An accounts payable specialist works with all facets of the accounting system, principally the validation, processing, and filing of invoices. The specialist must make sure that all invoices are accurate and have been properly documented and approved by the authorizing employee prior to making a payment. Once the proper verifications and authorizations are received, the specialist is responsible for submitting payments in a timely fashion. This position also requires preparing and mailing checks, as well as verifying and procuring proper Internal Revenue Service documentation such as 1099 and W-9 forms from vendors. The specialist also files and maintains files for all invoices, accounts payable payments, and tax information for vendors.

An accounts payable specialist works with individuals at all levels of the company, including management staff who must authorize payments. A specialist also works with many vendors; an accounts payable specialist is the first point of contact for vendors if there is a question about an invoice or their timely receipt of payment. The work environment typically is an office setting, with no outdoor work or travel, during standard business hours.

The qualities an accounts payable specialist must possess are attention to detail, experience in bookkeeping or accounts payable, and strong written and oral communications skills. They should be familiar with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word. They should also be able to speak with vendors in a friendly and professional manor. A high school diploma is required. (Copyright 2018 PayScale.com)

Accounts Payable Specialist Tasks

• Analyze, prioritize, code and pay bills and invoices, managing vendor or supplier expectations.
• Make timely payments for internal vouchers and expenses.
• Reconcile financial statements and forecasts, maintaining files for accounts.
• Answer inquiries from vendors, suppliers, and employees, and research discrepancies.
• Write and send checks, recording transactions on internal systems.