Junior Accountant- Accounts Payable Specialist

About the role

The primary mission of the Junior Accountant/Accounts Payable Specialist is to be a key member of the accounting and finance team. This position plays a crucial role in the timely and accurate processing of vendor payments and maintaining financial records related to accounts payable using the National Information Solutions Cooperative (NISC) software. The Junior Accountant/Accounts Payable Specialist will collaborate with various departments and vendors to ensure the efficient management of accounts payable functions.

Responsibilities

• Invoice Processing: Receive, review, and process invoices in accordance with VEC’s policies and procedures using the NISC software. Match invoices with purchase orders and verify accuracy of billing details, pricing, and payment terms.
• Vendor Management: Maintain positive relationships with vendors and respond to inquiries regarding payment status, discrepancies, and billing issues promptly and professionally.
• Payment Processing: Prepare and process payments for approved invoices, including checks, electronic funds transfers (EFTs), and Automated Clearing House (ACH) transactions through the NISC software.
• Data Entry and Coding: Accurately enter data related to accounts payable, including invoice details, expense allocations, and general ledger coding, ensuring proper classification and accurate financial reporting.
• Reconciliation: Regularly reconcile accounts payable transactions with vendor statements and resolve any discrepancies or outstanding items.
• Month-end Close: Assist in the month-end closing process by ensuring all accounts payable entries are accurately recorded and financial records are up to date.
• Compliance: Adhere to all relevant laws, regulations, and company policies related to accounts payable, data protection, and financial transactions.
• Documentation: Maintain organized and complete records of accounts payable transactions, invoices, and payment documents.
• Reporting: Prepare periodic reports on accounts payable status, aging analysis, and cash flow projections to support management decision-making.
• Process Improvements: Identify opportunities for process improvements within the accounts payable function, streamline procedures, and suggest enhancements to the NISC software.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth coordination of payment processes and resolve any payment-related issues effectively.

Requirements

High School diploma or GED required. Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is preferred. Relevant work experience in accounts payable can be considered in lieu of formal education. Proven experience in accounts payable processes, preferably within an electric cooperative or utility company.

Must be able to occasionally lift 10 to 20 pounds. Visual acuity and manual dexterity to enter and verify data in the computer. Interacts with outside agencies and auditors. Listens and communicates orally with employees, auditors, and outside agencies. While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to: Sit, stand, and walk to enter and verify data. Bend, stoops, squats, and lifts to retrieve supplies, file, etc. Cycled work activities on a repetitive basis.

Skills

• Familiarity with NISC software or similar accounting software is highly advantageous.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and record-keeping.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel, for data manipulation and analysis.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with vendors and internal stakeholders effectively.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Understanding of financial