A typical day begins by reviewing computer systems to identify overdue accounts and prioritize collection efforts based on account age and amounts owed. Collectors spend significant time making phone calls to customers, explaining account status, listening to payment concerns, and negotiating realistic repayment schedules based on individual financial situations. They document all customer interactions, update account records with new contact information or payment arrangements, and prepare reports for supervisors when accounts require escalation. Administrative tasks include posting received payments to customer accounts, preparing statements for credit departments, and coordinating with legal teams when repossession or service disconnection becomes necessary. Throughout the day, they respond to incoming customer calls about account questions and work to resolve disputes or billing errors.
Successful bill and account collectors possess exceptional oral communication skills and emotional resilience to handle difficult conversations with stressed customers. They demonstrate high dependability and attention to detail, as evidenced by the job's emphasis on these work styles, ensuring accurate record-keeping and consistent follow-through on collection efforts. Strong problem-solving abilities help them navigate complex customer situations and find mutually acceptable payment solutions. Individuals who thrive maintain self-control during challenging interactions while showing empathy for customers facing financial hardship, balancing firmness in collection goals with understanding of human circumstances.
Collection work faces moderate automation risk as routine account monitoring and initial contact attempts can be automated through predictive dialers and AI-powered systems. However, the core activities requiring negotiation, empathy, and complex problem-solving with distressed customers remain largely automation-resistant, as evidenced by the high importance ratings for resolving conflicts and establishing interpersonal relationships.
Postings appear within hours of going live on the source ATS. No aggregator lag. Direct from source.
| TERM | COUNT | FREQ | BAR | SOURCE ATTRIBUTION |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tendency | 42 | 0.0154 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| others | 39 | 0.0143 | onet dimensi 97% dwas 3% | |
| customers | 23 | 0.0084 | onet tasks 39% inference 26% | |
| equipment | 23 | 0.0084 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| financial | 18 | 0.0066 | dwas 39% inference 33% | |
| collection | 18 | 0.0066 | inference 56% wikipedia 33% | |
| customer | 16 | 0.0059 | inference 56% onet dimensi 25% | |
| principles | 16 | 0.0059 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| account | 13 | 0.0048 | inference 62% dwas 31% | |
| includes | 13 | 0.0048 | onet dimensi 92% wikipedia 8% | |
| control | 13 | 0.0048 | onet dimensi 92% inference 8% | |
| objects | 12 | 0.0044 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| accounts | 11 | 0.0040 | onet tasks 55% inference 45% | |
| problems | 11 | 0.0040 | onet dimensi 82% onet tasks 9% | |
| ideas | 11 | 0.0040 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| materials | 10 | 0.0037 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| techniques | 10 | 0.0037 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| activities | 10 | 0.0037 | onet dimensi 90% inference 10% | |
| body | 10 | 0.0037 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| personal | 9 | 0.0033 | onet dimensi 67% onet tasks 11% | |
| debt | 9 | 0.0033 | wikipedia 56% onet tasks 22% | |
| credit | 9 | 0.0033 | onet tasks 56% inference 44% | |
| records | 9 | 0.0033 | dwas 44% onet tasks 22% | |
| administrative | 9 | 0.0033 | onet dimensi 44% inference 44% | |
| actions | 9 | 0.0033 | onet dimensi 89% onet tasks 11% | |
| monitoring | 9 | 0.0033 | onet dimensi 89% inference 11% | |
| problem | 9 | 0.0033 | onet dimensi 78% inference 22% | |
| services | 9 | 0.0033 | onet dimensi 67% inference 33% | |
| management | 9 | 0.0033 | onet dimensi 78% inference 22% | |
| resources | 9 | 0.0033 | onet dimensi 100% |
Provenance Window — Full Source Record · 43-3011.00 · Bill and Account Collectors 7 source blocks · click to expand
[Core] [70% incumbents] Locate and notify customers of delinquent accounts by mail, telephone, or personal visits to solicit payment. DWAs: Provide notifications to customers or patrons. [Core] [70% incumbents] Locate and monitor overdue accounts, using computers and a variety of automated systems. DWAs: Monitor financial information. [Core] [70% incumbents] Arrange for debt repayment or establish repayment schedules, based on customers' financial situations. DWAs: Negotiate financial arrangements. [Core] [70% incumbents] Answer customer questions regarding problems with their accounts. DWAs: Respond to customer problems or complaints. [Core] [70% incumbents] Persuade customers to pay amounts due on credit accounts, damage claims, or nonpayable checks, or to return merchandise. DWAs: Negotiate financial arrangements. [Core] [70% incumbents] Confer with customers by telephone or in person to determine reasons for overdue payments and to review the terms of sales, service, or credit contracts. DWAs: Discuss account status or activity with customers or patrons. [Core] [70% incumbents] Receive payments and post amounts paid to customer accounts. DWAs: Collect deposits, payments or fees. [Core] [70% incumbents] Trace delinquent customers to new addresses by inquiring at post offices, telephone companies, credit bureaus, or through the questioning of neighbors. DWAs: Obtain personal or financial information about customers or applicants. | Interview employees, customers, or others to collect information. [Core] [70% incumbents] Notify credit departments, order merchandise repossession or service disconnection, and turn over account records to attorneys when customers fail to respond to collection attempts. DWAs: Provide information to coworkers. [Core] [70% incumbents] Perform various administrative functions for assigned accounts, such as recording address changes and purging the records of deceased customers. DWAs: Maintain financial or account records. [Supplemental] [70% incumbents] Contact insurance companies to check on status of claims payments and write appeal letters for denial on claims. DWAs: Collect deposits, payments or fees. [Supplemental] [70% incumbents] Negotiate credit extensions when necessary. DWAs: Negotiate financial arrangements. [Core] [69% incumbents] Record information about financial status of customers and status of collection efforts. DWAs: Maintain financial or account records. [Core] [69% incumbents] Advise customers of necessary actions and strategies for debt repayment. DWAs: Discuss account status or activity with customers or patrons. [Core] [69% incumbents] Sort and file correspondence and perform miscellaneous clerical duties, such as answering correspondence and writing reports. DWAs: Sort mail. | Maintain medical records. | File documents or records.
