Cash Application Specialist

The Cash Application Analyst is responsible for supporting accurate and timely application of customer payments while identifying and implementing process improvements that increase efficiency, automation, accuracy, and overall cash application performance. This role combines hands-on cash application expertise with analytical and process improvement capabilities, including the use of automation and technology to streamline transactional activities and reduce manual effort.

The successful candidate will work cross-functionally with Accounts Receivable and business stakeholders to identify opportunities, develop solutions, implement automation, and establish sustainable processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform and/or oversee the accurate and timely application of customer payments to accounts receivable, including lockbox, ACH, and other payment methods.
• Research and resolve unapplied cash, unidentified payments, short payments, deductions, and account discrepancies.
• Analyze cash application processes to identify opportunities for standardization, automation, error reduction, and improved cycle times.
• Lead or support process improvement initiatives designed to reduce manual transactions and improve cash application efficiency.
• Identify repetitive, rules-based activities suitable for automation using available technologies such as robotic process automation (RPA), workflow tools, ERP functionality, artificial intelligence, or other digital solutions.
• Perform root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions to address recurring payment application issues.
• Support automation initiatives impacting Accounts Receivable and cash application.

Required Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in cash applications, accounts receivable, order-to-cash, or a related finance operations environment.
• Strong understanding of cash application processes and accounts receivable transactions.
• Demonstrated experience identifying and implementing process improvements.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and root-cause analysis skills.
• Experience working with ERP and/or accounts receivable systems.
• Advanced Excel skills, including the ability to analyze large data sets and identify trends or process opportunities.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a deadline-driven environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with automation technologies such as RPA, or AI-enabled finance solutions.
• Experience with ERP platforms such as SAP/S4 Hana
• Familiarity with bank, lockbox and payment processing

Core Competencies

• Cash Application Expertise: Strong understanding of payment processing, account reconciliation, unapplied cash, and AR operations.
• Process Improvement: Ability to evaluate current-state processes, identify inefficiencies, and design improved future-state processes.
• Automation Mindset: Ability to recognize opportunities where technology can eliminate manual work, improve accuracy, and increase scalability.
• Problem Solving: Strong ability to investigate issues, determine root causes, and develop sustainable solutions.