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If you’ve Googled “Accounts Payable Specialist job description”, chances are you’ve seen dozens of nearly identical posts:
Bullet points. Buzzwords. Boilerplate phrases like “detail-oriented” and “team player.”
But here’s the problem—none of that actually helps you attract great candidates.
Most job descriptions are just checklists. They don’t tell the candidate who they’ll work with, what the team values, or why the role matters. And as a result, the best applicants scroll right past them.
That’s why this guide is different.
Instead of giving you another copy-paste job description with no soul, this article will:
- Explain what an Accounts Payable Specialist actually does—in plain English
- Show you two great job description templates (experienced vs. entry-level)
- Break down what makes them work
- Reveal the red flags in bad job descriptions
- And give you bonus tips to make sure your post stands out, even in a crowded job market
Before we dive in, if you want to understand why most job descriptions fall flat—and how to write one that actually connects with top talent—check out full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/.
Let’s start by demystifying what this role is really about.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
What An Accounts Payable Specialist Actually Is
An Accounts Payable Specialist ensures your bills get paid—accurately, on time, and without errors that hurt your bottom line.
They’re not just pushing numbers. They’re reviewing invoices, matching purchase orders, handling vendor payments, spotting discrepancies, and keeping your records clean and compliant.
This role demands more than data entry:
- Accuracy to avoid costly mistakes
- Follow-through to resolve issues with vendors
- Discretion with sensitive financial data
In short, they help your business run smoothly and stay financially healthy—one invoice at a time.
Two Great Accounts Payable Specialist Job Descriptions
✅ Template 1: For Experienced Accounts Payable Specialists
📌 Job Title: Accounts Payable Specialist — Join the Finance Team at Ledger & Co.
💼 Employment Type: Full-Time | Hybrid (2 days in-office, 3 remote, Downtown Chicago Office)
💵 Pay Range: $24–$28/hour (based on experience)
🎥 Watch this 60-second intro from your future team: [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
About the Role
At Ledger & Co., we help small businesses and startups manage their finances with confidence. We’re looking for an experienced Accounts Payable Specialist who thrives on accuracy and loves keeping things organized. In this role, you’ll help us maintain strong vendor relationships and ensure that every payment is processed properly and on time.
You won’t just be handling invoices—you’ll be a key player in our daily operations and an important part of the finance team.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Process and code invoices into our accounting system (we use NetSuite)
- Match purchase orders and receipts with vendor bills
- Schedule payments and manage approvals
- Reconcile monthly vendor statements
- Communicate with vendors to resolve any discrepancies
- Support our Controller with month-end close and audit prep
What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years experience in accounts payable or finance support
- Proficiency in NetSuite, QuickBooks, or similar software
- Great communication skills—clear, professional, and responsive
- Meticulous attention to detail (you notice the $0.01 errors)
- A calm, organized, problem-solving mindset
Why Work With Us
We’re a tight-knit team that believes in clarity, trust, and continuous improvement. You’ll get full onboarding support, a chance to help shape our processes, and meaningful work from day one. We also offer:
- Competitive hourly pay
- Health and dental benefits
- 20 days paid time off + 6 paid holidays
- Remote flexibility with regular team meetups
- Career development support and CPA mentorship
How We Hire
We respect your time. Every applicant receives a response.
Step 1: Apply via WorkScreen and complete a short, role-relevant task
Step 2: Meet our team for a virtual interview
Step 3: If it’s a mutual fit, we’ll move quickly with an offer
👉 Apply now through WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]
✅ Template 2: Entry-Level / Willing to Train
📌 Job Title: Accounts Payable Assistant – Start Your Finance Career at Ledger & Co.
💼 Employment Type: Full-Time | Entry-Level | On-Site (Downtown Chicago Office)
💵 Pay Range: $18–$22/hour
🎥 Watch: Meet your manager and see how we train new hires → [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
About the Role
Looking for a way to break into the finance world? Ledger & Co. is hiring an Accounts Payable Assistant—no prior finance experience required. You’ll receive full training and hands-on mentorship from day one. If you’re organized, dependable, and eager to learn, we’ll teach you everything else.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Input invoices and verify accuracy
- Match bills to purchase orders
- Prepare payments for approval
- Organize receipts and digital files
- Help with vendor follow-ups and support tasks
- Assist with end-of-month reconciliations
What We’re Looking For
- Comfort with basic spreadsheets (Google Sheets, Excel)
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Great attention to detail and follow-through
- Clear written and verbal communication
- Bonus if you have admin or office experience—but not required
Why Work With Us
We take career growth seriously. You’ll get real mentorship, team support, and a chance to build valuable skills in accounting, vendor relations, and finance tools like NetSuite and QuickBooks. Plus:
- On-the-job training and growth plan
- 15 days PTO + 5 paid holidays
- Team lunches every Friday 🍕
- Office snacks, good coffee, and a manager who supports your goals
- Opportunity to grow into a full AP Specialist or cross-train into billing, payroll, or AR
How We Hire
We want the hiring process to be as welcoming and respectful as our team culture.
