Job Type: Temp (3 months) with the potential to convert
Location: Reston, VA – hybrid (3 days onsite, 2 days remote)
We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Freelance Accounts Receivable Specialist to support our client’s finance team on a contract basis. In this role, you will oversee the full lifecycle of accounts receivable activities, from invoicing and payment application to collections and reconciliations. You will work closely with internal stakeholders and customers to ensure accurate billing, timely payments, and clean, well-documented account records.
This freelance position is ideal for an experienced AR professional who is comfortable working independently, managing a defined portfolio, and collaborating virtually with a results-driven team. You should be able to commit to agreed-upon deadlines and be available for scheduled meetings during core business hours as needed.
Responsibilities
- Generate, review, and issue customer invoices in accordance with contract terms and internal policies
- Monitor accounts receivable aging reports and execute structured follow-up on past-due balances
- Process and apply customer payments (checks, ACH, wires, credit cards) accurately and promptly
- Research and resolve discrepancies related to billing, credits, short payments, and unapplied cash
- Perform periodic account reconciliations to ensure accurate customer account balances
- Communicate with customers via email and phone to address payment inquiries, disputes, and escalations
- Collaborate with Sales, Customer Support, and Finance to resolve complex account or billing issues
- Maintain clear documentation of actions, communications, and resolutions in AR and CRM systems
- Provide weekly status updates on aging, collection efforts, and key risk accounts
- Support month-end close activities related to AR, including reporting, reconciliations, and audit support
Qualifications
- 3+ years of experience in accounts receivable, billing, or related accounting function
- Proven track record managing AR aging portfolios and driving collection outcomes
- Solid experience with accounting software and AR modules; familiarity with CRM tools is a plus
- Intermediate to advanced Excel skills (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, data filtering and analysis)
- Strong analytical, organizational, and time-management skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills and a professional, service-oriented approach with customers
- High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and personal accountability
- Understanding of basic accounting principles, including debits/credits and revenue recognition fundamentals
- Ability to work effectively in a remote freelance environment, meeting deadlines and agreed performance targets
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field preferred, or equivalent practical experience
