Accounts Payable Specialist

Position SummaryThe Accounts Payable Specialist will play a pivotal role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of our financial records and reports. This position requires a deep understanding of accounting principles, strong analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate will contribute to the overall success of the finance/accounting department by providing accurate financial information and assisting with financial processes. This position also delivers on our core focus of:The answer is yes. Be a solutions providerWhile building on our core values of:Help 1stTake ownershipDo the right thingExpect excellenceEssential Duties and ResponsibilitiesPrepare and maintain financial records, including general ledger entries, reconciliations, and journal entries.Ensure compliance with accounting standards, regulations, and company policies.Monitor and analyze financial data to identify discrepancies and recommend corrective actions.Process and verify invoices, expense reports, and purchase orders.Review vendor statements, reconcile accounts, and resolve discrepancies.Prepare and process payments to vendors in a timely manner.Assist in the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.Generate and distribute financial reports and analyses to management and relevant departments.Contribute to the preparation of budgets, forecasts, and variance analyses.Assist with internal and external audits, providing documentation and explanations as required.Maintain up-to-date knowledge of accounting regulations and ensure compliance in financial operations.Utilize accounting software and systems for data entry, reporting, and analysis.Recommend improvements and enhancements to streamline accounting processes.Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including finance, procurement, and management, to address accounting-related inquiries and resolve issues.Ability to work in excess of 40 hours, as business needs ariseRegular and reliable attendanceAny other task or duty that is deemed necessary by management.Cultural CompetenciesHelp First means being a reliable team member serving everyone, internally and externally. At Akers, we believe and exhibit a "roll up your sleeves and get the job done" mentality and behavior. No job is unimportant, and no person is above any job. We demonstrate this through:Able communicator-good clarity, balanced talker, and listenerHas energy and enthusiasmSolution vs. blame orientedTake Ownership means that you think and act like an owner. No matter the role, everyone is empowered to be a good steward of the organization. Each person has the autonomy to make recommendations for improvement to their work and the organization. We demonstrate this through:PatientEffectively assertive and able to handle conflict and confrontational situationsAdvocate for continuous improvementMixture of firmness and flexibilityHas energy and enthusiasmHolds self and others accountableTakes calculated risksDo the Right Thing means that do what's right regardless of its popularity. Having high moral standards is paramount and is the compass that keeps us on track. We demonstrate this through:Systematic trainer, willing and able to develop peopleGood work ethic, task focused and willing to extend extra effortAble to follow structure where it exists and create structure where it does notExpect Excellence means that you do it right the first time. At Akers, we expect excellence in all we do We demonstrate this through:Resilient-able to deal with the unexpected, not easily flusteredHas sense of urgencyFollows up to ensure quality task completionWork Environment / Physical DemandsFast paced environment, requiring adaptation to continuous changes in Company, Customer and People needs.Ability to frequently sit, stand, walk, reach with hands and arm's length, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, and crouch.Ability to regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.Ability to sit for extended periods of time at desk in traditional office environment.Ability to work on site to facilitate collaboration with production facility.Systems UsageMS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams)ADP Workforce NowUtilize accounting software Business CentralQualificationsEducation & ExperienceBachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or equivalent experience.Proven experience as an Accounting Specialist or in a similar role.In-depth knowledge of accounting principles and practices.Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.Preferred QualificationsExperience with systems mentioned above.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.Effective communication and interpersonal skills.Ability to work independently and as part of a team.Strong organizational and time management abilities.Experience in corrugated, strongly preferred.