Accounts Payable Specialist

The Accounts Payable Specialist is responsible for managing and processing outgoing payments in an accurate complete and timely manner. This role ensures that all invoices expense reports and related transactions are properly reviewed approved coded and recorded. The Accounts Payable Specialist plays a key role in maintaining vendor relationships supporting internal departments and ensuring financial accuracy and compliance with company policies and accounting standards. This is a Contract to Hire position and all candidates must be local to St. Louis MO.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Invoice Processing

• Review and verify invoices for accuracy and completeness.
• Match invoices to purchase orders and receipts; resolve discrepancies as needed.
• Code invoices to appropriate accounts and departments.
• Ensure proper approval of non-purchase order invoices before processing.

2. Payment Processing

• Prepare and process payments via checks ACH wire transfers or other methods.
• Ensure payments are issued within agreed terms to avoid late fees and capture discounts.
• Maintain records of all outgoing payments.

3. Vendor Management

• Respond to vendor inquiries and resolve payment-related issues in a timely manner.
• Maintain positive relationships with external vendors and internal stakeholders.
• Ensure credits are applied for outstanding memos or returns.

4. Reconciliation and Reporting

• Reconcile vendor statements and account balances regularly.
• Investigate and resolve any variances or discrepancies.
• Process employee expense reports in line with policy ensuring accuracy and proper approvals.
• Support credit card reconciliation and receipt matching processes.

5. Documentation and Compliance

• Maintain accurate and organized documentation for all accounts payable activities.
• Ensure adherence to company policies accounting regulations and audit requirements.
• Assist with month-end and year-end closing processes.

6. Internal Collaboration

• Communicate effectively with internal departments to resolve invoice or payment issues.
• Support financial reporting and analysis by providing accurate data as requested.
• Assist with process improvements and efficiency initiatives within the accounts payable function.

• Associate or Bachelors degree in Accounting Finance or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Previous experience in accounts payable accounting or finance is preferred.
• Working knowledge of accounting principles and practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting or ERP systems.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.