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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

[$COMPANY_NAME] is hiring an Accounts Payable Supervisor to lead day-to-day AP operations, tighten internal controls, and scale AP processes across multiple vendors and legal entities. In this supervisory role you will manage a team of AP specialists, own month-end AP close activities, and drive automation initiatives using ERPs and third-party AP tools. This position requires a strong operational mindset, hands-on technical competence with financial systems, and proven leadership in a high-volume payables environment located in [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

Responsibilities

  • Supervise and develop a team of AP Analysts and Clerks: staffing, training, performance reviews, coaching, and career development.
  • Manage end-to-end accounts payable lifecycle for high-volume payables: invoice capture (PO and non-PO), three-way matching, approvals, payment runs (ACH, Wire, Check), and remittance.
  • Own month-end AP close activities: accruals, reconciliations, stale-dated payments, and balance sheet substantiation.
  • Implement and enforce SOX-compliant internal controls and maintain audit-ready documentation and process maps.
  • Lead AP automation and ERP integration projects: vendor portal rollouts, OCR/IVA invoice processing, automated workflows, and straight-through processing (STP) improvements.
  • Partner with Procurement, Treasury, Tax, and Financial Reporting to align on cash forecasting, payment terms, vendor onboarding, 1099/CRA compliance, and dispute resolution.
  • Monitor KPIs and SLAs: invoice cycle time, payment accuracy, exception rates, early payment discounts captured, and days payable outstanding (DPO). Produce weekly and monthly operational dashboards.
  • Resolve escalated vendor issues, complex payment exceptions, foreign currency payables, and intercompany settlements.
  • Drive continuous process improvement using Lean principles and partner with IT/Finance to define requirements, user acceptance testing (UAT), and post-deployment stabilization.

Required Qualifications

  • 5+ years of progressive accounts payable experience with 2+ years in a supervisory or lead role managing AP teams in a corporate environment.
  • Hands-on experience with enterprise ERPs such as Oracle (EBS/Cloud), SAP, NetSuite, Workday Financials or equivalent; demonstrated ability to configure AP workflows and approval matrices.
  • Proven track record implementing AP automation (OCR/IVA, vendor portals, RPA) and integrating third-party tools with ERPs.
  • Strong knowledge of payment rails and settlement processes: ACH, SCT/SEPA, wires, cross-border payments, and check runs.
  • Deep understanding of internal controls, SOX requirements, audit processes, and compliance for vendor tax reporting (1099/CRA/TIN validation).
  • Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, Power Query), ability to write SQL queries for ad-hoc reporting preferred.
  • Experience managing high-volume payables (thousands of invoices/month) and multi-entity/multi-currency environments.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Professional certification such as CPA, CMA, CTP, or accounting/bookkeeping certification is a plus.
  • Experience with AP/finance modules in cloud migrations or ERP implementations.
  • Familiarity with procure-to-pay (P2P) lifecycle, supplier master data governance, and e-invoicing standards (PEPPOL).
  • Experience using Business Intelligence tools (Tableau, Power BI) to build operational dashboards.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • ERP platforms: Oracle, SAP, NetSuite, Workday Financials, Microsoft Dynamics.
  • AP automation: OCR/IVA tools (ABBYY, Kofax, Rossum), vendor portals, Concur invoicing connectors.
  • Payment systems: ACH processors, SWIFT, bank APIs, virtual card platforms, treasury management interfaces.
  • Data: SQL for reporting, Excel advanced functions, Power Query/Power Pivot.
  • Controls & compliance: SOX, internal control frameworks, audit management tools.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Operational leader with a bias for measurable outcomes and continuous improvement.
  • Track record of leading change: writing requirements, driving stakeholder alignment, and delivering on cross-functional projects.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills; able to present KPIs to finance leadership and articulate tradeoffs to non-technical partners.
  • Coaching mindset: proven ability to mentor junior staff, conduct effective 1:1s, and build high-performing teams.
  • Detail-oriented with high integrity and commitment to accuracy and timely execution.

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]. [$COMPANY_NAME] offers a competitive total rewards package including medical/dental/vision insurance, retirement savings plan with employer match, paid time off, paid parental leave, professional development stipend, and flexible time policies. Additional benefits may include commuter support, wellness programs, and employee assistance programs.

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 other protected characteristics. Applicants with non-traditional career paths and transferable skills are encouraged to apply.

Location

This role is based in [$COMPANY_LOCATION] and requires regular on-site presence to supervise AP operations and collaborate with finance, treasury, and procurement teams. Occasional remote work may be accommodated per company policy.

How to Apply

We encourage applicants to apply even if they do not meet every listed qualification. Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter describing relevant AP leadership experience and process improvement outcomes. Candidates with partial qualification matches but strong operational aptitude and leadership potential will be seriously considered.

