Account Payable Jobs (Careers in Finance & Business)

Finding the Best Accounts Payable Jobs

Accounts payable jobs offer plenty of opportunities for growth and are essential roles in maintaining the financial health of companies. So here we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about these promising careers, from job descriptions and responsibilities to potential career progressions. 

Key Takeaways

• Accounts payable jobs in finance and business offer a range of opportunities, from entry - level clerk roles to specialized positions such as analysts and managers.
• Accounts payable professionals play a crucial role in maintaining the financial health of organizations by overseeing transactions, ensuring accurate financial records, and managing invoice processing.
• These professionals contribute to regulatory compliance by staying up-to-date with financial regulations and laws, while also managing cash flow effectively.
• Account payable jobs provide potential for career progression, allowing individuals to move from entry-level roles to specialist or managerial positions within the field.

Understanding Accounts Payable Jobs

Accounts Payable Jobs encompass a range of roles, including Accounts Payable Specialist, Clerk, Manager, Analyst, and Coordinator.

Accounts Payable Specialist

In the realm of accounts payable jobs, an Accounts Payable Specialist plays a vital part. They manage all aspects of outgoing payments, spearheading invoice processing and handling vendor relations with notable competency.

Their role includes matching purchase orders to invoices while meticulously validating details to eliminate any discrepancies. As gatekeepers for financial accuracy, they conduct account reconciliations and prepare monthly reports. These critical tasks contribute to a company's fiscal health.

With job listings available on GoFreelance, an online platform expert in home-based and flexible work opportunities, aspiring Accounts Payable Specialists can find high-quality roles fit perfectly for their skill set and career goals.

This job function is becoming increasingly popular among employers offering remote work options, amplifying the attractiveness of this position within finance & business sectors even further.

Accounts Payable Clerk

In the hierarchy of accounts payable jobs, an Accounts Payable Clerk holds a crucial role. You will handle entry-level tasks that involve processing transactions and managing vendor invoices.

With its presence in various fields like banking, bookkeeping, and administrative duties among others, it's indeed a versatile role with plenty of opportunities.

From ensuring accurate financial records to processing payments efficiently, the role requires keen attention to detail and solid organizational skills. Duties often include the management of invoice processing, account reconciliation, and payment processing, These are all intrinsic parts of maintaining a company's financial health.

As these tasks can be executed from any location with an internet connection, there is potential for remote work options in this field. There are many work organizations offering 100% remote work or hybrid remote work opportunities.

Accounts Payable Manager

The Accounts Payable Manager is an indispensable role in the finance and business sector. This professional oversees the entire accounts payable department, ensuring that all vendor invoices are processed accurately and payments are made on time to maintain a healthy cash flow.

Beyond this, they often take on further responsibilities including managing relationships with vendors, performing account reconciliations, and preparing financial reports. You could potentially enjoy work from home or flexible schedule options.

The required education varies considerably. Some companies might seek candidates with higher level degrees while others may place more emphasis on relevant experience in accounting & finance operations.

Note that progressing to this level from roles such as Accounts Payable Clerk or Specialist offers significant career advancement opportunities within companies like A P Clerk or Advantex Professional Services.

Accounts Payable Analyst

An Accounts Payable Analyst plays a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of financial transactions within an organization. 

You will be responsible for reviewing and analyzing vendor invoices, resolving any discrepancies or errors, and ensuring all payments are processed in a timely manner. You may also be involved in managing vendor relationships and negotiating payment terms. 

Accounts Payable Coordinator

As an Accounts Payable Coordinator, you will be responsible for managing the accounts payable process and ensuring smooth financial operations.

This includes tasks such as processing invoices, handling vendor management, and performing account reconciliations. With opportunities for career growth and development, this position offers a chance to further specialize in the field of finance. Yet you can still contribute to the overall financial health of an organization.

According to job listings on various websites, there are numerous accounts payable coordinator positions available in different companies and locations. The employment options include full-time, part-time, contract, or contract-to-hire work.

Part Time & Remote Jobs

Here are some related job opportunities you may find of interest.

Accounts Payable Specialist

• Job Description: Process invoices, schedule and prepare payments, resolve purchase order, contract, invoice, or payment discrepancies.
• Requirements: Basic understanding of accounting principles, attention to detail, familiarity with bookkeeping software.
• Estimated Salary: $18-25/hour
• Benefits: Flexible hours, option for remote work.

Virtual Bookkeeper

• Job Description: Managing financial records, including transactions and accounts payable for clients remotely.
• Requirements: Familiarity with accounting software, good with numbers, attention to detail.
• Estimated Salary: $20-35/hour
• Benefits: Work from home, flexible schedule.

