Accounting Specialist

Must be able to work in TempeMonday-Friday 7AM-3:30PMThe Accounts Receivable Specialist is responsible for managing all aspects of accounts receivable, including credit evaluation, invoicing, cash application, collections, and compliance. This role supports accurate financial reporting, ensures adherence to internal controls, and collaborates cross-functionally to maintain efficient customer account management.Accounts Receivable & CollectionsManage commercial accounts receivable portfolio, including monitoring outstanding balances and executing collection activitiesEvaluate customer creditworthiness and establish appropriate credit limits and terms based on financial data and payment historyReview customer account performance to support ongoing credit decisions, including shipment approvalsInvoicing & Cash ApplicationPrepare and process all customer invoicing, including sales orders, returns (RMAs), and credit memosAccurately apply incoming cash receipts to customer invoices in a timely mannerEnter invoices and credits into the accounting system and ensure proper documentationSubmit invoices through customer portals and monitor payment statusCompliance, Tax & DocumentationPrepare and file sales tax returns across multiple states in compliance with applicable regulationsEnsure adherence to Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) requirements and internal controlsProvide required documentation, including manufacturing affidavits and licensing, to support customs clearanceGenerate ad hoc and recurring reports as requestedMonth-End Close & Financial SupportPerform month-end accounts receivable close activities, including journal entries, account reconciliations, and accruals (e.g., commissions, shipping and receiving audits)Conduct periodic invoice reviews to ensure accuracy and compliance with company policiesSupport internal and external audit processes by responding to inquiries and providing documentation as neededCross-Functional CollaborationPartner with customer service and internal departments to resolve account discrepancies, establish tax setups, and manage credit termsAdministrative DutiesAdminister and reconcile petty cash in accordance with company policiesJob RequirementsEDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience)3+ years of accounts receivable or general accounting experienceStrong understanding of credit and collections processesKnowledge of sales tax regulations and multi-state compliance preferredExperience with ERP/accounting systems and customer billing portalsProficiency in Microsoft Excel and general computer applicationsStrong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to meet deadlinesSummary of experience needed:Commercial A/R collectionsCredit decisions, both initial based on credit reports, and at time of shipment based on customer performanceReviewing invoice samples throughout the month for correctnessSales tax returns for approx. 8 statesLight journal entry and account reconciliation preparation for A/R related accounts as part of month-end routineInteracting with customer service reps regarding customer accounts, sales tax setup, credit terms, etc.Navigating customer portals for invoice submittals and payment status