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6 Accounts Payable Clerk Job Description Templates and Examples

Accounts Payable Clerks are responsible for managing and processing invoices and payments for a company. They ensure that all invoices are accurate and paid on time, maintaining good relationships with vendors and suppliers. Junior clerks focus on data entry and basic invoice processing, while senior clerks and specialists handle more complex transactions and reconciliations. Supervisors and managers oversee the accounts payable team, ensuring efficient processes and compliance with financial regulations.

1. Junior Accounts Payable Clerk Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are looking for a detail-oriented Junior Accounts Payable Clerk to join our finance team. In this role, you will support the accounts payable process, ensuring accurate and timely processing of invoices and payments while gaining valuable experience in financial operations.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in the processing of invoices, ensuring they are approved and recorded in the accounting system
  • Maintain vendor records, including contact information and payment terms
  • Reconcile accounts payable transactions and resolve discrepancies
  • Support the month-end closing process by preparing accounts payable reports
  • Communicate with vendors regarding payment inquiries and issues
  • Collaborate with the finance team to improve accounts payable processes and workflows

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Associate's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field, or equivalent experience
  • Basic understanding of accounts payable processes and financial principles
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and familiarity with accounting software

Preferred:

  • Experience in an accounts payable or finance role, even in an internship capacity
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Familiarity with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, or similar)
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Word

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a remote setting
  • Strong analytical skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving
  • Commitment to continuous learning and professional development

Benefits and Perks

Salary: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Full-time offers include:

  • Comprehensive health benefits
  • Flexible working hours
  • Remote work stipends
  • Opportunities for professional development and training
  • Paid time off and holidays

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by applicable law. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

Location

This is a fully remote position.

2. Accounts Payable Clerk Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented Accounts Payable Clerk to join our finance team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this role, you will be responsible for managing our accounts payable processes, ensuring accurate and timely processing of invoices, and maintaining positive relationships with our vendors. Your attention to detail and organizational skills will be critical in supporting the financial operations of our company.

Responsibilities

  • Review, verify, and process invoices and expense reports in accordance with company policies
  • Ensure timely payment of vendor invoices while maintaining accurate records
  • Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies in a prompt manner
  • Assist in month-end and year-end closing processes, including preparation of reports
  • Maintain organized records of all accounts payable transactions
  • Collaborate with team members and other departments to enhance the accounts payable process
  • Provide excellent customer service to both internal and external stakeholders

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Associate's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
  • 1+ years of experience in accounts payable or a similar role
  • Strong understanding of accounting principles and practices
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting software
  • Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills

Preferred:

  • Experience with [specific accounting software relevant to the company]
  • Knowledge of tax regulations related to accounts payable
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficient in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle)
  • Strong skills in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel
  • Familiarity with data entry and record-keeping systems

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
  • Proactive problem-solving skills and a detail-oriented approach
  • Positive attitude and a willingness to contribute to team success

Benefits and Perks

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plan with company match
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Opportunities for professional development and growth

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Location

This role requires successful candidates to be based in-person at our office in [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply, even if you don't meet all the qualifications listed.

3. Senior Accounts Payable Clerk Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Senior Accounts Payable Clerk to manage our financial transactions and ensure the accuracy and efficiency of our accounts payable processes. In this role, you will be responsible for processing invoices, maintaining vendor relationships, and ensuring timely payments while adhering to company policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee the full cycle of accounts payable processes, ensuring timely and accurate processing of invoices and payments
  • Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to facilitate smooth financial transactions and address any payment-related issues
  • Maintain accurate records and documentation for all accounts payable transactions
  • Assist in the preparation of financial reports and audits related to accounts payable
  • Implement and maintain internal controls to ensure compliance with financial regulations and company policies

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • 5+ years of experience in accounts payable or a related financial role
  • Strong understanding of accounting principles and accounts payable processes
  • Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Excel, including experience with data analysis and reporting

Preferred:

  • Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or similar
  • Knowledge of tax regulations and compliance related to accounts payable
  • Certification in accounting or finance (e.g., A/P Certification, CPA)

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Expertise in accounts payable software and financial management tools
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret financial data
  • Proficient in using spreadsheet software for financial analysis and reporting

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in financial reporting
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively interact with internal stakeholders and vendors
  • Proactive and solution-oriented mindset, capable of identifying and resolving issues swiftly

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company matching
  • Generous paid time off and holiday policies
  • Professional development opportunities and training programs

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity and inclusion in our workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a remote position within [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

4. Accounts Payable Specialist Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are looking for an Accounts Payable Specialist to join our finance team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this role, you will be instrumental in managing the full accounts payable cycle, ensuring timely and accurate processing of invoices and payments, and maintaining relationships with vendors to facilitate smooth operations.