Accounts Payable Clerk

• Job Description: Assist in maintaining accounts payable records, including data entry and generating checks.
• Requirements: Basic computer skills, attention to detail.
• Estimated Salary: $15-20/hour
• Benefits: Stable hours, learning experience in finance.

Accounts Payable Analyst

• Job Description: Review and analyze accounts payable transactions, ensure compliance, and recommend process improvements.
• Requirements: Background in accounting, analytical skills.
• Estimated Salary: $20-28/hour
• Benefits: Option for remote work, career growth potential.

Part-time Invoice Processor

• Job Description: Process invoices part-time, perform data entry, and assist with accounts payable tasks.
• Requirements: Basic computer skills, attention to detail.
• Estimated Salary: $15-22/hour
• Benefits: Flexible hours, work-life balance.

Freelance Accounts Payable Consultant

• Job Description: Provide freelance consulting services in accounts payable, including process improvements and compliance.
• Requirements: Expertise in accounts payable, consulting experience.
• Estimated Salary: $30-60/hour
• Benefits: Work from anywhere, high earning potential.

Accounts Payable Assistant

• Job Description: Assist the accounts payable team with data entry, filing, and basic bookkeeping tasks.
• Requirements: Basic computer skills, organizational skills.
• Estimated Salary: $14-18/hour
• Benefits: Entry into the finance field, stable hours.

Expense Report Auditor

• Job Description: Review and audit employee expense reports for compliance with company policies.
• Requirements: Attention to detail, basic accounting knowledge.
• Estimated Salary: $18-24/hour
• Benefits: Remote work options, career growth potential.

Travel & Expense Administrator

• Job Description: Manage and process travel and expense reports, and assist with accounts payable duties.
• Requirements: Familiarity with accounting software, organizational skills.
• Estimated Salary: $20-26/hour
• Benefits: Opportunities for remote work, career advancement.

Accounts Payable Manager

• Job Description: Oversee the accounts payable department, develop processes, and manage the team.
• Requirements: Several years of accounts payable experience, leadership skills.
• Estimated Salary: $25-40/hour
• Benefits: Leadership role, potential for bonuses.

Please note that the estimated salaries and benefits may vary depending on various factors such as location, experience, and market demand.

You can also find remote account payable jobs with organizations such as Disney,Target, and American Express.

What People Say

Here’s what people have to say, based on their own personal experiences: 

“I appreciate the flexibility my role as an Accounts Payable Specialist offers. Working remotely has allowed me to better balance my personal and professional life. 

The salary is decent, and the occasional tight deadlines can be stressful, but overall, the support from the team makes it a good place to work.”

Cedric Holloway, Eau Claire, Wisconsin

“As a Virtual Bookkeeper, I've found it rewarding to manage financial records for various clients. The company offers a competitive hourly rate, and I appreciate the autonomy in my daily tasks. However, sometimes the workload can be unpredictable.”

Amara Goodwin, Twin Falls, Idaho

“My position as an Accounts Payable Analyst is both challenging and fulfilling. The company encourages professional development, and the benefits package is comprehensive. However, there can be occasional miscommunication between departments that create extra work.”

Octavia Beckett, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

“Working as an Expense Report Auditor, I like the fact that my role has a clear focus and that I’m helping to ensure compliance within the company. The team I work with is collaborative, though sometimes the work can be a bit monotonous.”

Leopold Manning, Medicine Hat, Canada

“I work as an Accounts Payable Manager, and I am pleased with the leadership role I have been given. 

The company values my input in developing processes, and the salary is competitive. The challenges include managing a diverse team, but the rewarding part is seeing the positive impact on the company.”

Seraphina Caldwell, Rolla, Missouri

Top Opportunities

You can undertake remote jobs and work from home positions from anywhere in the world. But to give you further insights into the best opportunities, here are the top 20 locations where demand is high in this sector:

• San Francisco, California
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Denver, Colorado
• Fort Worth, Texas
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Sacramento, California
• Portland, Oregon
• Kansas City, Missouri
• Raleigh, North Carolina
• Washington, D.C.
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Nashville, Tennessee
• Mesa, Arizona
• Long Beach, California
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Omaha, Nebraska
• Miami, Florida
• Honolulu, Hawaii

Many large corporations also offer remote jobs you can do from anywhere. Look out for opportunities with major employers of work-from-home professionals, such as:

• Dell Technologies
• Amazon
• Salesforce
• American Express
• Philips
• Adobe
• Humana
• Aetna
• PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
• SAP

These companies offer full-time, part-time, and entry-level remote jobs in customer service, data entry, virtual assistant, transcription, and administrative assistant roles.

The Role And Responsibilities

The precise nature of the job varies from company to company. But the overarching them is a commitment to ensuring that the company maintains a good payment record with suppliers.

