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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 a high-volume AP team and optimize end-to-end payables operations. This role combines hands-on transactional oversight, technical process improvement, and people leadership to ensure timely, compliant payments and high-quality vendor relationships. You will drive automation, controls, and operational KPIs across ERP-based payables workflows, vendor master governance, and month-end close activities while mentoring staff and partnering cross-functionally with Procurement, Treasury, and Internal Audit.

Responsibilities

  • Supervise and develop a team of AP specialists: prioritize workload, conduct 1:1s, performance reviews, and deliver targeted coaching to elevate accuracy and throughput.
  • Manage end-to-end accounts payable lifecycle for high-volume invoice processing (PO and non-PO), approvals, three-way matching, dispute resolution, and vendor communications.
  • Own AP technical operations: configure and optimize AP modules in ERP systems (e.g., SAP FI-AP, Oracle E-Business Suite, NetSuite) and integrate AP automation tools (OCR, RPA, A/P workflow engines, AP portals).
  • Implement and maintain internal controls and SOX-compliant activities for invoice routing, segregation of duties, vendor master changes, payment approvals, and authorization matrices.
  • Design and track operational KPIs: invoice cycle time, exceptions rate, early payment discounts captured, payment accuracy, days payable outstanding (DPO), and vendor satisfaction metrics; present trends and remediation plans to finance leadership.
  • Lead process improvement initiatives: map current-state processes, define target-state automation opportunities (OCR, Intelligent Document Processing), and manage vendor onboarding to electronic invoicing and ACH/virtual card programs.
  • Coordinate month-end close tasks related to AP accruals, cutoffs, reconciliations, and variance analysis; prepare journal entries and supporting schedules.
  • Partner with Treasury to manage payment runs (ACH, wire transfers, check processing, virtual card), resolve items in AP aging, and support cash forecasting.
  • Serve as escalation point for complex vendor disputes, contract billing inquiries, tax withholding/1099 issues, and cross-border payment exceptions.
  • Collaborate with Internal Audit and external auditors on control testing, sampling, and remediation of findings.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration or equivalent; or equivalent professional experience (minimum 5+ years in accounts payable or shared services, with 2+ years supervisory experience).
  • Proven experience supervising AP teams in a high-volume environment, including hiring, coaching, and performance management.
  • Hands-on knowledge of ERP AP modules (NetSuite, SAP FI-AP, Oracle) and AP automation tools (OCR, RPA, Ariba, Coupa, Tipalti, AvidXchange) with demonstrated implementation or optimization experience.
  • Strong understanding of cash management and payment methods (ACH, wire, virtual card), vendor master governance, 1099 reporting, and sales/use/tax implications for payables.
  • Demonstrated experience implementing or maintaining SOX controls and supporting external/internal audits.
  • Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, Power Query) and working knowledge of SQL or data extraction tools for reconciliation and reporting.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to present process changes and KPI trends to stakeholders.

Preferred:

  • Certifications such as Certified Accounts Payable Professional (CAPP), Certified Treasury Professional (CTP), or CPA (in good standing) are a plus.
  • Experience with continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma) and applied process automation projects that reduced invoice processing cycle time or cost-per-invoice.
  • Familiarity with international payables, FX implications, and multi-currency AP processing.
  • Experience with vendor portals, e-invoicing standards (PEPPOL), and supplier enablement programs.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • ERP systems: NetSuite, SAP FI/CO, Oracle EBS, Microsoft Dynamics.
  • AP automation: OCR/IDP (e.g., ABBYY, Kofax), RPA (UiPath, Automation Anywhere), AP platforms (Tipalti, AvidXchange, Coupa, Ariba).
  • Payments infrastructure: ACH, wire, virtual card platforms, RTP, SWIFT basics.
  • Reporting & data tools: Advanced Excel, SQL, Power BI, Tableau, Alteryx.
  • Controls & compliance: SOX control frameworks, audit sampling tools, vendor master change governance.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Leadership mindset with a track record of scaling teams and improving operational maturity across finance functions.
  • Analytical rigor: ability to decompose root causes for recurring exceptions and design durable, data-driven solutions.
  • Process-oriented with attention to detail and a bias for operational excellence and continuous improvement.
  • Effective stakeholder management: collaborate with Procurement, Treasury, Tax, and Accounting to drive cross-functional outcomes.
  • Change agent: comfortable leading process change, driving adoption of new tools, and communicating impacts to distributed teams.
  • Inclusive manager who fosters psychological safety, diverse perspectives, and career development for direct reports.

Benefits and Perks

Salary: [$SALARY_RANGE]

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance; flexible benefits options.
  • 401(k) with company match and retirement planning resources.
  • Generous paid time off, holiday calendar, and paid parental leave.
  • Professional development stipend, certification reimbursement, and mentoring programs.
  • Hybrid work support stipend, commuter benefits, and wellness offerings including EAP and mental health resources.
  • Equity or bonus opportunities where applicable; performance-based incentives tied to operational KPIs.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. We encourage applicants from historically underrepresented groups to apply; reasonable accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities during the application and interview process.

Location

This is a hybrid position based in [$COMPANY_LOCATION]. A successful candidate will be expected to work from the office at least 3 days per week to support team collaboration, vendor onboarding, and month-end close activities.

