Office Assistant

This position is open due to an internal hiring! ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Provides daily customer service functions in person, by telephone, and electronically. Establishes and terminates accounts. Explains procedures and policies as it relates to customer service. Schedules service appointments and prepares routine work orders. Receives and receipts customer payments. Receives and investigates customer inquiries, referring unresolved matters to the Office Manager. Responds to calls from service crews. Sorts and distributes incoming mail and processes outgoing mail as necessary. Sorts and reviews customer water payments entering into the computer daily Accurately maintains related payment records including penalties, miscellaneous charges, and under- and over-payments. Receives, receipts, and records customer payments for bills, disconnection notices, deposits, and related charges. Maintains and monitors delinquent accounts daily. Mails late notices and orders disconnection of water service in compliance with applicable regulations. Negotiates payment plans for overdue accounts. Contacts customers as required. Contacts night personnel as necessary to advise of potential collections. Provides collection data for Maine Public Utilities Commission’s annual report. Files small claims suits, submits bankruptcy claims, files liens, testified in court, and performs other collection functions, as needed. Assists customers with electronic accounts and payments. Maintains accurate spreadsheet of all A/R transactions, performs end-of-month reconciliation, and provides reconciled date to Finance Manager. Investigates and resolves issues with unpaid miscellaneous billings. Pursues disconnection of service Cross-trains with Billing Specialist, and other office staff Must get along with others and work in a professional manner. Maintains regular, predictable, and reliable attendance. Maintains excellent communication and fosters a collaborative working environment with all departments as well as with the public. Places an emphasis on safety, efficiency, quality, and productivity. Follows all District policies. Performs related duty and special projects, as assigned. KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS: Demonstrated knowledge of standard bookkeeping. Knowledge of standard office practices and ability to use office standard office equipment. Knowledge of computerized billing/payment systems, electronic data transfers, Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook. Proficient oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills. ABILITY TO: Understand and explain Bangor Water District’s bill computation. Perform accurate calculations. Implement standard Bangor Water District procedures, and Maine Public Utilities Commission regulations pertaining to billing and service standards. Type with speed and accuracy Effectively communicate verbally and in writing Maintain effective working relationships with the staff, customers, and other agencies. Interact with co-workers, customers, the Board of Trustees, and members of the general public in a professional, courteous, effective, and tactful manner. Create and maintain accurate records and files. Manage multiple tasks in a detailed and effective manner. Attend any required or recommended courses or training. RECOMMENDED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Experience and Education/Training: Associate degree in business administration or the equivalent, preferred. Three (3) years of progressively responsible accounts receivable/collections and business office experience, including working with the general public. Job Type: Full-time Pay: $23.08 - $31.15 per hour Expected hours: 40 per week Benefits: 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance Schedule: 8 hour shift Day shift Monday to Friday Work Location: In person