Property Utility Specialist

The Property Utility Specialist is responsible for the end-to-end management of utility billing, onboarding, and invoice processing for one of our clients. This role ensures utilities are properly onboarded, bills are processed accurately, autopay/e-billing is implemented, and all related systems and controls are maintained with integrity. The ideal candidate is highly detailed, process-oriented, comfortable with multiple stakeholders and systems, and thrives in a fast-paced asset management environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Utility Invoice Processing

• Receive utility invoices and ensure the utility folder is resolved to zero open items by end of day.
• Enter utility invoices per property under the correct name.
• Input utilities into the property management software (e.g., AppFolio) using proper GL accounts and property codes.
• Maintain passwords/logins for utility accounts
• Immediately notify Accounting Supervisor & Treasury Supervisor of any invoice or billing errors.
• Provide a daily End-of-Day report to Accounting Supervisor & Treasury Supervisor documenting utility bills entered.
• Communicate with the Accounting & Treasury Supervisors when a new utility vendor must be created to process invoices.
• Collaborate with Accounting & Treasury Supervisors to resolve any utility invoice anomalies (e.g., unusual charges, late fees).
• Update the "BPO Utilities" channel each day with current status and any late fees observed during bill entry.
• Assist in setting up utility accounts on autopay linked to the property's bank account.
• Assist in enrolling utility accounts to e-billing
• Assist in compiling utility data (usage, invoices, etc.) upon request.
• Participate in daily bank proofing, ensuring utility items are correctly reported

2. Utility Onboarding for New/Transitioning Properties

• Support the onboarding of utilities for properties ensuring 100% completion prior to the transition date.
• Obtain from outgoing management/ownership the list of utilities requiring transition (electric, water/sewer, gas, trash, phone/internet).
• Ensure all new utility accounts are set up under the correct property name
• Ensure utility account logins are created and stored in the Utility/Vendor Account Workbook folder.
• Document each onboarding step on the Onboarding Checklist with supporting documentation (email confirmation, phone confirmation, contract copies).
• Store utility transition confirmations for the property being onboarded.
• Escalate any onboarding barriers (missing information, deposits required, ownership paperwork missing) to the Accounting & Treasury Supervisor immediately.

3. Flexible and Adaptable Work

• As jurisdictions, utility provider practices, lease terms, and internal processes evolve, adapt to changing workflows and procedures.
• Remain responsive to new property acquisitions, portfolio growth or other changes.

Qualifications & Skills

• At least 2 years of experience in utility billing, invoice processing, or property-management accounting highly desirable.
• Strong sense of ownership and proactive communication — someone who will immediately report any problem or barrier (e.g., utility account issues, vendor set-up delays, login access problems) to the appropriate supervisor.
• Prior experience using AppFolio or similar property management accounting software is advantageous.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and ability to learn new systems quickly.
  • Experience managing passwords/logins securely using tools like Keeper Security or similar.
  • Familiarity with electronic billing and autopay setup processes.
• Attention to Detail & Process-Oriented: Proven track record of accurate data entry, following checklists, meeting deadlines (e.g., zero open items by EOD).
• Communication & Collaboration: Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to coordinate with internal teams and external utility providers.
• Problem Solving: Ability to identify anomalies, escalate appropriately and follow through to resolution.
• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple properties/portfolios, daily tasks, reporting requirements and onboarding workflows concurrently.
• Adaptability: Comfortable working in a dynamic environment where policies and programs may change.
• Confidentiality & Integrity: Handle login credentials, financial information and vendor accounts securely and responsibly.

Preferred Qualities

• Prior experience in a real-estate asset management company or multifamily/residential portfolio.
• Experience in handling tenant billing and administrative fee processes.
• Comfortable working under minimal supervision with defined workflows and checklists.
• Initiative to improve processes, suggest efficiencies and maintain a clean inbox/folder system.

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