Accounts Payable Specialist Job Description Template

Are you looking to hire an Accounts Payable Specialist to join your company? Then you are in the right place. This Free Accounts Payable Specialist Job Description Template includes a list of the most important duties and responsibilities for this position.

It’s not easy to write a good job description that will draw the attention of applicants you are looking for, that is why we are here to help.

With our applicant tracking system, you can use this Accounts Payable Specialist Job Description Template to attract qualified candidates, hire the employees you see fit, and save a lot of time.

You can also customize this template, add anything you want, and post it to job posting sites.

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What is an Accounts Payable Specialist?

Accounts Payable Specialists are in charge of managing all the expenses of businesses, organizations, and companies.

Their duties include analyzing expense reports and invoices, as well as resolving charge expenses and accounting discrepancies.

The Top Accounts Payable Specialist Skills

Skill	Why it's important
Attention to Detail	The smallest error can create big problems, that is why you should always keep your eyes open and be very detail-oriented when it comes to being an accounts' payroll specialist.
Time management	To help you stay focused, be effective, and be in control of the environment, good time management is a great skill to have. You must perform all tasks and responsibilities on time, from monitoring invoices to comparing system reports to balances, knowing what to prioritize and when will help you excel.
Organizational Skills	You are in charge of many different tasks and will be communicating with various departments. Knowing where all your files, invoices, and balance sheets are will enable you to be quicker and smoother.
Math Skills	This position requires some basic numerical skills. Since you will be identifying mistakes and monitoring invoices and spreadsheets, you should have good math skills in order to identify mistakes and calculate costs.
Computer Skills	Knowing how to use software such as MS Office, NetSuite, and Quickbooks can help you perform your job faster and will ease your work schedule. This position requires you to be proficient in bookkeeping software.

Accounts Payable Specialist Job Description Template (Free)

We are looking for someone who is detail-oriented and has great organizational skills to join our team as an Accounts Payable Specialist. Your duties will include processing payments, performing account reconciliations, and processing payments.

In order to be a successful account payable specialist, you should have great knowledge of best practices in accounting, preferably some previous experience in the field, and proficiency in accounting and business management software. Our ideal candidate is someone who holds a bachelor’s diploma in accounting or a similar field of study and has great time management skills and accounting expertise.

Accounts Payable Specialist Duties & Responsibilities:

Paying vendors, resolving purchase orders, and payment discrepancies, and verifying vendor accounts
Reconciling, receiving, processing, and verifying invoices
Verifying entries by comparing system reports to balances
Preparing financial reports and performing record keeping
Being up-to-date with regulatory requirements and good practices in accounting
Monitoring salary advancements, overtime payments, and payroll expense claims
Issuing stop payments and purchase order amendments
Collaborating with different departments to interpret, gather, and analyze relevant financial data
Controlling cash spending and charging expenses to accounts

Accounts Payable Specialist Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree or associate’s degree in accounting, economics, finance, or related field.
Previous experience as an accounts payable specialist
Proficiency in accounting and business management software (Zoho Books and NetSuite)
High-level knowledge of accounts payable principles, industry policies, and regulations, and accounting standards
Great attention to detail
Excellent communication skills
Good time management skills and organizational skills
Experience in account reconciliation

Sample Interview Questions for an Accounts Payable Specialist

Once you collect all the received applications, you can use these sample interview questions for an Accounts Payable Specialist.

Personal

Why did you want to become an accounts payable specialist?
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Why did you leave your previous job?

Human Resources

How would you describe being a team player?
What would you do if you saw someone being mistreated in the office?

Management

Do you have any strategies for staying organized and keeping accounts on track?
Do you have any specific booking software you like to work on or have worked on in the past?
What would you do if a vendor said they did not receive their check, but you’ve sent it in the mail?

Technical Skills and Knowledge

Are you familiar with MS Office and other software programs needed for this position?
How do you look for mistakes?
How do you organize your files?

What are the Educational Requirements for an Accounts Payable Specialist?

High School Diploma or Equivalent

The minimum educational requirement for an Accounts Payable Specialist is typically a high school diploma or its equivalent. This level of education provides foundational knowledge in mathematics, computer literacy, and communication skills necessary for entry-level accounting positions.

Associate Degree in Accounting or Related Field (Optional)

While not always required, some employers may prefer candidates with an associate degree in accounting or a related field. An associate degree provides more in-depth knowledge of accounting principles, financial analysis, and computerized accounting systems, enhancing the candidate’s qualifications for the role.

Relevant Certification (Optional)

Obtaining certification as a Certified Accounts Payable Associate (CAPA) or similar credential is optional but can demonstrate proficiency and commitment to the field. Certification programs cover topics such as accounts payable processes, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance, providing additional validation of the candidate’s skills and expertise.

How Much to Pay an Accounts Payable Specialist when Hiring

Accounts Payable Specialists can earn between $14 and $31 per hour.

Their median annual salary is $42,410, meaning $21 per hour.

These salaries depend on the place of employment, educational background, and previous experience.

Percentile	10%	25%	50% (Median)	75%	90%
Hourly Wage	$14	$17	$21	$26	$31
Annual Wage	$27,050	$33,920	$42,410	$52,430	$63,900

Frequently Asked Questions about Accounts Payable Specialist

What qualifications are necessary to become an Accounts Payable Specialist?

Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, proficiency in accounting software, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills.

Some employers may prefer candidates with an associate degree in accounting or relevant certification.

What are the primary responsibilities of an Accounts Payable Specialist?

Accounts Payable Specialists are responsible for processing invoices, verifying accuracy, reconciling statements, preparing payments, and maintaining vendor records.

They ensure timely payment of bills while adhering to company policies and regulatory requirements.

How does an Accounts Payable Specialist contribute to financial operations?

Accounts Payable Specialists play a crucial role in maintaining accurate financial records and ensuring the smooth flow of payments to vendors and suppliers.

By managing accounts payable processes efficiently, they contribute to the overall financial health and operational efficiency of the organization.

What skills and qualities are essential for success as an Accounts Payable Specialist?

Key skills for Accounts Payable Specialists include attention to detail, proficiency in accounting software and spreadsheets, strong communication and interpersonal skills, ability to multitask and prioritize tasks, and knowledge of accounting principles and regulations.

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