Accounts Payable Specialist

Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, a 16,000+ acre protected forest in Kentucky, about 25 miles south of Louisville, is seeking an individual to oversee organizational accounts payable, direct the processing of invoices and payments, and manage expense accounts and budget reports.

Bernheim is home to a 600-acre, Level IV accredited arboretum. The natural landscape features 40+ miles of hiking trails and extensive natural areas managed for conservation and research purposes. Its woodlands, prairies, and wetlands make up the largest privately-owned forest in the Eastern United States dedicated to education and conservation. Bernheim is a privately owned not-for-profit, relying on donations and memberships, whose mission is to connect people with nature.

Annually, over 300,000 people experience Bernheim through visits, educational programs, field trips, and Bernheim festivals.

The Accounts Payable Specialist will provide strong leadership over our accounts payable processes and policies to ensure that the department runs smoothly. The Accounts Payable Specialist’s main responsibilities include maintaining accurate records regarding payments to suppliers and processing payments from clients. To succeed as an Accounts Payable Specialist, one will be focused on optimizing departmental processes and building lasting relationships with others within and outside of the business.

• Oversee reports regarding cash flow; ensuring correct payments are made in a timely manner.
• Execute guidelines for proper handling and coding of invoices to maintain general ledger expense account and inventory records.
• Analyze expense reports and other invoices for accuracy and eligibility for payment.
• Verify payments before Controller’s signature is added by reviewing checks and vouchers.
• Reconcile accounts payable total and general ledger with other applicable records (e.g., subsidiary vendors ledger).
• Facilitate correct and timely preparation of budget reports and purchase journals.
• Ensure proper recordkeeping of purchases for use in tax preparation and periodic audits.
• Validate employer identification numbers and/or social security numbers have been collected from all vendors for the payables clerk to prepare and submit 1099s.
• Confirm proper maintenance, filing, and storage of records in case of audits.
• Maintain customer/vendor databases and any additional listings.
• Investigate accounts payable issues as needed.
• Observe confidentiality in all organizational matters.
• Perform other duties as necessary or assigned.

To apply and for more information

Please send all inquiries and resumes to: HR.

This full-time, hourly position reports to the Controller.

Compensation range: $20-$22/hourly.

Competitive benefits package includes: health/vision/dental insurance, retirement 403(b) match benefit and paid sick, holiday and vacation leave.

Bernheim Forest and Arboretum is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Business Administration, with one year of experience in an accounting office; OR three to four years of related accounting experience.
• Ability to work with computer systems, notably Blackbaud products, Financial Edge, Altru, Microsoft Office, and other related programs.
• Knowledge of basic accounting principles, terminology, processes, and procedures are necessary.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Thorough understanding of accounts payable functions.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage high-volume tasks with accuracy.
• A collaborative mindset and a passion for continuous improvement.
• Must be detailed oriented, deadline conscious, and a self-starter.
• Must be a results-driven individual with excellent organizational skills, focusing on timely turnaround times, problem-solving, and efficiency.
• Ability to motivate staff.