Overseeing Transactions And Expenditures

Accounts payable professionals play a crucial role in overseeing transactions and expenditures within an organization. They are responsible for managing and processing invoices, ensuring that all financial records are accurate, and making timely payments to vendors and suppliers.

By keeping a close eye on these transactions, accounts payable professionals help maintain the financial health of a company. This includes identifying any discrepancies or fraudulent activities. Their attention to detail ensures regulatory compliance and helps manage cash flow effectively.

With the rise of remote work options, you can now enjoy the benefits of flexible schedules while still maintaining productivity and reducing commuting costs. 

Flexible work arrangements have become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing you to achieve better work-life balance while excelling in this role.

Ensuring Financial Records Are Accurate

Accounts payable professionals play a vital role in ensuring the accuracy of financial records. They are responsible for meticulously reviewing and verifying invoices. They also ensure that all entries and transactions are properly recorded and accounted for.

The Importance Of Accounts Payable Jobs

Ever company needs to pay its bills on time to avoid the risk of losing suppliers or being forced into insolvency. This makes this job one that cannot be ignored. As a result, experts in this field are very much in demand, for multiple reasons.

Ensuring Regulatory Compliance

This is a vital responsibility for accounts payable professionals. You must stay up-to-date with financial regulations and laws to ensure that all transactions and expenditures align with legal requirements.

Failing to comply with regulations can result in severe penalties, legal consequences, and damage to the reputation of the organization. 

You will play a crucial role in maintaining accurate records, adhering to accounting standards, and following established protocols for invoice processing and payment approvals.

By ensuring regulatory compliance, you will contribute to the overall financial health of the company while building trust with stakeholders such as auditors, tax authorities, and vendors alike.

Managing Cash Flow

Managing cash flow involves overseeing the movement of money within an organization. It also involves ensuring funds are available to cover expenses and meet financial obligations.

The job includes monitoring incoming and outgoing payments, tracking outstanding invoices, and working closely with vendors to ensure timely payments are made.

Additionally, they collaborate with other departments to forecast future cash needs and make informed decisions regarding budgeting and investing. 

Potential Career Progression

Accounts payable professionals have many opportunities to advance. Starting as an entry-level clerk, individuals can work their way up to becoming specialists, coordinators, and managers.

With further experience and expertise, there are also options to specialize in areas such as auditing or transition to other roles within finance. Explore the exciting potential for growth and advancement in a career in accounts payable.

From Clerk To Specialist To Manager

Moving up the career ladder in accounts payable is a common path for professionals in this field. Starting as a clerk, individuals can gain experience and develop their skills to become specialists or managers.

This progression allows for increased responsibilities and opportunities for advancement. Companies like GoFreelance offer a variety of accounts payable roles, including entry-level positions that provide valuable training and hands-on experience.

The ability to transition from clerk to specialist to manager showcases the growth potential within this field. With the right qualifications and dedication, individuals can continue climbing the ranks and pursuing rewarding careers in finance and business.

Opportunities For Further Specialization

You will also have the opportunity to specialize, expanding your knowledge and skills. This may involve specializing in a specific industry, such as construction or healthcare, or focusing on a particular aspect of accounts payable, like auditing or vendor management.

Pursuing additional certifications or advanced education courses can help you enhance your expertise and open doors to more senior-level positions.

With the flexibility of remote work options available through platforms like FlexJobs, individuals can explore these opportunities without geographical limitations.

Transitioning To Other Roles In Finance

Professionals in accounts payable have the opportunity to transition into various other roles within the finance industry. 

Thanks to a strong foundation in financial management and record-keeping, they can explore avenues such as becoming a staff accountant, controller, accounting manager, or even a chief financial officer (CFO).

This career progression allows individuals to expand their skill set and take on more responsibility. Additionally, accounts payable professionals can also specialize in areas like auditing, banking, bookkeeping, or operations.

The flexibility of transitioning to different roles in finance provides exciting growth opportunities for those looking to advance their careers further.

The Benefits 

There are many advantages to launching a career in this lucrative field field, so this is definitely a field that deserves serious consideration. 

Work-life Balance

Remote and flexible accounts payable jobs offer a work-life balance that you may love. With the chance to work from home or choose flexible schedules, you can better manage your personal responsibilities and commitments while still excelling in your career.

These positions provide an opportunity for professionals to achieve greater harmony between their professional goals and personal life. There are many different remote work options such as 100% remote work or hybrid arrangements, allowing you to customize the way you work. 

Various schedule options are available, including full-time, part-time, and contract schedules. These are accessible at every career level from entry-level to experienced management roles.

Increased Productivity

Remote accounts payable jobs have been found to significantly increase productivity. Studies have shown that employees who work remotely or have the flexibility to choose their work environment are more focused, motivated, and less likely to experience burnout.