How to Apply

We encourage applicants to apply even if you do not meet every qualification listed. Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining relevant AP leadership experience, ERP systems you have managed, and one process improvement you led that delivered measurable results.

6. Accounts Payable Manager Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

[$COMPANY_NAME] is hiring an Accounts Payable Manager to lead and scale AP operations, strengthen internal controls, and drive automation across payables processes. Reporting to the Head of Finance/controller, you will design and optimize end-to-end AP workflows—including invoice capture, matching, approval routing, payment execution, and vendor reconciliation—leveraging ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, Workday) and AP automation tools (e.g., Tipalti, Coupa, Stampli, AvidXchange). You will be accountable for month-end close for payables, SOX-compliant controls, operational KPIs, and delivering timely cash forecasting inputs to treasury.

Responsibilities

  • Own day-to-day AP operations: invoice processing, three-way matching, vendor statement reconciliation, dispute resolution, and payment execution (ACH, wire, virtual card, check)
  • Lead month-end close activities related to payables: accrue liabilities, reconcile AP subledger to GL, produce variance explanations and close checklists
  • Design, document, and enforce internal controls and SOX procedures for invoice approval, segregation of duties, and payment authorization; maintain control matrices and remediation plans
  • Implement and scale AP automation initiatives: OCR/ICR for invoice capture, straight-through-processing (STP), workflow routing, vendor onboarding portals, and exception handling
  • Partner with Treasury to optimize payment rails, schedule cash outflows, manage early payment / dynamic discount programs, and reduce DPO volatility
  • Manage vendor relationships and dispute resolution escalations; negotiate payment terms and onboarding SLAs with procurement and vendors
  • Define and track AP metrics: invoice cycle time, cost per invoice, % automated invoices, payment accuracy, unapplied payments, aging, and vendor satisfaction
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing AP team: hire, coach, conduct performance reviews, and create career progression plans
  • Partner with Finance, Procurement, IT and Shared Services to implement ERP integrations, RPA, API-based bank connectivity, and secure payment solutions
  • Drive continuous process improvement using Lean/Six Sigma principles; lead cross-functional projects to reduce exceptions and manual touchpoints

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field, or equivalent experience
  • 5+ years of progressive AP experience with 2+ years in a leadership or supervisory role managing an AP team
  • Hands-on experience with ERP systems (NetSuite, Oracle, SAP, Workday) and AP automation platforms; ability to configure workflows and troubleshoot integrations
  • Deep knowledge of accounts payable accounting, accruals, intercompany payables, vendor master data management, and reconciliations
  • Proven experience implementing internal controls and SOX compliance for payables
  • Strong Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, Power Query) and experience with SQL or BI tools (Looker, Power BI, Tableau) preferred for reporting and analysis
  • Excellent communication skills with experience partnering cross-functionally (Treasury, Procurement, IT, Legal)

Preferred:

  • Experience with AP-specific automation tools (Tipalti, Coupa, Stampli, AvidXchange) and OCR engines (ABBYY, Kofax)
  • Certifications such as CPA, CMA, or Lean Six Sigma are a plus
  • Experience managing remote or distributed finance teams and global payables processes (multi-currency, VAT/GST)
  • Familiarity with payment security standards and vendor KYC / tax-compliance requirements

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • ERP platforms: NetSuite, Oracle E-Business Suite, SAP S/4HANA, Workday Financials
  • AP automation: Tipalti, Coupa, Stampli, AvidXchange, Basware
  • OCR/Document capture: ABBYY, Kofax, UiPath Document Understanding
  • Payment rails and banking integrations: ACH, Fedwire, SEPA, SWIFT, virtual card providers, bank APIs
  • RPA and integration tools: UiPath, Automation Anywhere, MuleSoft, Workato
  • Reporting & analytics: Excel (advanced), SQL, Power BI, Looker, Tableau
  • Controls & compliance: SOX control testing, control matrices, audit support

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Demonstrated leadership: track record of building teams, writing SOPs, leading change, and mentoring finance professionals
  • Analytical mindset: ability to synthesize large datasets to identify root causes and recommend corrective actions
  • Process-oriented: experience documenting processes, owner of end-to-end workflows, and implementing continuous improvement
  • Influence without authority: comfortable driving initiatives across procurement, IT, treasury and business stakeholders
  • High integrity and attention to detail: committed to accurate financial reporting and strong control environment
  • Adaptable communicator: able to translate technical integrations and process changes into clear action plans for non-technical partners

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • Competitive base salary plus performance-based bonus
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with employer match or equivalent retirement plan
  • Generous paid time off, paid parental leave, and holiday schedule
  • Professional development stipend and reimbursement for certifications (CPA, CMA, Lean Six Sigma)
  • Flexible work arrangements and wellness stipends
  • Opportunities for cross-functional career growth into FP&A, Treasury, or Finance Operations leadership 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, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a hybrid position based in [$COMPANY_LOCATION]. A successful candidate will be expected to work from the office at least three days per week to support cross-functional collaboration, vendor meetings, and month-end close activities. Remote work flexibility is available on a regular schedule.

Application Instructions

We encourage applicants: if you don't meet every qualification but have strong AP operations experience and a growth mindset, please apply. Submit your resume and a brief cover letter describing a recent process improvement or automation project you led.

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