Responsibilities

  • Process and review incoming invoices for accuracy and compliance with company policies
  • Ensure all payments are processed in a timely manner, maintaining a high level of accuracy
  • Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies in a proactive manner
  • Maintain detailed records of all transactions and prepare reports for management review
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline processes and improve the accounts payable function
  • Assist in month-end close processes, providing required documentation and analysis
  • Support audits by providing necessary documentation and answering inquiries

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • 2+ years of experience in accounts payable or a related field
  • Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment

Preferred:

  • Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or similar
  • Knowledge of GAAP and familiarity with financial regulations

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in accounts payable processes and financial reporting
  • Experience with data entry and invoice processing tools
  • Familiarity with automated AP systems

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to identifying issues
  • Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and discretion
  • A collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment

Benefits and Perks

We offer a comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Competitive salary and performance bonuses
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plan with company match
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.

Location

This is a hybrid position, requiring in-office attendance at least 3 days a week at [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

5. Accounts Payable Supervisor Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

[$COMPANY_NAME] is seeking an experienced Accounts Payable Supervisor to lead and optimize our AP operations. In this hands-on supervisory role you will manage a team responsible for end-to-end accounts payable processing, vendor payments, and monthly close activities while driving process automation, internal controls, and supplier relationships to support accurate financial reporting and cash management.

Responsibilities

  • Supervise daily AP operations including invoice processing, PO matching, three-way matching, exception resolution, and timely vendor payments (ACH, wire, virtual card)
  • Manage, coach and develop an AP team (5–10 FTEs typical), including workload planning, performance reviews, mentoring, and training on systems and controls
  • Own month-end AP close tasks: accruals, account reconciliations, clearing aged items, and preparing schedules for financial reporting and audits
  • Implement and maintain internal controls and SOX-compliant procedures for invoice approval, payment authorization, segregation of duties, and vendor onboarding/KYC
  • Drive continuous improvement and automation: evaluate OCR/AP automation tools, invoice workflows, e-invoicing, and ERP integrations to reduce manual touchpoints and improve SLAs
  • Partner cross-functionally with Procurement, Treasury, Cash Management, Tax, and Accounting to resolve disputes, optimize payment terms, and forecast cash outflows
  • Maintain vendor master data integrity and lead vendor statement reconciliations and dispute resolution processes
  • Monitor AP KPIs (days payable outstanding, invoice cycle time, payment exception rate) and create regular management reporting and dashboards
  • Support external and internal audits, respond to auditor requests, and implement remediation for control gaps

Required Qualifications

  • 5+ years of progressive AP experience with 2+ years in a supervisory or lead role managing AP processing teams
  • Strong working knowledge of ERP systems (NetSuite, SAP, Oracle Cloud, or similar) and AP automation platforms (e.g., Tipalti, AvidXchange, Basware)
  • Hands-on experience with payment rails (ACH, SEPA, domestic/FX wire, virtual cards) and vendor payment operations
  • Proven track record executing month-end close, AP accruals, account reconciliations, and audit support
  • Deep familiarity with SOX control frameworks, segregation of duties, and audit-ready process documentation
  • Exceptional Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, Power Query) and experience building AP reports and dashboards

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with Treasury/ERP integrations, AP OCR and RPA implementations, or experience evaluating vendors for AP workflow automation
  • Professional accounting credential (CPA, CMA) or accounting/finance degree
  • Experience in high-volume, multi-entity/multi-currency environments and intercompany payment processes
  • Familiarity with procurement-to-pay (P2P) processes and travel & expense (T&E) systems

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • ERP: NetSuite, SAP, Oracle Cloud, Microsoft Dynamics
  • AP automation/OCR: Tipalti, AvidXchange, Basware, ReadSoft, UiPath RPA
  • Payments: ACH, SEPA, SWIFT, virtual card platforms, positive pay
  • Reporting & BI: Excel (advanced), Power BI, Tableau, SQL basics
  • Controls & Compliance: SOX, internal control matrices, audit-ready documentation

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Proven leader with a track record of coaching teams, improving processes, and driving measurable KPI improvements
  • Clear, concise communicator comfortable with cross-functional stakeholders and vendor negotiations
  • Analytical mindset: able to analyze exception root causes and implement long-term fixes
  • Detail-oriented and process-driven while balancing pragmatic decision-making in a fast-paced finance organization
  • Commitment to inclusive management: develops diverse teams and fosters psychological safety

Benefits and Perks

Salary Range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Comprehensive benefits package may include:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Generous paid time off, paid parental leave, and paid holidays
  • Professional development stipend and certification support (CPA/CMA exam assistance)
  • Flexible spending account, commuter benefits, and wellness programs
  • Hybrid work policy, commuter subsidy, and employee assistance program

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. We encourage applicants from underrepresented groups and applicants with non-linear career paths to apply.

Location

This role is hybrid: a successful candidate will be expected to work from the office at least 3 days per week in [$COMPANY_LOCATION]; occasional travel to other sites or vendor locations may be required.

How to Apply

We encourage applicants to apply even if you don’t meet every listed requirement. Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting relevant AP leadership and systems experience; candidates with transferable skills and demonstrated ability to learn quickly are welcomed.