Apply via WorkScreen so we can understand your strengths beyond your resume.
We’ll respond within 5 business days. Final candidates are invited to a short video call with the hiring manager and given a chance to ask questions.
👉 Apply through WorkScreen today: [Insert WorkScreen link]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Why These Accounts Payable Specialist Job Posts Work
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Descriptive, and Purpose-Driven
Instead of vague titles like “AP Clerk” or “Finance Admin,” the posts use:
- “Accounts Payable Specialist — Join the Finance Team at Ledger & Co.”
- “Accounts Payable Assistant – Start Your Finance Career at Ledger & Co.”
These titles tell candidates what the role is, who it’s with, and what level of experience is expected. It immediately filters in the right people—and filters out the wrong ones.
✅ 2. The Introductions Offer Context and Personality
Each post starts with a warm, human explanation of:
- What the company does
- Why this role matters
- What kind of person would thrive in it
This isn’t fluff—it’s how you build emotional connection with high-quality candidates. People want to know what they’re joining and how they’ll contribute. These intros give that clarity.
✅ 3. They Balance Clarity and Warmth in the Responsibilities Section
Tasks aren’t just listed—they’re explained in a way that connects to the bigger picture:
“You won’t just be handling invoices—you’ll be a key player in our daily operations.”
Instead of generic bullet points, the descriptions show impact. That’s the difference between sounding like an admin robot vs. someone who owns a meaningful part of the business.
✅ 4. They Include Salary Ranges and Benefits
Transparency isn’t just a “nice to have” anymore—it’s expected by top candidates.
Both posts include pay ranges, PTO, holidays, and perks like:
- Remote flexibility
- Team lunches
- CPA mentorship
- Internal career paths
This builds trust and sets expectations early—so you attract candidates who are aligned with what you offer.
✅ 5. They Feature a Clear, Respectful Hiring Process
Each job post clearly lays out:
- How candidates will apply (via WorkScreen)
- What to expect (evaluation, interview, offer)
- That everyone gets a response
That alone sets your post apart. Many applicants never hear back after applying. Just stating “you’ll get a response” shows you respect their time, which top candidates notice.
✅ 6. They Include a Video From the Team
Adding a video from the hiring manager or team brings the post to life. It:
- Humanizes the company
- Increases trust
- Helps candidates picture themselves there
You don’t need a professional shoot. A simple Loom video works—and makes your post instantly more engaging than 90% of others.
✅ 7. They’re Written in a Tone That Connects
No corporate jargon. No robotic language. These posts are written in a way that feels:
- Human
- Clear
- Friendly
- Professional, but not stiff
That tone attracts people who want to do meaningful work with a team that values clarity, culture, and communication.
✅ 8. They Include a Call to Action That Feels Empowering, Not Transactional
Instead of a cold “submit your resume,” each post invites candidates to apply with purpose:
“Apply through WorkScreen today and complete a short evaluation so we can get to know you better.”
This makes candidates feel seen, invited, and valued—before they even apply.
Example of a Bad Job Description (And Why It Doesn’t Work)
❌ Bad Job Description Example
📌 Job Title: Accounts Payable Clerk
Company: Confidential
Employment Type: Full-Time
Location: On-site
Salary: Not disclosed
Job Summary
We are looking for an Accounts Payable Clerk to perform general accounting and finance duties. The candidate should be reliable, detail-oriented, and able to handle multiple tasks. This position is responsible for processing invoices and performing reconciliations.
Responsibilities
- Enter and process invoices
- Match purchase orders and receipts
- Ensure timely payments
- Handle discrepancies
- File documents as needed
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field
- 2–3 years experience in accounts payable
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office
- Strong analytical and organizational skills
How to Apply
Email your resume and cover letter to: hr@confidentialjob.com
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Flat
🚫 1. The Job Title Is Vague and Flat
“Accounts Payable Clerk” feels outdated and undervalued. It doesn’t communicate the scope, impact, or level of the role—and doesn’t signal who the role is for.
🚫 2. There’s No Company Context
What does the company do? Who will the candidate work with? What’s the mission or culture like?
There’s zero story here—just a task list. That’s a missed opportunity to connect with the right people.
🚫 3. It Omits Salary and Benefits
No mention of compensation, time off, or growth. This kind of post screams “we don’t want to commit” and immediately turns off serious, high-quality applicants.
🚫 4. The Responsibilities Are Generic and Boring
These bullets could’ve been copied from any AP post in the last 20 years. There’s no energy, no insight into the day-to-day, and no sense of how the work contributes to anything larger.
🚫 5. There’s No Culture, Values, or Team Insight
Would you be working alone? Is this a corporate finance team? A startup? A nonprofit? There’s no signal of company values—or whether the environment is fast-paced, collaborative, or growth-focused.
🚫 6. The Hiring Process Feels Cold and Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is one of the coldest phrases in job ads. It tells candidates their effort may not even be acknowledged. In contrast, great job posts offer clarity, timelines, and respect.
🚫 7. The Call to Action Is Passive
There’s no real invitation. No link. No energy. Just an email address and a vague request to submit a resume. It feels more like a formality than a meaningful opportunity.
