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Class Description and Minimum Qualifications for G4A - Collections Representative

Class Description

Valid as of: July 1, 2018

This class series uses three levels in the Administrative Services and Related Occupational Group and describes debt collections work. Work involves collecting debts by locating persons and working with them to arrange for the voluntary payment of a variety of debts and loans. This includes establishing the payment schedules and/or terms to bring accounts current; informing and advising debtors of obligations, policies, and regulations pertaining to loans and debts and consequences of non-payment; initiate and implement garnishments and recommend suits; maintaining computerized debtor records and documenting collection activity; determining a debtor's ability to pay and account disposition, i.e., is account collectible, should it be litigated, referred to an outside collection agency, or written off as uncollectible; calculating amounts that are payable and crediting accounts with payments received; reporting credit information; performing skip traces; and processing bankruptcy filing information. Some positions may utilize tax/vendor offset and recommend wage attachment and litigation. Included in this series are positions that apply established debt collection practices, standards, rules, regulations, methods, techniques, and procedures to carry out collection processes or supervise the collections operation for an agency.

COLLECTIONS REPRESENTATIVE I G4A1XX

Concept of Class

This class describes first working level collections work. Positions at this level perform intern level assignments and are not expected to perform the full range of debt collections work. Because of the structure of assignments, decision making and complexity are limited to carrying out prescribed work processes and operations by following and applying instructions, procedures, and rules. Tasks performed at this level may be the same as the fully-operational level but are performed with more direction and assistance and provide the experience necessary to function at the fully-operational Collections Representative II level. Work involves providing information and answering questions on delinquent accounts, calculating amounts due, sending out notices of payments due, crediting accounts with payments, maintaining computerized records, and documenting collection activity and other activities described above under the Description of Occupational Work section.

Factors

Allocation must be based on meeting all of the three factors as described below.

Decision Making 

The decisions regularly made are at the defined level, as described here. Within limits prescribed by the collection operation, choices involve selecting alternatives that affect the manner and speed with which collection tasks are carried out. These choices do not affect the standards or results of the operation itself because there is typically only one correct way to carry out the operation. These alternatives include independent choice of such things as priority and personal preference for organizing and processing the work, proper tools or equipment, speed, and appropriate steps in the operation to apply. By nature, the data needed to make decisions can be numerous but are clear and understandable so logic is needed to apply the prescribed alternative. For example, a position decides the most efficient steps to follow to collect monies due from delinquent accounts and records and credits payments received by following specific instructions, policies, and procedures. Positions can be taught what to do to carry out assignments and any deviation in the manner in which the work is performed does not change the end result of the operation.

Complexity 

The nature of, and need for, analysis and judgment is prescribed, as described here. Positions apply established, standard collection guidelines which cover work situations and alternatives. Action taken is based on learned, specific collection guidelines that permit little deviation or change as the task is repeated. Any alternatives to choose from are clearly right or wrong at each step. For example, a position applies specific collection practices, techniques, methods, and instructions when completing tasks such as, locating debtors, arranging payment schedules, calculating amounts due, providing information on delinquent accounts, and crediting payments received.

Line/Staff Authority 

The direct field of influence the work of a position has on the organization is as an individual contributor. The individual contributor may explain work processes and train others. The individual contributor may serve as a resource or guide by advising others on how to use processes within a system or as a member of a collaborative problem-solving team. This level may include positions performing supervisory elements that do not fully meet the criteria for the next level in this factor.

COLLECTIONS REPRESENTATIVE II G4A2XX

Concept of Class

This class describes fully-operational level collections work. Positions at this level perform the full range of collections work by studying and analyzing account and debtor records and information, determining solutions to obtain payment or prevent default on an obligation, and applying the most appropriate collections practice, standard, rule, regulation, method, technique, or procedure. Work involves performing tasks such as, informing and advising debtors of obligations, policies, and regulations about loans and debts and the consequences of non-payment; collecting debts by recommending liens and garnishments; maintaining computerized debtor records and documenting collection activity; and determining a debtor's ability to pay and account disposition. Positions at this level are expected to exercise a higher degree of decision making and complexity than the lower level Collections Representative I by performing the full range of collections work described under the Description of Occupational Work section with less direction and assistance. The Collections Representative II differs from the Collections Representative I on Decision Making, Complexity, and Purpose of Contact.