Without the distractions of a traditional office setting, professionals in accounts payable can dedicate uninterrupted time to processing invoices, managing financial records, and ensuring accurate transactions.

Additionally, remote work eliminates commuting time and allows employees to structure their day around their most productive hours. This increased productivity not only benefits individual professionals but also contributes to the overall success of finance departments and businesses as a whole.

Reduced Commuting Costs

Remote and flexible accounts payable jobs offer the advantage of reduced commuting costs. Working from home or a location of your choice means you can cut out the need for daily travel to and from the office.

This saves you time and cuts down on transportation expenses such as gas, parking fees, and public transport fares. 

With remote work options becoming more common in today's job market, you have the chance to enjoy a better work-life balance while saving money on your daily commute.

Securing An Accounts Payable Job

Start by honing the necessary skills and qualifications, such as proficiency in financial software and attention to detail. Prepare for interviews by researching common interview questions and practicing your responses.

Look for Accounts Payable job listings on jobs websites, filtering your search based on location, job type, and career level.

Required Skills And Qualifications

To secure an accounts payable job, you need a combination of skills and qualifications. Employers often look for candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, although some positions may require an associate's degree or higher.

Strong attention to detail is required, as accounts payable professionals are responsible for accurately processing invoices and maintaining financial records. Excellent organizational and time management skills are also important. You must be able to meet deadlines and handle multiple tasks.

You need proficiency in basic accounting software and spreadsheets, as well as knowledge of relevant financial regulations and processes. Effective communication skills are valued for liaising with vendors and internal stakeholders.

Preparing For Interviews

You should research the company and familiarize yourself with its accounting practices, as well as getting to know the specific role you are applying for.

Showcasing your organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in financial software. This can enhance your chances of landing the job. Remember to highlight your experience with invoice processing, vendor management, and account reconciliation during the interview, too. Be ready to answer questions about tax filing procedures or annual audits.  

Where To Find Accounts Payable Job Listings

GoFreelance is an excellent resource for finding accounts payable job listings. They offer a wide range of job categories, including positions in finance and accounting, making it easy to search specifically for accounts payable roles.

Whether you're looking for a remote or office-based position, this site provides users with the flexibility to filter their search results based on location, job type, and company segment. 

The website also offers detailed information about each job listing, including estimated pay, company ratings, and potential career progression opportunities.

With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive database of job openings in various companies across different locations, FlexJobs is a valuable tool for anyone seeking employment in accounts payable. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the most common queries we receive on this topic.

Q. What’s the best way to find a high-paying job I can do from anywhere?

A: We recommend you sign up for remote job alerts (free) to get notified of new work-from-home jobs matched to your needs.

Q: What are account payable jobs?

A: Accounts payable jobs are positions that focus on managing a company's financial obligations by ensuring that all invoices and bills are paid accurately and on time.

Q: What is the salary range for account payable positions?

A: The salary range for accounts payable positions varies depending on the level of experience and the location of the job. However, the average hourly rate for accounts payable clerks is around $18 per hour.

Q: What are the duties of an accounts payable clerk?

A: The duties of an accounts payable clerk include processing invoices, reconciling statements, coding invoices with appropriate account numbers, and maintaining accurate records in the accounts payable ledger.

Q: How can I search for account payable jobs?

A: You can search for account payable jobs by using job search websites, corporate career pages, or by contacting staffing agencies that specialize in finance and accounting jobs in your area.

Q: Can I work remotely?

A: Yes, there are remote accounts payable jobs available, especially in the current working environment where many companies have shifted to remote work due to the pandemic.

Q: Are there part-time jobs available?

A: Yes, there are part-time accounts payable jobs available that offer flexible schedules, which can be beneficial for students, stay-at-home parents, or individuals with other commitments.

Q: What skills are required?

A: A strong accounts payable candidate should possess attention to detail, strong organizational and communication skills, proficiency in accounting software and processes, and the ability to adhere to standard procedures to ensure timely and accurate disbursement of payments.

Q: How can I get hired?

A: To get hired for an accounts payable position, you should have a strong resume highlighting relevant work experience, education, and skills in accounting and finance. It's also important to have a positive attitude, be a team player, and actively apply to jobs through job search websites, corporate career pages, or by contacting staffing agencies in your preferred location.

A Promising Career Path

In conclusion, account payable jobs offer a promising career path in the finance and business industry. With various roles available, such as specialists, managers, and analysts, professionals in this field play a crucial role in ensuring financial health and regulatory compliance.

The increasing demand for remote and flexible work options further enhances the appeal of these positions. By securing an accounts payable job, individuals can enjoy rewarding opportunities for growth while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.