Accounts Payable Specialist

Responsibilities

• Process accounts payable transactions including invoices, payment requests, purchase orders, requisitions, expense reimbursements, and other disbursement-related documentation in accordance with established policies and deadlines.
• Review invoices and supporting documentation for accuracy, completeness, proper approvals, account coding, and compliance with College purchasing policies and procedures.
• Ensure all expenditures are properly authorized and supported by required documentation prior to payment processing.
• Perform compliance review of purchasing activities to ensure adherence to institutional procurement policies, grant restrictions, budget limitations, and internal control requirements.
• Aid faculty and staff with purchase requisitions, purchasing procedures, vendor setup, and payment-related questions.
• Monitor and verify open commitment reports to ensure outstanding purchase orders and encumbrances are reviewed, reconciled, and resolved in a timely manner.
• Process employee travel requests, travel authorizations, and expense reimbursements while ensuring compliance with college travel policies and IRS guidelines.
• Support grant accounting activities by tracking expenditures, reviewing grant-related purchases for allowability, and maintaining documentation required for audits and reporting.
• Maintain accurate financial records and documentation in accordance with record retention requirements and audit standards.
• Absorb and respond to month-end and year-end closing activities, including reconciliations, accrual support, and reporting as requested.
• Care for and maintain fixed asset records, including tracking purchases, tagging assets, inventory support, and ensuring proper capitalization in accordance with College policies.
• Research and resolve invoice discrepancies, vendor issues, payment delays, and account variances in a timely and professional manner.
• Communicate effectively with vendors and internal departments to ensure prompt resolution of payment and purchasing concerns.
• Serve as backup support for accounts receivable functions, including receipting, deposits, and student/customer payment processing, as needed.
• Aid with audits by preparing reports, supporting documentation, and responding to requests for financial records.
• Maintain confidentiality of financial, vendor, and student-related information.
• Support continuous improvement efforts within the Business Office by identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and customer service.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Two (2) years of experience in accounts payable, bookkeeping, accounting support, finance, purchasing, or related office operations required; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Associate degree in accounting, business, finance, or related field preferred.
• Experience working in accounts payable, purchasing, or accounting in higher education, government, or similarly regulated environments preferred.
• Experience with enterprise financial systems such as Workday, Banner, or similar ERP systems preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in processing high-volume financial transactions.
• Working knowledge of accounting principles, accounts payable procedures, and purchasing practices.
• Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, and compliance requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Strong customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing as part of a team.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Ability to identify discrepancies and resolve issues proactively.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness
• Dental plan with no-cost preventive services and coverage for orthodontia
• Vision plan with low-cost exams and allowances for glasses or contact lenses
• Employee Assistance Program offering no-cost confidential counseling sessions, legal consultations, financial planning consultations, and other resources
• Wellness program with opportunities to earn $250 in Wellness Rewards
• Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare (limited purpose) and dependent care
• Retirement & Financial Security
• 10% employer retirement contribution, fully vested after two years
• Basic life insurance equal to annual salary paid by the College, with optional supplemental coverage
• Short-term and long-term disability benefits
• Educational Benefits
• Fee remission for employees, spouses, and dependent children
• Tuition assistance for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs
• Paid professional development opportunities
• Work‑Life Balance
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, holidays, and winter recess
• Flexible work arrangements where available
• Paid childbirth recovery leave (8 weeks)
• Paid parental leave (4 weeks)
• Additional Perks
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness
• Additional discounts on gym memberships, transportation, and various retail services