Accounts Payable Specialist

Summary/Objective

The Accounts Payable Specialist II plays a key role in ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of the AP department by managing slightly more complex tasks, such as reconciling vendor statements, resolving discrepancies, and acting as a first line of defense for AP-related issues. This role is pivotal in maintaining smooth workflows and ensuring compliance with company policies.

Essential Functions

• Perform complex reconciliations of vendor statements, ensuring that all payments, credits, and debits are accurately reflected.
• Oversee the PO entry process and troubleshoot any errors that arise, ensuring invoices match POs and receiving documents.
• Serve as the first point of contact for resolving escalated issues related to invoices, purchase orders, or payment discrepancies.
• Communicate with vendors to negotiate payment terms, resolve disputes, and clarify discrepancies.
• Assist in the preparation and processing of payment batches, including ACH, wire transfers, and check runs.
• Collaborate with internal departments to address coding errors, discrepancies in charges, and unapproved invoices.
• Participate in training junior team members (AP Specialist I) to develop their skills and ensure department-wide consistency.
• Support the AP Lead with month-end closing tasks, including preparing reconciliations and assisting with audits.
• Other duties as assigned by the AP Lead or Manager.

Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, particularly in reconciling complex vendor accounts.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Excellent communication skills for negotiating with vendors and resolving issues internally.
• Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Excel (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUP) and accounting software.
• Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to maintaining accuracy in all financial processes.

Education and Experience

• Associate’s degree in accounting or a related field preferred.
• 2-3 years of experience in Accounts Payable or a similar finance-related role.