--- SKILLS --- Active Listening (imp:3.88 lvl:3.62) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand Speaking (imp:3.88 lvl:3.62) — Talking to others to convey information effectively. Writing (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc Reading Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:3.62) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents. Critical Thinking (imp:3.12 lvl:3.50) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ Monitoring (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization Active Learning (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr Mathematics (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — Using mathematics to solve problems. Learning Strategies (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo Science (imp:1.00) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems. --- KNOWLEDGE --- English Language (imp:4.09 lvl:4.08) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea Customer and Personal Service (imp:3.77 lvl:5.18) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic Mathematics (imp:3.31 lvl:3.61) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl Economics and Accounting (imp:3.26 lvl:3.15) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar Law and Government (imp:3.25 lvl:2.71) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat Computers and Electronics (imp:3.12 lvl:4.19) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput Administration and Management (imp:3.07 lvl:4.27) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, Administrative (imp:3.07 lvl:4.09) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce Production and Processing (imp:2.35 lvl:2.00) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot Education and Training (imp:2.24 lvl:2.06) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching Communications and Media (imp:2.23 lvl:2.27) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m Sales and Marketing (imp:2.14) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products Foreign Language (imp:2.04 lvl:1.81) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu Telecommunications (imp:1.91 lvl:1.32) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te Psychology (imp:1.85 lvl:1.36) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, Personnel and Human Resources (imp:1.74 lvl:1.35) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.59) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human Public Safety and Security (imp:1.57) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote Engineering and Technology (imp:1.27) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th Geography (imp:1.26) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an Building and Construction (imp:1.14) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r Design (imp:1.13) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.12) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.10) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i Mechanical (imp:1.08) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.08) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their Transportation (imp:1.08) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea Food Production (imp:1.06) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food History and Archeology (imp:1.02) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi Physics (imp:1.00) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, Chemistry (imp:1.00) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a Biology (imp:1.00) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd Fine Arts (imp:1.00) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform --- ABILITIES --- Oral Comprehension (imp:3.75 lvl:3.88) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through Oral Expression (imp:3.75 lvl:3.88) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde Written Comprehension (imp:3.62 lvl:3.75) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. Speech Recognition (imp:3.62 lvl:3.00) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person. Speech Clarity (imp:3.62 lvl:3.00) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you. Written Expression (imp:3.50 lvl:3.50) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under Near Vision (imp:3.25 lvl:3.50) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer). Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no Category Flexibility (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping Selective Attention (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac Deductive Reasoning (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that Inductive Reasoning (imp:2.88 lvl:3.12) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion Information Ordering (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according Number Facility (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly. Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob Perceptual Speed (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.50 lvl:2.75) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas Originality (imp:2.50 lvl:2.62) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa Far Vision (imp:2.50 lvl:2.62) — The ability to see details at a distance. Flexibility of Closure (imp:2.38 lvl:2.88) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so Time Sharing (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of Memorization (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced Visualization (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when Finger Dexterity (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot Hearing Sensitivity (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch Auditory Attention (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra Speed of Closure (imp:2.00 lvl:2.12) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea Visual Color Discrimination (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c Depth Perception (imp:1.50 lvl:0.75) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:1.38 lvl:0.75) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold Manual Dexterity (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your Control Precision (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi Trunk Strength (imp:1.38 lvl:0.62) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:1.25 lvl:0.38) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and Dynamic Strength (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv Spatial Orientation (imp:1.00) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher Multilimb Coordination (imp:1.00) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or Response Orientation (imp:1.00) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o Rate Control (imp:1.00) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an Reaction Time (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou Speed of Limb Movement (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs. Static Strength (imp:1.00) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects. Explosive Strength (imp:1.00) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping Stamina (imp:1.00) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti Extent Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs. Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo Gross Body Coordination (imp:1.00) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:1.00) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta Night Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see under low-light conditions. Peripheral Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting. Sound Localization (imp:1.00) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated. --- WORK ACTIVITIES --- Working with Computers (imp:4.16 lvl:2.52) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.95 lvl:4.29) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your Documenting/Recording Information (imp:3.92 lvl:3.22) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:3.90 lvl:3.37) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:3.66 lvl:3.44) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, Getting Information (imp:3.65 lvl:3.92) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.58 lvl:3.83) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m Performing Administrative Activities (imp:3.47 lvl:2.70) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:3.42 lvl:3.37) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.30 lvl:2.73) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:3.18 lvl:2.90) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:3.13 lvl:2.58) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:3.10 lvl:2.98) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. Processing Information (imp:3.05 lvl:3.34) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying Training and Teaching Others (imp:2.98 lvl:2.26) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:2.91 lvl:2.94) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:2.88 lvl:1.79) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:2.85 lvl:1.78) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people. Developing and Building Teams (imp:2.83 lvl:1.64) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe Analyzing Data or Information (imp:2.80 lvl:2.02) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:2.77 lvl:2.07) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:2.74 lvl:1.58) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used. Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:2.62 lvl:2.44) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others. Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:2.61) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:2.56) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:2.50 lvl:1.88) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving Coaching and Developing Others (imp:2.50 lvl:2.00) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw Thinking Creatively (imp:2.41 lvl:2.12) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.32 lvl:2.12) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:2.31 lvl:1.79) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money. Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:2.30 lvl:1.59) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks. Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.24 lvl:1.76) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, Performing General Physical Activities (imp:2.14 lvl:0.79) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co Handling and Moving Objects (imp:1.98 lvl:0.85) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, Selling or Influencing Others (imp:1.86 lvl:1.55) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or Staffing Organizational Units (imp:1.55 lvl:0.82) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:1.43) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:1.21) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:1.16) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:1.15) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:1.05) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s --- WORK STYLES --- Dependability (imp:6.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o Attention to Detail (imp:5.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work. Integrity (imp:4.00) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work. Self-Control (imp:3.00) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res Dependability (imp:2.47) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o Attention to Detail (imp:2.28) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work. Self-Control (imp:2.26) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res Integrity (imp:2.17) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work. Perseverance (imp:2.12) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in Stress Tolerance (imp:2.10) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work. Stress Tolerance (imp:2.00) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work. Social Orientation (imp:1.92) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work. Self-Confidence (imp:1.57) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control Achievement Orientation (imp:1.50) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, Initiative (imp:1.13) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may Perseverance (imp:1.00) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in Cautiousness (imp:0.98) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related Adaptability (imp:0.94) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas Empathy (imp:0.62) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel Cooperation (imp:0.49) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work. Optimism (imp:0.45) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un Leadership Orientation (imp:0.32) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work. Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:0.31) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work. Sincerity (imp:0.27) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work. Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work. Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work. Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work. Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work. Cautiousness () — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related Intellectual Curiosity (imp:-0.02) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep Innovation (imp:-0.24) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on Humility (imp:-0.70) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work. --- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS --- Social Perceptiveness (imp:3.38 lvl:3.00) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do. Persuasion (imp:3.38 lvl:3.62) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior. Negotiation (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences. Service Orientation (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — Actively looking for ways to help people. Time Management (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Managing one's own time and the time of others. Coordination (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions. Complex Problem Solving (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev Judgment and Decision Making (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m Instructing (imp:2.38 lvl:2.38) — Teaching others how to do something. Systems Analysis (imp:2.25 lvl:2.38) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best Systems Evaluation (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed Operations Monitoring (imp:1.88 lvl:1.00) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr Quality Control Analysis (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate Troubleshooting (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it. Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.50 lvl:0.75) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the Management of Material Resources (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi Programming (imp:1.25 lvl:0.38) — Writing computer programs for various purposes. Operations Analysis (imp:1.12 lvl:0.25) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design. Technology Design (imp:1.00) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs. Equipment Selection (imp:1.00) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job. Installation (imp:1.00) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications. Operation and Control (imp:1.00) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems. Equipment Maintenance (imp:1.00) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o Repairing (imp:1.00) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
--- NATIONAL WAGES --- total_employment : 158,830 annual_median : $47,030 annual_pct10 : $34,400 annual_pct25 : $39,010 annual_pct75 : $56,740 annual_pct90 : $65,580 annual_mean : $49,060 hourly_median : $22.61 --- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION --- highest_state : District of Columbia ($62,230) lowest_state : Puerto Rico ($25,570) dispersion_ratio : 2.434x --- TOP STATES BY WAGE (53 total) --- Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp: 47,930 median: $ 39,330 Finance and Insurance emp: 36,970 median: $ 48,850 Health Care and Social Assistance emp: 17,470 median: $ 48,600 Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp: 12,340 median: $ 46,650 Management of Companies and Enterprises emp: 11,510 median: $ 50,340 Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp: 5,320 median: $ 50,870 Wholesale Trade emp: 5,270 median: $ 54,930 Retail Trade emp: 4,380 median: $ 38,850 Information emp: 3,400 median: $ 50,250 Transportation and Warehousing emp: 3,300 median: $ 49,590 --- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (18 total) --- Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp: 47,930 median: $ 39,330 Finance and Insurance emp: 36,970 median: $ 48,850 Health Care and Social Assistance emp: 17,470 median: $ 48,600 Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp: 12,340 median: $ 46,650 Management of Companies and Enterprises emp: 11,510 median: $ 50,340 Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp: 5,320 median: $ 50,870 Wholesale Trade emp: 5,270 median: $ 54,930 Retail Trade emp: 4,380 median: $ 38,850 Information emp: 3,400 median: $ 50,250 Transportation and Warehousing emp: 3,300 median: $ 49,590
exact_match_status : no_exact_match matched_title : N/A match_score : 0.0000 wikidata_qid : N/A word_count : 0 wikipedia_url : N/A license : CC BY-SA 4.0 fetched_at : 2026-06-02T22:22:35.915604Z --- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) --- Title: Debt collection (similarity: 0.5238) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Debt_collection QID: Q10535274 Extract: Debt collection or cash collection is the process of pursuing payments of money or other agreed-upon value owed to a creditor. The debtors may be individuals or businesses. An organization that specializes in debt collection is known as a collection agency or debt collector. Most collection agencies Title: Standard Occupational Classification System (similarity: 0.3429) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_Occupational_Classification_System QID: Q7598269 Extract: The Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) System is a United States government system for classifying occupations. It is used by U.S. federal government agencies collecting occupational data, enabling comparison of occupations across data sets. For example, data from the Occupational Requiremen Title: Women in the United States (similarity: 0.3396) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women_in_the_United_States QID: Q17514041 Extract: The legal status of women in the United States has advanced significantly over the past two centuries, but not yet equal to that of men in comparison to other high-income democracies. Title: Professional Sports Authenticator (similarity: 0.4000) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Professional_Sports_Authenticator QID: Q111950745 Extract: Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) is a US based sports card and trading card grading company. Title: Large denominations of United States currency (similarity: 0.3056) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Large_denominations_of_United_States_currency QID: Q968017 Extract: Large denominations of United States currency greater than $100 were circulated by the United States Treasury until 1969. Since then, U.S. dollar banknotes have been issued in seven denominations: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.
model_pass1 : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2 : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes : Strong confidence supported by comprehensive O*NET data including detailed task descriptions, clear skill requirements, and robust wage/employment statistics from BLS OEWS May 2025.
inferred_at : 2026-06-03T22:10:23.482846+00:00
tokens_input : 4,537
tokens_output : 4,197
cost_usd : $0.046096
wikipedia_used : False
wikipedia_title : None
wikipedia_note : No exact Wikipedia match found, though 'Debt collection' provides relevant context about the broader process these specialists facilitate. The occupation focuses on the operational aspects of debt collection rather than the industry overview.