6. Accounts Payable Manager Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

[$COMPANY_NAME] is seeking an experienced Accounts Payable Manager to lead and optimize our accounts payable function. This role is responsible for designing, implementing, and operating scalable AP processes and controls that support high transaction volumes, multi-currency payments, and tight month-end close cycles. You will manage day-to-day AP operations, partner with treasury and procurement, and drive automation initiatives using AP workflow tools, ERP integrations, and vendor payment platforms.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage the full AP lifecycle: vendor setup and onboarding, invoice receipt/triage, three-way matching, provisional accruals, dispute resolution, and payment execution (ACH, wire, virtual card)
  • Own month-end AP close activities and reconciliations; ensure timely and accurate posting to the general ledger and cutoffs aligned to accounting policies
  • Design and maintain SOX-compliant internal controls, author and review control matrices, and partner with internal/external auditors to evidence control effectiveness
  • Implement and operate AP automation platforms (OCR/IDP, e-invoicing, workflow engines) and drive integration projects between AP and ERPs such as Oracle, SAP, NetSuite, or Dynamics
  • Define and track key operational metrics (Days Payable Outstanding, invoice cycle time, first-pass match rate, payment exceptions) and present actionable insights to finance leadership
  • Manage vendor relationships and lead vendor onboarding, KYC/ACH setup, and dispute resolution escalation
  • Coach, develop, and scale a high-performing AP team; document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and maintain training materials
  • Partner with treasury to optimize payment terms, working capital, and fraud prevention strategies (positive pay, virtual card controls)
  • Lead continuous improvement and cost reduction initiatives — leverage RPA, API-based payment rails, and vendor portal strategies to reduce manual work and exceptions

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 supervisory or manager capacity
  • Demonstrated experience managing AP processes in an ERP environment (NetSuite, Oracle E-Business Suite, SAP S/4HANA, Microsoft Dynamics)
  • Strong knowledge of US GAAP and experience supporting external audits and SOX compliance
  • Hands-on experience with AP automation tools, OCR/IDP platforms, or invoice capture and workflow systems
  • Proven ability to implement controls, document policies, and reduce invoice processing cycle time
  • Advanced Excel skills; ability to write and interpret SQL queries for reconciliations and data validation

Preferred:

  • Experience with multi-entity and multi-currency AP operations, intercompany invoicing, and tax withholding processes
  • Familiarity with payment providers and rails (ACH, SEPA, SWIFT, card networks, virtual card providers)
  • Experience integrating AP systems via APIs, middleware (MuleSoft, Dell Boomi), or iPaaS solutions
  • Certifications such as CPA, CMA, or Certified Accounts Payable Professional (CAPP)
  • Experience in a high-growth or matrixed enterprise environment

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • ERP systems: NetSuite, Oracle, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics
  • AP automation / OCR / IDP: Tipalti, Stampli, AvidXchange, AppZen, Kofax
  • Payments and treasury tools: Bank ACH platforms, SWIFT, Stripe/Adyen payouts, virtual card providers
  • Data analysis: Advanced Excel, Power Query, Power BI or Tableau, SQL
  • Integration and scripting: REST APIs, XML/JSON, RPA tools (UiPath, Automation Anywhere) and ETL/iPaaS concepts
  • Control and compliance frameworks: SOX, internal control documentation, audit evidence preparation

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Proven leadership in building and scaling operations teams; track record of mentoring and developing direct reports
  • Strong communicator: able to translate technical and accounting concepts for cross-functional partners (procurement, treasury, IT, tax)
  • Data-driven decision-maker with the ability to design KPIs, run root-cause analysis, and present recommendations to senior stakeholders
  • Process-oriented with a bias for standardization, simplification, and automation
  • High integrity and attention to detail; demonstrates good judgement when escalating supplier disputes or potential fraud
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and driving change across systems and teams

Benefits and Perks

Salary: [$SALARY_RANGE]

  • Competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • 401(k) with company match or local equivalent retirement plan
  • Paid time off, parental leave, and flexible holiday policy
  • Professional development stipend and support for certifications (CPA/CAPP)
  • Commuter benefit or parking subsidy for office days
  • Hybrid work allowance for home-office setup and technology reimbursement

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive 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, veteran status, age, or other legally protected characteristics. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Location

This role is based in [$COMPANY_LOCATION] and follows a hybrid working model. A successful candidate will be expected to work from the office at least three days per week to collaborate with finance, procurement, and treasury teams; occasional travel to other company sites may be required.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining relevant AP leadership experience and systems implementations. Applicants who meet the core qualifications are encouraged to apply; we review all qualified candidates and will contact those selected for interviews.

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