Accounts Payable Specialist Job Overview
Discover everything you need to know about becoming a Accounts Payable Specialist. Learn about responsibilities, requirements, salary expectations, and career growth opportunities.
Average Salary
$45k - $68k
Job Growth
8%
Education
Varies
Work Hours
Full-time
A Accounts Payable Specialist is a vital role in the finance industry. This position involves a combination of technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and effective communication.Accounts Payable Specialists play a crucial role in ensuring organizational success through their specialized knowledge and contributions.
The ideal candidate for this Accounts Payable Specialist position should be detail-oriented, adaptable, and committed to continuous learning. This role offers opportunities for career advancement and skill development in a dynamic professional environment.
As a Accounts Payable Specialist, your primary responsibilities include:
- Collaborate with team members to achieve Accounts Payable Specialist objectives
- Maintain accurate records and documentation related to Accounts Payable Specialist activities
- Stay current with industry trends and best practices in Accounts Payable Specialist
- Communicate effectively with stakeholders and team members
- Prepare financial reports and analyses
- Monitor budgets and financial performance
- Ensure compliance with financial regulations
- Conduct financial forecasting and planning
- Manage financial risks and opportunities
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or Business Administration
Required Skills & Experience:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
- Proficiency with industry-standard software and tools
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Strong analytical and mathematical skills
- Proficiency in financial software and Excel
- Knowledge of financial regulations and compliance
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Professional certification (CPA, CFA, etc.) often preferred
Preferred Qualifications:
- Professional certification relevant to the field
- 2-5 years of relevant experience
- Strong portfolio of relevant work (where applicable)
The average salary for a Accounts Payable Specialist ranges from $45k - $68k depending on experience, location, and employer. Factors such as specialized skills, certifications, and industry demand can significantly impact compensation.
Typical Benefits Include:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement savings plans (401k matching)
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development opportunities
- Flexible work arrangements (remote/hybrid options)
Finance roles are typically office-based in corporate settings. The work is deadline-driven, particularly around month-end, quarter-end, and year-end reporting periods. Long hours may be required during busy periods.
Entry-Level Positions:
Junior Accounts Payable Specialist • Accounts Payable Specialist Assistant • Associate Accounts Payable Specialist • Entry-level Accounts Payable Specialist
Mid-Level Positions:
Accounts Payable Specialist • Senior Accounts Payable Specialist • Lead Accounts Payable Specialist • Accounts Payable Specialist II
Senior-Level Positions:
Principal Accounts Payable Specialist • Accounts Payable Specialist Manager • Accounts Payable Specialist Director • VP of Accounts • Chief Accounts Officer
Job Outlook: The Accounts Payable Specialist field is projected to grow by 8% over the next decade, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth indicates strong demand and promising career opportunities for qualified professionals.
AP Specialist, Accounts Payable Clerk
✓ This role may be ideal if you:
- Enjoy solving complex problems and challenges
- Thrive in collaborative team environments
- Are committed to continuous learning and skill development
- Have strong attention to detail and quality
✗ This role might not be ideal if you:
- Prefer working alone without collaboration
- Dislike adapting to new technologies and methods
- Are uncomfortable with deadlines and pressure
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