WHAT IS AN AP SPECIALIST ?
The Accounts Payable Specialist is responsible for the daily processing of all invoices, including those from subcontractors, ensuring their proper filing and tracking. They play a crucial role in maintaining strong relationships with each subcontractor through regular meetings, facilitating the review and approval of invoices by managers. Additionally, this position handles the preparation of inventory purchase orders in response to requests, overseeing their submission for managerial approval.
Need-to-Know Overview of an Accounts Payable Specialist
1. Accounts Payable Specialist Roles and Responsibilities
- Perform monthly inventory count and inventory reconciliation
- Prepare monthly Subcontractor Matrix report
- Work with Subcontractors for any discrepancy issues
- Process employee expense reports and other A/P related check requests
- Negotiate expense pay terms with vendors
- Assist in the financial accounting period close process
- Generate system A/P aging reports
- Bank account reconciliation & Monthly Cash Flow
- Perform monthly General Ledge entries and reconciliation
- Assist Accounting Team with Inventory forecasting.
- Prepare appropriate schedules and reports as requested
- Assist with office and sales & service team operations in other areas and in various projects.
- Inventory control experience is strongly preferred
- Associate degree in Accounting required.
2. Accounts Payable Specialist Skills, Abilities and Experience
- Bachelor's in Accounting/Finance desired.
- Thorough understanding of GAAP and Accounting principles
- Intermediate to advanced level Excel
- Strong analytical, research and problem solving skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Docs with an emphasis on Excel
- Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet tight deadlines
- Detail oriented with a high level of accuracy
- Strong written and verbal communication skill
- Outstanding organizational skill
- Excellent attention to detail.
- A proactive attitude
Career Overview FAQs
What does a career overview explain?
A career overview explains what a profession involves, including the purpose of the role, the type of work professionals typically perform, and how the position contributes to organizations or industries. It helps readers understand the field before exploring more detailed resources such as job responsibilities, required skills, and career requirements.
What do professionals in this career typically do?
Professionals in this field usually manage projects or tasks, collaborate with teams, analyze information, and solve problems related to business or organizational objectives. Daily responsibilities may vary depending on experience level, specialization, and the organization where the role is performed.
What skills are commonly required for this career?
Most careers require a combination of technical skills related to the profession and professional skills such as communication, teamwork, problem solving, and analytical thinking. These abilities help professionals perform effectively in different work environments and across various organizational roles.
What is the typical career path in this field?
Many professionals begin in entry-level roles where they gain foundational knowledge and practical experience. Over time, they may progress to mid-level or senior positions that involve greater responsibility, specialization, or leadership within their organization or industry.
How can someone start a career in this field?
Starting a career in this field typically involves building relevant knowledge, gaining practical experience, and developing the key skills associated with the profession. Preparing strong application materials, such as a targeted resume and cover letter, can also help candidates pursue entry-level opportunities successfully.
Editorial Process
Lamwork content is developed through structured review of publicly available job postings and documented hiring trends.
Editorial operations are managed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor, with research direction and final oversight by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead. Content is periodically reviewed to reflect observable labor market changes.