all about accounts receivable clerk jobs
To this end, you prepare and send bills, statements and reminders to clients, record and process payments, post financial transactions to an accounting system and possibly make bank deposits. Sometimes you provide other clerical support as needed.
Your job is similar to that of an accounting clerk but more specialized. As a result, your salary may be slightly higher. The skills, training, and experience you gain as an accounts receivable clerk can also open the door to a bright future in other accounting jobs.
what accounts receivable clerk jobs entail
You will likely work closely with other accounting professionals in your department, and may provide support or backup for accounts payable clerks, among others. If you work for a smaller company, you may take on a dual role, performing both accounts payable and accounts receivable duties.
average accounts receivable clerk salaries
An average accounts receivable clerk job will net you a salary between $34,000 and $57,000 in most Canadian markets. If you're just starting your career as an accounts receivable clerk, you can expect a salary in the mid to high $30,000 range, depending on your skills and qualifications. As with many accounting clerk roles, the opportunities to advance your career are plentiful as you gain experience.
Accounts receivable salaries are extremely consistent across Canada, indicating a strong demand for accounting services across the county. No matter where you choose to reside in the country, you should be able to find a variety of accounts receivable jobs that match your skills and experience level.
your day to day tasks
As an accounts receivable clerk, the majority of your responsibilities will revolve around issuing bills and invoices to clients or customers, and collecting or processing payment. Some of the tasks you may encounter will include:
- preparing bills, invoices and account statements
- tracking incoming payments
- recording transactions and verifying they are complete
- issuing credits or refunds
- arranging for payment of accounts
- monitoring accounting systems
- responding to customer inquiries
- making deposits if your company receives money by cash or check
where you can work
The vast majority of businesses in Canada have some financial component, ensuring that accounting jobs, like accounts receivable, are in demand across a wide array of industries and fields. As an accounts receivable clerk, you will usually be employed by a mid to large sized company, where it becomes necessary for accounting clerks to specialize in order to increase efficiency.
The largest employers in the financial industry are banks, however, insurance companies, consulting companies and accounting companies are also employers with large accounting teams.
what you bring to the table
Accounts receivable clerks must have a strong aptitude for math and knowledge of accounting software. Other skills that employers look for in accounts receivable clerks include:
- ability to analyze problems and devise solutions
- a balance of accuracy and efficiency
- general knowledge of accounting
- attention to detail and accuracy
- strong organizational skills
- adherence to ethical standards
- strong communication skills
- English and French bilingualism is an asset
- some roles require you to be bonded
training and certifications
For the most part, accounts receivable clerks are considered entry-level. If you're just starting out in your accounting career, an accounts receivable clerk job is an ideal way to get your foot in the door, so you can work your way up the chain to more advanced accounting roles.
The bare minimum you'll need is a high school diploma, though some employers may look for post-secondary education in accounting, finance or business. Having a deeper level of education can only enhance your employment prospects and earning potential in this field.
Some accounts receivable clerk jobs will also provide on the job training or support to help you continue your education. Take advantage of these opportunities to advance your career.
where your career is headed
As an accounts receivable clerk, there is plenty of room for you to advance your career as you gain experience. Many accounts receivable clerks opt to continue their education and become certified accountants to gain access to new job opportunities with higher pay and other benefits.