Accountant - AP Specialist

Our Mission:

To enable people in our community to break the cycle of poverty and to reach their full potential.

Our Values:

Compassion
* Respect
* Integrity
* Teamwork
* Excellence

JOB SUMMARY:

The Accounts Payable Specialist serves as the primary owner of the organization's disbursement cycle. Reporting directly to the CFO, this individual is responsible for the full-cycle accounts payable process, ensuring that all obligations are met accurately, timely, and in compliance with internal controls and grant requirements.

ESSENTIAL

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Invoice Processing

Enter vendor invoices into accounting system accurately and timely
Code invoices to appropriate accounts, grants, and programs
Match invoices to purchase orders and receiving documents
Scan and file invoices in document management system
Prepare payment batches for review
Verify mathematical accuracy of invoices
Review invoices for adherence to tax exempt status where applicable
Identify and flag discrepancies for review

Payment Processing Support

Assist with preparation of check runs and electronic payments
Print checks and prepare for mailing
Process wire transfers and ACH payments as directed
Maintain check stock and ensure secure storage
Track and file payment confirmations
Maintain organized filing of payment documentation

Vendor Support

Respond to routine vendor inquiries regarding payment status
Update vendor contact information and payment terms in system
Collect W-9 forms from new vendors
Assist with vendor statement reconciliations
Assist with 1099 filing and year end vendor validation
Communicate payment schedules to vendors as needed

Credit Card and Expense Processing

Code and enter credit card transactions
Process employee expense reimbursement requests
Verify receipts and documentation completeness
Route expense reports for appropriate approvals
Maintain organized files of credit card and expense documentation

Administrative Support

Maintain organized filing system for AP documentation
Assist with month-end close activities as assigned
Prepare reports on AP aging, cash requirements, and payment activity
Assist with various audit requests through research and documentation
Support special projects as assigned

SKILLS

Attention To Detail - Ability to accurately enter data, match invoices to supporting documents, and catch discrepancies or errors in invoicing and payment processing.
Organization and Time Management - Capable of managing multiple deadlines simultaneously, maintaining organized filing systems, and prioritizing tasks to meet payment schedules.
Basic Accounting Knowledge - Understanding of accounts payable processes, ability to code expenses to appropriate accounts, and familiarity with basic accounting terminology and principles.
Communication Skills - Able to interact professionally with vendors via phone and email, ask clarifying questions when needed, and escalate issues appropriately.
Professional Discretion & Critical Thinking - Ability to handle sensitive financial information and exercise sound judgment when identifying urgent payment needs or potential internal control weaknesses.

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Associates degree with concentration in accounting, finance, or related field, or
2 year AP experience in an allocation environment preferred
Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
Not-for-profit experience highly desired.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word required; experience with accounting software (Net Suite) preferred

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Performing the duties of this job requires frequent walking and standing in and around the office. Must be able to occasionally lift loads of 20 pounds without assistance and the ability to sit, talk and hear is required. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

LIMITATIONS AND…