What Does an Accounts Payable Clerk Do?
An accounts payable clerk is responsible for processing and recording a company’s financial obligations to suppliers and service providers. This role focuses on ensuring accurate invoice entry, timely payments, and strong vendor relationships. Working closely with the finance and procurement departments, AP clerks play a vital role in maintaining a company’s cash flow and financial accuracy.
They review invoices for accuracy, verify approval for expenditures, and ensure compliance with internal controls and external regulations. AP clerks often manage hundreds of transactions each month, requiring sharp attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to meet deadlines without sacrificing accuracy.
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Accounts Payable Clerk Core Responsibilities
- Review, code, and enter vendor invoices into the accounting system
- Match invoices to purchase orders and delivery receipts
- Prepare and process check runs, ACH payments, and wire transfers
- Reconcile vendor statements and resolve billing discrepancies
- Maintain vendor records and payment terms in the ERP system
- Assist in month-end close activities related to payables
- Respond to vendor inquiries and maintain positive relationships
- Ensure compliance with company policies and accounting regulations
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle, NetSuite)
- Basic knowledge of accounting principles and accounts payable processes
- Skilled in invoice coding, PO matching, and reconciliation
- Familiarity with Microsoft Excel and other spreadsheet tools
Soft skills
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to manage high volumes of transactions efficiently
- Clear communication skills for working with vendors and internal departments
- Time management and organizational skills
- Problem-solving mindset for resolving invoice issues
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Associate degree in Accounting or Finance preferred
Certifications
- None required; certification in bookkeeping or accounting (e.g., AIPB or NACPB) is a plus
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in a high-volume AP environment
- Experience with three-way matching and vendor contract review
- Exposure to ERP systems or AP automation tools
- Familiarity with 1099 vendor setup and year-end reporting
National Average Salary
Accounts payable clerk salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Position is:
$123,456
Sample Job Description Templates for Accounts Payable Clerks
Junior Accounts Payable Clerk
Position Overview
We are hiring a Junior Accounts Payable Clerk to support day-to-day vendor invoicing and payment processing functions. This entry-level position is ideal for candidates beginning their accounting careers and offers opportunities for growth through hands-on experience and mentorship from senior team members.
Junior Accounts Payable Clerk Responsibilities
- Assist in entering and coding vendor invoices
- Perform basic data entry and document filing
- Support the team in verifying invoice details and approvals
- Communicate with vendors to confirm payment status
- Help reconcile simple discrepancies in invoices or statements
- Maintain organized digital and paper records
Junior Accounts Payable Clerk Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic proficiency with Microsoft Excel and accounting software
- General understanding of invoices and vendor payment processes
Soft skills
- Willingness to learn and take direction
- Strong attention to detail
- Good organizational skills
Educational requirements
- High school diploma required; coursework in accounting a plus
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship or part-time experience in an accounting or clerical role
Senior Accounts Payable Clerk
Position Overview
We are seeking a Senior Accounts Payable Clerk to handle advanced invoice processing, lead problem resolution, and support the AP team with training and guidance. This role requires significant experience with high-volume transactions and strong analytical skills to identify and resolve payment discrepancies.
Senior Accounts Payable Clerk Responsibilities
- Process complex or high-volume invoices with accuracy and timeliness
- Reconcile discrepancies between purchase orders, receipts, and invoices
- Serve as a point of contact for escalated vendor issues
- Assist in AP reporting and month-end reconciliation
- Mentor junior AP staff and review their work for accuracy
- Recommend improvements to processes and internal controls
Senior Accounts Payable Clerk Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced experience with ERP or AP automation systems
- Strong understanding of accounting principles and AP workflows
- Excel skills for data analysis and reconciliation
Soft skills
- Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities
- Leadership and mentorship capabilities
- Effective communication with internal departments and vendors
Educational requirements
- Associate degree or higher in Accounting, Finance, or related field
Certifications
- None required; bookkeeping certification a plus
Preferred Qualifications
- 4+ years of experience in accounts payable or accounting
Lead Accounts Payable Clerk
Position Overview
We are hiring a Lead Accounts Payable Clerk to oversee day-to-day AP operations and serve as the primary resource for the AP team. This role is responsible for managing workflows, ensuring the timely processing of payments, and coordinating with vendors and internal stakeholders. The Lead AP Clerk will also assist in system improvements and training initiatives.
Lead Accounts Payable Clerk Responsibilities
- Lead invoice processing and payment scheduling for all vendor accounts
- Monitor team workload and ensure accurate, on-time processing
- Communicate with vendors regarding payment issues and account status
- Collaborate with procurement, accounting, and finance teams
- Provide support and training to junior AP staff
- Identify areas for process improvement and assist with implementations
- Support AP Manager or Supervisor with reporting and special projects
Lead Accounts Payable Clerk Requirements
Hard skills
- Deep experience with AP software and ERP systems
- Strong understanding of AP lifecycle and vendor management
- Advanced spreadsheet and reconciliation skills
Soft skills
- Team leadership and delegation
- Strategic problem-solving
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Educational requirements
- Associate degree or higher in Accounting or Finance
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of AP experience, including at least 1 year in a lead or supervisory role