--- PROSE FIELDS ---
ROLE SUMMARY:
Bill and Account Collectors locate and contact customers with delinquent accounts through phone, mail, or personal visits to secure payment arrangements and maintain accurate financial records. These professionals combine administrative duties with negotiation skills, using computer systems to monitor overdue accounts while working directly with customers to resolve payment issues. The role requires strong communication abilities and attention to detail to manage collection processes while maintaining positive customer relationships when possible.
DAY IN THE LIFE:
A typical day begins by reviewing computer systems to identify overdue accounts and prioritize collection efforts based on account age and amounts owed. Collectors spend significant time making phone calls to customers, explaining account status, listening to payment concerns, and negotiating realistic repayment schedules based on individual financial situations. They document all customer interactions, update account records with new contact information or payment arrangements, and prepare reports for supervisors when accounts require escalation. Administrative tasks include posting received payments to customer accounts, preparing statements for credit departments, and coordinating with legal teams when repossession or service disconnection becomes necessary. Throughout the day, they respond to incoming customer calls about account questions and work to resolve disputes or billing errors.
WHO THRIVES:
Successful bill and account collectors possess exceptional oral communication skills and emotional resilience to handle difficult conversations with stressed customers. They demonstrate high dependability and attention to detail, as evidenced by the job's emphasis on these work styles, ensuring accurate record-keeping and consistent follow-through on collection efforts. Strong problem-solving abilities help them navigate complex customer situations and find mutually acceptable payment solutions. Individuals who thrive maintain self-control during challenging interactions while showing empathy for customers facing financial hardship, balancing firmness in collection goals with understanding of human circumstances.
CAREER ENTRY:
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, with 48.1% of workers having this level of education, though 27.4% have some college coursework and 21.1% hold bachelor's degrees. Entry-level candidates benefit from customer service experience and basic computer skills, as the role heavily involves database management and communication systems. Many employers provide on-the-job training covering collection laws, company policies, and specific software systems like QuickBooks or SAP. Strong communication skills and comfort with phone-based work are essential for success in entry-level positions.
CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Bill and account collectors can advance to senior collector positions, collection supervisors, or specialized roles in credit and collections departments within larger organizations. The transferable skills in negotiation, customer service, and financial record management open pathways to related roles such as customer service representatives, credit analysts, or administrative positions in finance and accounting. Some professionals transition to related occupations like credit authorizers or move into broader financial services roles, leveraging their understanding of payment processes and customer financial situations.
MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
The occupation employs 158,830 workers nationwide with a median annual wage of $47,030 according to BLS OEWS May 2025, ranging from $34,400 at the 10th percentile to $65,580 at the 90th percentile. Geographic wage variation is significant, with District of Columbia offering the highest median wage at $62,230 compared to Puerto Rico's $25,570, representing a 2.43x ratio difference. Employment is concentrated in Administrative and Support Services (47,930 workers), Finance and Insurance (36,970 workers), and Health Care and Social Assistance (17,470 workers), reflecting the widespread need for collection services across industries. The job zone 2 classification indicates positions require minimal preparation, making entry relatively accessible while offering stable employment opportunities.
AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Collection work faces moderate automation risk as routine account monitoring and initial contact attempts can be automated through predictive dialers and AI-powered systems. However, the core activities requiring negotiation, empathy, and complex problem-solving with distressed customers remain largely automation-resistant, as evidenced by the high importance ratings for resolving conflicts and establishing interpersonal relationships.