Factors

Allocation must be based on meeting all of the three factors as described below.

Decision Making 

The decisions regularly made are at the operational level, as described here. Within limits set by the specific collection process, choices involve deciding what operation is required to carry out the process. This includes determining how the operation will be completed. By nature, data needed to make decisions are numerous and variable so reasoning is needed to develop the practical course of action for each collections case within the established process. Choices are within a range of specified, acceptable standards, alternatives, and technical practices. For example, a position determines the most cost effective collections alternative to locate persons and obtain payment or prevent default on obligations by applying the full range of established collections practices, standards, rules, regulations, methods, techniques, or procedures.

Complexity 

The nature of, and need for, analysis and judgment is patterned, as described here. Positions study collection records and information to determine what it means and how it fits together in order to get practical solutions in the form of payment plans and schedules or prevention of defaults. Guidelines in the form of collections practices, standards, rules, regulations, methods, techniques, or procedures exist for most situations. Judgment is needed in locating and selecting the most appropriate of these guidelines which may change for varying collections circumstances as the task is repeated. This selection and interpretation of guidelines involves choosing from alternatives where all are correct but one is better than another depending on the given collections circumstances of the situation. For example, a position selects and applies the appropriate collections practice, technique, or method based on evaluation and interpretation of the circumstances of the individual collection case to be resolved.

Line/Staff Authority 

The direct field of influence the work of a position has on the organization is as an individual contributor or work leader. The individual contributor may explain work processes and train others. The individual contributor may serve as a resource or guide by advising others on how to use processes within a system or as a member of a collaborative problem-solving team. This level may include positions performing supervisory elements that do not fully meet the criteria for the next level in this factor.

OR

The direct field of influence the work of a position has on the organization is as a work leader. The work leader is partially accountable for the work product of two or more full-time equivalent positions, including timeliness, correctness, and soundness. At least one of the subordinate positions must be in the same series or at a comparable conceptual level. Typical elements of direct control over other positions by a work leader include assigning tasks, monitoring progress and work flow, checking the product, scheduling work, and establishing work standards. The work leader provides input into supervisory decisions made at higher levels, including signing leave requests and approving work hours.

COLLECTIONS REPRESENTATIVE III G4A3XX

Concept of Class

This class describes first supervisory level collections work. Positions at this level ensure the collections work unit operation is carried out in accordance with established policies, procedures, rules, and regulations. In addition to the supervisory duties described at this level, some positions also perform collections work identified at the Collections Representative II class. The Collections Representative III differs from the Collections Representative II on the Line/Staff Authority factor only.

Factors

Allocation must be based on meeting all of the three factors as described below.

Decision Making 

The decisions regularly made are at the operational level, as described here. Within limits set by the specific collection process, choices involve deciding what operation is required to carry out the process. This includes determining how the operation will be completed. By nature, data needed to make decisions are numerous and variable so reasoning is needed to develop the practical course of action for each collections case within the established process. Choices are within a range of specified, acceptable standards, alternatives, and technical practices. For example, a position determines the most cost effective collections alternative to locate persons and obtain payment or prevent default on obligations by applying the full range of established collections practices, standards, rules, regulations, methods, techniques, or procedures. A position also determines the most effective way to implement and carry out changes in collection work processes and operational procedures.

Complexity 

The nature of, and need for, analysis and judgment is patterned, as described here. Positions study collections records and information to determine what it means and how it fits together in order to get practical solutions in the form of payment plans and schedules or prevention of defaults. Guidelines in the form of collections practices, standards, rules, regulations, methods, techniques, or procedures exist for most situations. Judgment is needed in locating and selecting the most appropriate of these guidelines which may change for varying collections circumstances as the task is repeated. This selection and interpretation of guidelines involves choosing from alternatives where all are correct but one is better than another depending on the given collections circumstances of the situation. For example, a position selects and applies the appropriate collections practice, technique, or method based on evaluation and interpretation of the circumstances of the individual collection case to be resolved.

