About the position
We are seeking an experienced and adaptable Accounts Payable Specialist to join our mission-driven finance team. This role goes beyond traditional AP functions, requiring strong knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting, and cross-functional collaboration.
Responsibilities
• Manage and process AP transactions with accuracy and timeliness.
• Perform and teach proper reconciliation techniques across accounts.
• Review and analyze smaller accounts for accuracy and completeness.
• Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Provide insights and training on fund balance accounting and accrual methods.
• Ensure timely and accurate payment of vendor invoices through various methods (e.g., checks, ACH, credit cards).
• Verify, code, and process invoices, ensuring compliance with policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate and organized records of accounts payable transactions.
• Reconcile vendor statements, resolve discrepancies, and prepare bank reconciliations.
• Prepare and analyze accounts payable reports, including aging reports and cash flow projections.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy in the accounts payable function.
• Ensure compliance with tax regulations and other financial reporting requirements.
• Serve as the point of contact for vendors, suppliers, and internal stakeholders on payment-related matters.
• Assist in the development and monitoring of the accounts payable budget.
• Assist in preparing monthly and annual financial reports, including those related to accounts payable.
• Other duties as assigned
Requirements
• Process AP transactions accurately; reconcile accounts; review smaller accounts for completeness
• Ensure compliance; provide insights and training on accrual methods
• Manage vendor payments via checks, ACH, and credit cards
• Verify, code, and process invoices per policy
• Maintain organized AP records
• Resolve discrepancies; prepare bank reconciliations
• Prepare AP reports, aging schedules, and cash flow projections
• Identify and implement efficiency enhancements
• Adhere to tax and reporting requirements
• Act as liaison for vendors and internal stakeholders
• Assist with AP budget development and monitoring
• Contribute to monthly and annual reports
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA preferred)
• 5–7 years of GAAP and accrual accounting experience, preferably in non-profit
• Strong knowledge of fund accounting, grant compliance, and fixed asset management
• Experience with CIP and inter-entity accounting
• Proficiency in accounting software (Blackbaud, QuickBooks, NetSuite, SAP)
• Advanced Excel skills (formulas, pivot tables, data analysis)
• Familiarity with data analytics tools (Power BI or similar)
• Ability to mentor others in accounting and analytics
• Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills
• The candidate must be able to speak, read, and write in English to effectively communicate with vendors, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
Nice-to-haves
• Experience with system transitions is a plus
Benefits
• Health insurance
• Dental & Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Generous PTO (Paid time off)- Accrue up to 21 days in Year 1, some PTO carryover allowable.
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Employment may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
• Certain employees may qualify for City of Chicago commuter transit benefits
Apply Now
Apply Now