Collector Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of consumerism, the role of collectors has never been more critical.

As the world of commerce evolves, the need for skilled professionals who can locate, acquire and appraise valuable items grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a collector?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the art of collecting,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable collector job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Collector Duties and Responsibilities

Collectors play an important role in recovering the amounts owed to companies or organizations by late or delinquent payers.

They are tasked with communicating with debtors, setting up repayment plans, and documenting recovery actions.

Here are some of the main duties and responsibilities of a collector:

• Locate and communicate with debtors regarding overdue payments
• Record information about financial status of customers and status of collection efforts
• Arrange repayment plans based on customers’ financial situations
• Track and report on recovery actions
• Negotiate credit extensions when necessary
• Ensure fair debt collection practices are maintained
• Resolve disputes related to payments or account statuses
• Communicate regularly with management regarding collection progress
• Perform administrative tasks such as data entry and filing
• Stay current on regulations and laws related to debt collection
• Maintain a professional and respectful approach while dealing with debtors

 

Collector Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a reliable and professional Collector to assist in recovering the money owed in as little time as possible.

Your main responsibilities will include contacting debtors, negotiating repayment plans, and ensuring compliance with state and federal laws.

Our ideal candidate is effective in dealing with people, has good negotiation and persuasion skills and maintains a high level of professionalism and ethics.

Ultimately, the role of the Collector is to ensure that our company recovers its due credits while treating our clients with dignity and respect.

 

Responsibilities

• Contacting debtors and negotiate payment plans
• Keeping accurate records and reporting on collection activity
• Identify gaps in the system and recommend solutions
• Build trust with debtors
• Update account status and database regularly
• Comply with requirements when legal action is unavoidable

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a collector or in a similar role
• Experience in working with targets and tight deadlines
• Knowledge of relevant legal requirements
• Working knowledge of MS Office and databases
• Excellent communication and people skills
• Apt in negotiating and persuading
• Ability to be polite and compassionate without lacking confidence
• High school diploma; associate’s/bachelor’s degree is a plus

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Collector
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Regular interactions with clients might be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Collection Manager or Finance Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $55,000 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 a Collector Do?

Collectors, also known as collections agents, work for various types of businesses, primarily in the financial sector such as banks, credit card companies, or debt collection agencies.

They also work for retail businesses, medical offices, utility companies and more.

Their main role is to recover the amount due from consumers or businesses who have not fulfilled their payment obligations on time.

They do this by contacting debtors via phone calls, emails, or letters to negotiate repayment plans.

Collectors review the debtor’s financial circumstances, determine an appropriate payment plan, and follow up regularly to ensure the agreed payment schedule is being adhered to.

They are also responsible for keeping accurate and up-to-date records of all communication and transactions with the debtor.

In cases where the debtor refuses to pay or is unable to pay, collectors may initiate legal action by submitting the account to an attorney or selling the debt to a collections agency.

It’s important for collectors to comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including those related to debt collection, consumer rights, and privacy.

 

Collector Qualifications and Skills

Collectors require a range of skills and qualifications to effectively manage accounts and negotiate payments, including:

• Negotiation skills to reach payment arrangements that are acceptable for both the debtor and the organization.
• Communication skills to interact with debtors, convey information about the debt, listen to debtor concerns and requests, and work towards resolution.
• Customer service skills to treat each debtor with respect and understanding, maintaining a professional and courteous attitude even in difficult interactions.
• Detail-oriented and organized to accurately record information, track multiple accounts, and follow legal and company guidelines in debt collection processes.
• Problem-solving skills to assess debtor situations and develop appropriate solutions that satisfy the debt without causing undue hardship.
• Knowledge of collection strategies and laws regulating debt collection to ensure all actions are legal, ethical, and effective.
• Patience and resilience to handle potentially stressful and negative interactions, remaining calm and professional at all times.
• Basic computer skills to manage databases, input and retrieve information, and use collection software as required.

 

Collector Experience Requirements

Collectors typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and may also benefit from a background in customer service or sales.

Entry-level positions may require minimal experience, often gained through part-time roles, internships or on-the-job training.

Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience as a collector often have a solid understanding of collections techniques and regulations, as well as experience dealing with customers or clients.

This may be gained through working in roles such as Customer Service Representative or Sales Associate.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience typically have developed strong negotiation skills, experience in resolving disputes, and a comprehensive understanding of credit management.

They may have begun their career in entry-level collector roles and grown their expertise over time.

Collectors with more than 5 years of experience often have a proven track record of successful collections and may have experience leading a team or overseeing a collections department.

These seasoned professionals are often ready for managerial or supervisory roles within the collections industry.

 

Collector Education and Training Requirements

Collectors typically require a high school diploma or GED equivalent, although some employers may prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in fields like business, finance, or a related area.

Collectors need to have strong communication and negotiation skills, often acquired through on-the-job training.

This training will usually cover the company’s policy and legal aspects of collections, and the best ways to identify and communicate with debtors.

Some states require collectors to be licensed.

These licenses usually require the individual to be 18 or older, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass a criminal background check.

For those seeking advancement in the field, certification from the American Collectors Association or a similar organization can be beneficial.

The certification process generally involves completing coursework and passing an exam.

Continued education in law, finance, and communications can also be beneficial for a career in collections.

 

Collector Salary Expectations

A Collector, specifically a debt collector, earns an average salary of $36,020 (USD) per year.

However, the earnings can vary widely depending on the complexity of the debts collected, experience, location, and the employing company.

Some collectors may also earn a commission based on the amount of debt they are able to recover.

 

Collector Job Description FAQs

What skills does a collector need?

A collector should have excellent communication and negotiation skills to persuade debtors to pay their outstanding debts.

They also need to be patient, empathetic, and respectful when dealing with people in stressful financial situations.

Basic computer skills are also necessary as they use specific software to track debts and payments.

 

Do collectors need a degree?

While a degree is not required for most collector roles, having a diploma or degree in finance, business administration, or a related field can be an advantage.

Most employers provide on-the-job training to ensure collectors understand the laws and regulations related to debt collection.

 

What should you look for in a collector resume?

Experience in a customer service role is beneficial as it showcases the candidate’s ability to handle challenging situations and conversations.

Familiarity with collection laws and regulations, as well as experience with collection software, is a plus.

Look for strong negotiation and problem-solving skills, and a track record of successfully recovering debts.

 

What qualities make a good collector?

A good collector is persistent and consistent, yet respectful and empathetic.

They should have strong negotiation skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

Good collectors also need to be detail-oriented to track and manage a large number of accounts and adhere to relevant laws and regulations.

 

Is it difficult to hire collectors?

Finding skilled collectors can be challenging due to the specific skill set the role requires.

It’s important to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract the best candidates.

Providing a supportive work environment that includes training and advancement opportunities can also help attract and retain quality collectors.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a collector.

And guess what?

It’s not just about collecting items.

It’s about preserving history, one piece at a time.

With our handy collector job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to start your journey.

But why limit yourself?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your guide to creating meticulous listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every item collected is a piece of the grand mosaic.

Let’s preserve the past. Together.

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