Line/Staff Authority 

The direct field of influence the work of a position has on the organization is as a unit supervisor. The unit supervisor is accountable, including signature authority, for actions and decisions that directly impact the pay, status, and tenure of three or more full-time equivalent positions. At least one of the subordinate positions must be in the same series or at a comparable conceptual level. The elements of formal supervision must include providing documentation to support recommended corrective and disciplinary actions, signing performance plans and appraisals, and resolving informal grievances. Positions start the hiring process, interview applicants, and recommend hire, promotion, or transfer.

Entrance Requirements

Minimum entry requirements and general competencies for classes in this series are contained in the State of Colorado Department of Personnel website. For purposes of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the essential functions of specific positions are identified in the position description questionnaires and job analyses.

History of Changes Made to Class Description

The​ ​following​ ​is​ ​a​ ​summary​ ​of​ ​changes​ ​made​ ​to​ ​this​ ​class description.

Effective July 1, 2018

Update the Class Code of G4A1TX to G4A1XX per administrative updates.

June 30, 2015

Updated and removed the purpose of contact.

Revised July 1, 2012

Changes to pay grades for each class. Added work leader to Collections Representative II (G4A2). Published as proposed 6/3/2011.

Effective July 1, 1999

Collections Representative IV (G4A4) abolished as vacant. Published as proposed 4/16/1999.

Effective September 1, 1993

Job Evaluation System Revision project. Published as proposed 6/1/1993.

Revised July 1, 1991

Grade for A1180X Collections Representative A and A1181X Collections Representative B.

Revised July 1, 1990

Grade for A1180X Collections Representative A, A1181X Collections Representative B, A1182X Senior Collections Representative and A1183X Collections Supervisor.

Revised January 1, 1989

Class code, education and experience, substitution for A1183X Collections Supervisor and A1184X Collections Manager.

Revised December 1, 1988

Education and experience for A1180X Collections Representative A and A1181X Collections Representative B.

Created December 1, 1988

A1182X Senior Collections Representative.

Created March 1, 1986

A1180X Collections Representative A, A1181X Collections Representative B, A1183X Collections Supervisor and A1184X Collections Manager.

Summary of Factor Ratings

Class LevelDecision MakingComplexityLine/Staff Authority
Collections Representative IDefinedPrescribedIndividual Contributor
Collections Representative IIOperationalPatternedIndividual Contributor or Work Leader
Collections Representative IIIOperationalPatternedUnit Supervisor

Minimum Qualifications

Valid as of: November 28, 2023

This​ ​document​ ​includes​ ​the​ ​following​ ​levels:
 

Class TitleClass Code
Collections Representative IG4A1XX
Collections Representative IIG4A2XX
Collections Representative IIIG4A3XX

COLLECTIONS REPRESENTATIVE I (G4A1XX)

Experience Only:

Two (2) years of relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to this position

OR

Education and Experience:

A combination of related education and/or relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned equal to two (2) years.

COLLECTIONS REPRESENTATIVE II (G4A2XX)

Experience Only:

Three (3) years of relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to this position

OR

Education and Experience:

A combination of related education and/or relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned equal to three (3) years.

COLLECTIONS REPRESENTATIVE III (G4A3XX)

Experience Only:

Four (4) years of relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned to this position

OR

Education and Experience:

A combination of related education and/or relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned equal to four (4) years.

History of Changes Made to Minimum Qualification

The​ ​following​ ​is​ ​a​ ​summary​ ​of​ ​changes​ ​made​ ​to​ ​this​ ​minimum​ ​qualification.

Nov. 28, 2023 (Whole Document)
  • New format (updating to adhere to accessibility standards)
  • Updated minimum qualifications to align with the Skills-based Hiring initiative
July 1, 2018 (G4A1TX changed to G4A1XX)

Review and correction of the classification codes to align with the 2018-19 pay plan and compensation grades approved by the CHRO.

Oct. 20, 2017 (Whole Document)

Made grammatical changes.

June 1, 2017 (Whole Document)
  • Part of the 2017 MQ Project
  • New format
  • Language referring to demonstrated proficiency substituting at the agency’s discretion has been removed
  • Language was standardized and made more general to allow agencies to specify as appropriate and when supported in job analysis and position descriptions