Accounts Payable SpecialistJob Description
Everything recruiters need to write, post, and fill a accounts payable specialist role—fast.
Job Description Sample
Need a clear, ready-to-use job description? Copy, paste, and hire faster.
Job Title: Accounts Payable Specialist
Location: [City, State/Remote/Hybrid]
Type: Full-time
About the Role:
We're seeking a detail-oriented Accounts Payable Specialist to manage our invoice processing and vendor payment operations. You'll ensure financial accuracy while maintaining positive vendor relationships.
Key Responsibilities:
- Process high-volume invoices with accurate coding
- Match invoices to purchase orders and receipts
- Prepare and schedule payments via check, ACH, wire
- Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies
- Maintain vendor files and payment documentation
- Research and resolve invoice issues promptly
- Support month-end close procedures
- Ensure compliance with payment terms and policies
Perks:
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Professional development opportunities
- Flexible work arrangements
- Collaborative team environment
Accounts Payable Specialist Responsibilities
Hiring a accounts payable specialist? Here's what you can expect them to handle:
- Review and process vendor invoices for accuracy and approval
- Enter and upload invoices into accounting software systems
- Schedule and execute payments via multiple methods
- Reconcile vendor accounts and resolve payment discrepancies
- Maintain organized digital and physical AP files
- Respond to vendor inquiries and payment status requests
- Assist with month-end closing and financial reporting
- Monitor payment terms to capture early payment discounts
Qualifications to Be a Accounts Payable Specialist
Here's what a solid candidate typically brings to the table:
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field3-5 years of accounts payable experienceProficiency with accounting software and ERP systemsAdvanced Microsoft Excel skills with formulas and functionsStrong understanding of accounts payable processes and controlsAccounts Payable Specialist Prerequisites
Before you even think of hiring, make sure your candidates have:
Knowledge of payment processing methods and proceduresAbility to manage high-volume invoice processingStrong attention to detail and accuracyExcellent organizational and time management skillsEffective communication skills with vendors and internal teamsAccounts Payable Specialist Hard Skills
The “must-haves” on every recruiter's checklist:
Accounting Software: QuickBooks, SAP, OracleERP Systems: NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, WorkdayMicrosoft Office: Excel (VLOOKUP, pivot tables), WordPayment Platforms: ACH, wire transfer systemsDocument Management: scanning, digital filing systemsData Analysis: financial reporting, variance analysisAP Automation Tools: invoice processing softwareDatabase Management: data entry, query systemsAccounts Payable Specialist Soft Skills
Tech skills get them in the door—soft skills help them stick around.
Strong attention to detail and accuracyExcellent problem-solving and analytical thinkingEffective time management and prioritizationClear written and verbal communicationAbility to work independently and collaborativelyAdaptability to changing priorities and deadlinesProfessional vendor relationship managementEthical judgment and confidentiality maintenanceAccounts Payable Specialist Salary by Experience Level
Entry Level (0-2 Years)
$42k – $52k
Common Titles
Junior Accounts Payable Specialist, Associate Accounts Payable Specialist
Mid Level (2-5 Years)
$51k – $63k
Common Titles
Accounts Payable Specialist, Accounts Payable Specialist II
Senior Level (5+ Years)
$63k – $78k
Common Titles
Senior Accounts Payable Specialist, Lead Accounts Payable Specialist
Frequently Asked QuestionsAbout Accounts Payable Specialist Hiring
An AP Specialist typically handles more complex tasks including vendor reconciliations, discrepancy resolution, and month-end processes, while an AP Clerk focuses on basic data entry and invoice processing. Specialists usually require 3-5 years of experience versus 1-2 years for clerks and command higher salaries.
Yes, relevant experience can substitute for formal education. Candidates with 5+ years of progressive AP experience and professional certifications (like Certified Accounts Payable Associate) can be equally qualified. Focus on demonstrated proficiency with accounting software and process knowledge during evaluation.
Prioritize technical skills first—candidates must demonstrate proficiency with accounting software, Excel, and ERP systems. However, attention to detail and problem-solving abilities are equally critical since errors can be costly. Use practical assessments to test both during interviews.
Provide a sample invoice matching exercise with intentional discrepancies or a spreadsheet reconciliation task. Ask candidates to walk through their process for resolving a three-way match issue. This reveals their attention to detail, problem-solving approach, and technical proficiency.
Watch for candidates who can't explain basic AP processes like three-way matching, lack experience with month-end closing, or show poor attention to detail in their resume. Inability to discuss specific accounting software or explain how they've resolved vendor disputes indicates insufficient experience.
Tools and Programs Accounts Payable Specialist Use
Here's what their digital toolbox might look like:
Accounting Software
QuickBooks•SAP
ERP Systems
Oracle•NetSuite
Spreadsheet Tools
Microsoft Excel•Google Sheets
Payment Systems
ACH platforms•wire systems
Document Management
Adobe Acrobat•scanning software
AP Automation
Bill.com•Tipalti
Communication
Email•Microsoft Teams
Database Systems
SQL•Access
Job Description Examples
.NET Architect.NET DeveloperAccountantAccounting ManagerAccounts Payable ClerkAccounts Payable SpecialistAI/ML EngineerAI/ML InternAndroid ArchitectAndroid DeveloperAndroid Developer InternAngular DeveloperAngular Developer InternApp ArchitectApp DeveloperApp Developer InternApp Development ManagerAssistant Brand ManagerAssistant Communications ManagerAssistant Community ManagerAssistant Ecommerce ManagerAssistant Events ManagerAssistant PR ManagerAssociate Brand ManagerAssociate Communications ManagerAssociate Ecommerce ManagerAssociate Events ManagerAssociate Product ManagerAzure ArchitectAzure EngineerAzure Engineer InternBackend ArchitectBackend EngineerBackend Engineer InternBookkeeperBrand Management InternBrand ManagerBusiness Analyst InternCloud ArchitectCloud EngineerCloud Engineer InternCloud Engineering ManagerCommunications EngineerCommunications Engineer Intern
.NET Architect.NET DeveloperAccountantAccounting ManagerAccounts Payable ClerkAccounts Payable SpecialistAI/ML EngineerAI/ML InternAndroid ArchitectAndroid DeveloperAndroid Developer Intern
Angular DeveloperAngular Developer InternApp ArchitectApp DeveloperApp Developer InternApp Development ManagerAssistant Brand ManagerAssistant Communications ManagerAssistant Community ManagerAssistant Ecommerce ManagerAssistant Events Manager
1of9
...
Page 1 of 9 • Showing 1-44 of 367 job titlesShowing 1-44 of 367 titles
Related Articles