--- REASONED EDGES ---
[task_similarity] Customer Service Representatives (43-4051.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both roles center on communicating with customers to resolve problems and maintain relationships, sharing high importance in oral communication abilities.
data: Oral Comprehension imp:3.8
data: Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating imp:3.7
data: Customer and Personal Service knowledge imp:3.8
[task_similarity] Billing and Posting Clerks (43-3021.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both roles involve receiving payments and posting amounts to customer accounts, requiring similar administrative and record-keeping skills.
data: Receive payments and post amounts paid to customer accounts
data: Documenting/Recording Information imp:3.9
data: Mathematics knowledge imp:3.3
[knowledge_overlap] Credit Authorizers, Checkers, and Clerks (43-4041.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both occupations require extensive knowledge of Economics and Accounting and Customer Service to evaluate financial situations and make credit-related decisions.
data: Economics and Accounting imp:3.3
data: Customer and Personal Service imp:3.8
data: Finance industry employment overlap
[skill_overlap] Tellers (43-3071.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Both roles require identical high-level active listening and speaking skills for customer interactions and financial transaction processing.
data: Active Listening imp:3.9
data: Speaking imp:3.9
data: Customer financial service context
[career_pathway] Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks (43-3031.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Collections work provides foundation in financial record-keeping and accounting principles that transfers to broader accounting roles.
data: Mathematics knowledge imp:3.3
data: Economics and Accounting imp:3.3
data: Maintain financial or account records
--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
match_keywords : ['bill collector', 'account collector', 'collections specialist', 'debt collector', 'receivable specialist', 'collection agent', 'collection representative', 'collection clerk']
exclude_keywords : ['debt counselor', 'credit counselor', 'financial advisor', 'loan officer', 'collections attorney']
title_patterns : ['*Collection*', '*Collector', '*Receivable*', 'Bill*', 'Account*']
common_variations: ['AR Specialist', 'Collections Rep', 'Account Rep', 'Billing Rep', 'Collection Specialist', 'Receivables Clerk', 'Collections Agent', 'Account Recovery']
total_terms : 40 top_words : ['tendency', 'others', 'customers', 'equipment', 'financial', 'collection', 'customer', 'principles', 'account', 'includes', 'control', 'objects', 'accounts', 'problems', 'ideas', 'materials', 'techniques', 'activities', 'body', 'personal'] source_layers : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference TERM COUNT FREQ DOMINANT SOURCE SOURCE BREAKDOWN ────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── tendency 42 0.01543 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% others 39 0.01433 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:97% dwas:3% customers 23 0.00845 onet_tasks onet_tasks:39% inference:26% dwas:22% equipment 23 0.00845 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% financial 18 0.00661 dwas dwas:39% inference:33% onet_dimensions:17% collection 18 0.00661 inference inference:56% wikipedia:33% onet_tasks:11% customer 16 0.00588 inference inference:56% onet_dimensions:25% onet_tasks:12% principles 16 0.00588 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% account 13 0.00478 inference inference:62% dwas:31% onet_tasks:8% includes 13 0.00478 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:92% wikipedia:8% control 13 0.00478 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:92% inference:8% objects 12 0.00441 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% accounts 11 0.00404 onet_tasks onet_tasks:55% inference:45% problems 11 0.00404 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:82% onet_tasks:9% dwas:9% ideas 11 0.00404 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% materials 10 0.00367 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% techniques 10 0.00367 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% activities 10 0.00367 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:90% inference:10% body 10 0.00367 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% personal 9 0.00331 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:67% onet_tasks:11% dwas:11% debt 9 0.00331 wikipedia wikipedia:56% onet_tasks:22% inference:22% credit 9 0.00331 onet_tasks onet_tasks:56% inference:44% records 9 0.00331 dwas dwas:44% onet_tasks:22% inference:22% administrative 9 0.00331 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:44% inference:44% onet_tasks:11% actions 9 0.00331 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:89% onet_tasks:11% monitoring 9 0.00331 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:89% inference:11% problem 9 0.00331 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:78% inference:22% services 9 0.00331 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:67% inference:33% management 9 0.00331 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:78% inference:22% resources 9 0.00331 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% quickly 9 0.00331 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% orientation 9 0.00331 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% situations 8 0.00294 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:50% inference:38% onet_tasks:12% service 8 0.00294 inference inference:50% onet_tasks:25% onet_dimensions:25% attention 8 0.00294 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:75% inference:25% needs 8 0.00294 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% understanding 8 0.00294 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:75% inference:25% procedures 8 0.00294 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% rules 8 0.00294 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% standards 8 0.00294 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100%