Collections Specialist (Employer Compliance & Collections Specialist)

Department of Labor Job Class Code:0752 Grade: 20/Professional & Technical Salary: $20.68-$28.88/Hour Location: Augusta Opening Date : June 26, 2025 Closing Date:July 11, 2025 Do you have a sharp eye for detail and a passion for public service? We're seeking a driven professional to join our team in an advanced collection role focused on unemployment contribution debt. In this position, you'll manage complex, high-priority employer accounts, working to recover delinquent unemployment taxes while ensuring compliance with state regulations. If you're a problem-solver who thrives on challenges and knows how to get results, we want to hear from you!We offer a flexible hybrid remote and in-office work schedule.Primary responsibilities include:Examines employer records to determine which collection action would be most effective to bring employer into complianceAnalyze records to determine who the responsible party is for employer debtArrange for settlements and payment agreements and other advanced collection activitiesDetermine when collection efforts are no longer effective, and request write offField inbound calls to provide effective customer service to employers regarding their Unemployment Contributions accountSkills or knowledge required:Customer Service – written and verbal communication, active listening, empathy, identifying needs, clarifying information.Problem Solving – ability to analyze a situation, review possible actions and identify the best solution.Negotiation – negotiating terms of settlements and payment plans.Attention to Detail – reviewing employer accounts for accuracy of filingMinimum qualifications:Education, training, and/or experience in accounting, business administration, economics, or another related field demonstrating competency in analyzing financial and tax documents, providing customer service, interpreting rules and regulations, and developing and implementing practical solutions.Preference will be given to those applicants:Prior experience in collections, accounts receivable, payroll processingContact information:Questions about this position should be directed to Melissa Merrithew Melissa.J.Merrithew@maine.gov 207-621-5177Application Instructions:Interested applicants need to apply online by selecting the "Apply for this opening" button along with uploading a cover letter, current resume, and copies of any transcripts or certifications you wish to have considered while evaluating your application.In order for us to properly determine if you meet the minimum qualifications for any posting, you must be sure your resume includes month and year for any experience listed along with the duties and responsibilities associated with each particular time period.Any experience that was not full-time employment should be identified as such.If you require a paper application, please download and print one herehttps://www.maine.gov/bhr/state-jobs/application-processor contact our office at 207-623-6700.Paper applications for this posting should be submitted along with cover letter and resumebefore the closing dateto Security & Employment Service Center, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta, ME04330 or faxed to 207-287-2018.Be sure title of the job you are applying for is included.Applications cannot be accepted after the posting closing date.Benefits of working for the State of Maine:No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto—"Dirigo" or "I lead"—as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including:Work-Life Fit– Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.Health Insurance Coverage– The State of Maine pays85%-95%of employee-only premiums ($11,196.96 - $12,514.32 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find thepremium costsfor you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.Dental Insurance– The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($387.92 annual value).Retirement Plan– The State contributes the equivalent of 13.29% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS) for MSEA, or 18.09% for Confidential employees.State employees are eligible for anextensive and highly competitive benefits package , covering many aspects of wellness. Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from theOffice of Employee Health and Wellness .Note: Benefits may vary somewhat according to specific collective bargaining agreements and are prorated for anything less than full-time.There's a job and then there's purposeful, transformative work. Our aim is to create a workplace where you can learn, grow, and continuously refine your skills. Applicants demonstrate job requirements in differing ways, and we appreciate that many skills and backgrounds can make people successful in this role.As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics.If you’re looking for a great next step, and want to feel good about what you do, we’d love to hear from you. Please note reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.Thinking about applying?Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. If you’re currently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your lived experience and passion set you apart.