is $38,520 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can vary based on factors such as experience, educational qualifications, the scale of the employing organization, and location.

 

Accounts Receivable Clerk Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Accounts Receivable Clerk need?

An Accounts Receivable Clerk should have strong numerical skills, an eye for detail, and a high degree of accuracy.

These professionals should be proficient in data entry, be able to handle complex calculations, and have a good understanding of financial and accounting principles.

They also need excellent organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines and strong communication skills to deal with customers and colleagues effectively.

 

Do Accounts Receivable Clerks need a degree?

While some Accounts Receivable Clerks may have a degree in finance, accounting, or a related field, it’s not a strict requirement.

Many clerks learn on the job or through vocational training.

However, having a relevant degree or certification like Certified Accounts Receivable Specialist (CARS) can be advantageous and offer better job prospects.

 

What should you look for in an Accounts Receivable Clerk resume?

A prospective Accounts Receivable Clerk’s resume should show evidence of numerical and data entry skills, understanding of accounting software, and experience in handling accounts receivable duties.

Look for demonstrated knowledge of accounting procedures and experience with bank reconciliation and tracking deposits.

A history of accurate record-keeping and strong communication skills should also be evident.

 

What qualities make a good Accounts Receivable Clerk?

A good Accounts Receivable Clerk is precise, reliable, and has a keen eye for detail.

They are excellent multi-taskers, able to handle various duties while ensuring accuracy in data and record-keeping.

They are also proactive problem solvers who can identify any issues in accounts and resolve them efficiently.

Their strong ethical standards ensure they handle financial information with confidentiality and integrity.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Accounts Receivable Clerk?

Hiring an Accounts Receivable Clerk can be challenging due to the specificity of skills and experience required for the role.

It’s important to find a candidate with a strong understanding of accounting principles, familiarity with accounting software, and an ability to handle numerical data accurately.

The candidate should also have strong ethical standards to handle sensitive financial information.

 

Conclusion

And that sums it up.

Today, we’ve demystified the actual role of an accounts receivable clerk.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not all about crunching numbers and spreadsheets.

It’s about steering the financial health of a company, one invoice at a time.

With our definitive accounts receivable clerk job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why stop there?

Go a step further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to a T.

Always remember:

Every invoice processed is a contribution to the larger financial landscape.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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