Accounts Payable Specialist

Accounts Payable SpecialistThe Accounts Payable (AP) Specialist performs specialized, technical accounting and clerical work in vendor maintenance, processing, and reconciliation of County payments. Operating within a high-volume environment, this position assists the Certified Financial Officer in the bi-monthly payment cycle for vendor invoices, employee reimbursements, and contract disbursements across multiple county departments and diverse funding sources.This position acts verifies every transaction for mathematical accuracy, proper departmental authorization, budget availability, and strict compliance with County Financial policies and IRS regulations. Additionally, this role prepares all payment batches for required statutory County Auditor review.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Processes high-volume vendor invoices, contract payments, and employee reimbursements accurately and efficiently.Monitors expenses across multiple county departments and funding sources to ensure alignment with approved budgets.Verifies payment requests for mathematical accuracy, proper departmental authorization, and correct general ledger account coding.Obtains and reviews bids or quotes in accordance with county procurement regulations.Reconciles vendor statements and accounts payable ledgers while researching and resolving any payment discrepancies.Collects, verifies, and archives IRS Form W-9s and independent contractor documentation prior to disbursement.Maintains the centralized county vendor master file on a continually updates established basis.Returns incorrect invoices to departments with clear guidance for necessary corrections.Assembles and reconciles transaction documentation and payment batches for statutory Auditor review.Education:High school diploma, or GED requiredExperience:Two (2) or more years of progressively responsible experience in governmental finance, accounting, or public administration.Demonstrated experience with public sector budgeting, financial reporting, and internal control systems.Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and financial management software.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Strong knowledge of public finance principles, government fund accounting, and internal auditing standards.Ability to analyze complex financial data and present findings in a clear, concise manner.Skilled in managing multiple projects and competing deadlines in a high-responsibility environment.Work Environment and Conditions:Office environment with frequent interaction with County departments, staff, elected officials, and external auditors.Minimal physical demands typical of administrative office work.