6. Accounts Payable Manager Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

[$COMPANY_NAME] is hiring an experienced Accounts Payable Manager to lead AP operations, drive process automation, and ensure accurate, timely payment cycles across multiple entities. This role combines hands-on accounting control with team leadership and cross-functional partnership: you will own end-to-end invoice-to-pay workflows, vendor relationships, month-end AP close activities, and compliance with GAAP and internal control frameworks such as SOX. The successful candidate will design scalable AP processes, implement best-practice controls, and partner with Treasury, Procurement, Tax, and ERP teams to optimize working capital and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

  • Manage day-to-day AP operations for high-volume invoice processing, bill payments, credits, and vendor account reconciliations across domestic and international entities
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of AP specialists; define KPIs (e.g., Days Payable Outstanding, invoice cycle time, percent e-invoiced) and run regular performance reviews
  • Architect and implement AP automation initiatives (e-invoicing, OCR, workflow, supplier portals) in partnership with ERP and IT teams to reduce manual touchpoints and increase straight-through processing
  • Own month-end close tasks related to AP: cut-off testing, accruals, account reconciliations, and variance explanations; ensure timely posting and accurate balance sheet presentation
  • Design, document, and enforce internal controls and SOX-compliant processes for invoice approval, segregation of duties, payment authorization, and exception handling
  • Serve as primary liaison to vendors and Treasury for payment scheduling, electronic payments (ACH, wire, virtual card), and resolving disputed invoices
  • Partner with Procurement to improve PO-AP matching rates, reduce exceptions, and implement vendor consolidation strategies
  • Lead continuous improvement projects using data-driven approaches: analyze AP aging, identify cost recovery opportunities, and implement supplier payment term strategies
  • Coordinate audit requests, provide supporting documentation, and remediate control findings from external and internal audits

Required Qualifications

  • 5+ years of accounts payable or accounting operations experience with at least 2 years leading a team or program
  • Demonstrated expertise in AP lifecycle management: invoice processing, three-way PO matching, vendor onboarding, payment execution, and reconciliations
  • Strong knowledge of GAAP, accounts payable accounting, and internal controls; experience with SOX compliance and audit support
  • Experience with enterprise ERPs such as SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, Workday Financials, or Coupa; proven ability to partner with IT on ERP configurations and integrations
  • Proficiency with AP automation tools (e.g., Tipalti, AvidXchange, Basware, Esker), OCR solutions, and payment platforms (ACH, RTP, virtual card)
  • Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, Power Query) and experience building operational dashboards and KPI reports
  • Excellent communication skills with experience presenting metrics and improvement plans to finance leadership and cross-functional stakeholders
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field or equivalent experience; CPA or CMA preferred but not required

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience managing multi-entity or multi-currency AP operations and cross-border payments
  • Background in process transformation, Lean or Six Sigma, or formal project management (PMP) experience
  • Hands-on experience with tax reporting for payments and familiarity with 1099/CRA filing requirements
  • Experience implementing supplier enablement programs and vendor self-service portals

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • ERP systems: SAP, Oracle EBS/Cloud, NetSuite, Workday Financials
  • AP automation and procure-to-pay tools: Coupa, Basware, Tipalti, AvidXchange, Esker
  • Payment rails and treasury interfaces: ACH, wire, virtual card platforms, bank file formats, SWIFT
  • Data & reporting: Excel (advanced), Power BI or Tableau, SQL for ad-hoc queries
  • Document capture & OCR: Kofax, Abbyy FlexiCapture, Rossum or similar
  • Compliance & controls tooling: audit management systems, GRC platforms

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Proven leader who sets clear priorities, runs effective 1:1s, and mentors team members to improve technical and process skills
  • Analytical mindset with demonstrated ability to use data to surface root causes and recommend measurable solutions
  • Strong stakeholder management: collaborates with Procurement, Treasury, Tax, and ERP/IT to drive cross-functional outcomes
  • High integrity and attention to detail; comfortable enforcing controls while maintaining positive vendor relationships
  • Change agent who can lead automation adoption and influence without direct authority
  • Inclusive manager who hires for diversity, fosters psychological safety, and supports career development across the team

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with company match or equivalent retirement plan
  • Generous paid time off, paid parental leave, and flexible work arrangements
  • Professional development stipend, certification reimbursement (e.g., CPA, CMA, PMP), and access to technical and leadership training
  • Commuter benefits, wellness programs, and employee assistance resources
  • Equity or long-term incentive plan available for eligible roles

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities during the application and interview process.

Location

This is a hybrid role based in [$COMPANY_LOCATION]. A successful candidate will be expected to work from the office at least 3 days per week to enable cross-functional collaboration with Finance, Procurement, and IT teams. Remote work flexibility is available in accordance with company policy.

How to Apply

We encourage applicants to apply even if you do not meet every listed qualification. If you are passionate about transforming AP operations and developing high-performing teams, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting relevant AP transformation or ERP implementation experience. Candidates who meet some but not all requirements are encouraged to apply; we prioritize demonstrated impact, learning agility, and cultural fit.

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