This is exactly the kind of job description that causes great candidates to scroll past—and leaves companies wondering why they’re only getting low-quality applications.
Bonus Tips That Make Your Job Post Stand Out
Even a great job post can be made even better with thoughtful details most companies skip. These bonus elements help you build trust, reduce candidate anxiety, and create a smoother hiring experience—all while standing out in a crowded job market.
✅ 1. Add a Privacy & Security Notice
Scammers often impersonate legitimate companies in job listings. Including a short “Important Notice” helps candidates feel safe applying and shows that you’re a professional, transparent employer.
📌 Example:
🛡️ Important Notice: We take applicant privacy seriously. We’ll never ask for payment, personal banking details, or private financial info at any stage of the hiring process.
This one line builds a surprising amount of trust.
✅ 2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time (If Offered)
Candidates care about time off—but most job descriptions don’t mention it. Even a simple line about PTO or flex days makes your company feel more humane and attractive.
📌 Example:
🌴 Enjoy 20 days of paid time off + 5 flex days to recharge when you need it.
If you offer sick days, parental leave, or mental health days—mention that too. It shows that you see your team as people, not just roles.
✅ 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Growth is one of the biggest motivators for today’s workforce—especially for entry-level candidates or those changing careers.
📌 Example:
📚 We offer on-the-job training, CPA mentorship, and cross-training opportunities across payroll and billing.
🚀 Want to grow into a Finance Manager role? We’ll help you get there.
This makes the job feel like a stepping stone—not a dead end.
✅ 4. Add a Video From the Hiring Manager or Team
A quick Loom or YouTube video can dramatically increase interest and trust. It doesn’t need to be fancy—just real.
📌 Example Phrases to Use in the Job Post:
🎥 Watch this 60-second intro from our AP team → [Insert Link]
🎥 Here’s what it’s like to work in finance at Ledger & Co. → [Insert Link]
Candidates are far more likely to apply when they can see the people behind the post.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
✅ 5. Give a Warm, Human Application Experience
Most candidates expect ghosting. So when your post includes language like:
“We respond to every application,”
“You’ll hear from us within 5 business days,”
“We respect your time and effort,”
—it immediately sets you apart.
Even if your hiring process is structured, how you talk about it matters. Make it feel like a conversation, not a cold transaction.
These small additions don’t take much effort—but they significantly improve the quality of applicants and the perception of your brand.
Should You Use AI To Write Your Job Posts?
Let’s talk about AI.
Right now, it feels like everyone’s using AI to write job descriptions—especially with built-in tools inside platforms like Manatal, Workable, or Recruitee.
And while AI can help, here’s the truth:
The fastest way to scare off great candidates is to post something that reads like it was written by a robot.
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
When you use AI to auto-generate a job post without giving it real context, you’ll likely end up with:
- Boring, buzzword-filled posts that sound like every other listing
- Zero insight into your actual team, values, or why the job matters
- A disconnect between the tone of your brand and the post itself
These kinds of posts attract the wrong candidates—those mass-applying with zero real interest in your role. Worse, they reflect poorly on your company.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI: Guide It With Real Inputs
AI works best when you provide the ingredients—and let it help you shape, polish, or organize your ideas.
Here’s a smart prompt you can copy and use:
📌 Example AI Prompt to Use for Job Posts
“Help me write a job post for our company, Ledger & Co. We’re hiring an Accounts Payable Specialist to help us manage invoice processing, vendor payments, and reconciliations.
Our culture is collaborative, growth-oriented, and detail-focused. We want to attract candidates who are reliable, organized, and value clear communication.
We offer $24–$28/hour, hybrid flexibility, full health benefits, and mentorship for finance career growth.
Our hiring process includes an evaluation via WorkScreen and two short virtual interviews.
Here are a few draft notes to get started:
[Paste your own bullet points or rough ideas here]
Can you help me write a job post in a conversational, warm, and professional tone?”
This way, you’re not letting AI replace your voice—you’re using it to amplify it.
If you’ve already read through this guide, you’ll notice most of the job posts you admire weren’t auto-generated. They’re thoughtful, personal, and intentional. AI can support that—but it can’t replace it.
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Template
📌 Job Title: Accounts Payable Specialist — Join a Finance Team That Values Precision and People
💼 Type: Full-Time | Hybrid or On-site [Insert Location]
💵 Pay Range: $XX–$XX/hour
🎥 Meet the team you’ll be joining in this short video → [Insert Link]
About the Role
We’re looking for a detail-focused Accounts Payable Specialist to join our finance team and help us manage payments, vendor relationships, and everything in between.
You’ll play a key role in making sure things run smoothly—because when vendors are paid on time and records are accurate, everyone wins.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Reviewing and entering invoices
- Matching purchase orders and receipts
- Managing scheduled payments
- Reconciling statements and resolving discrepancies
- Helping with month-end reporting
What We’re Looking For
- At least 2 years of accounts payable or finance experience
- Familiarity with accounting software (QuickBooks, NetSuite, etc.)
- Sharp attention to detail and problem-solving skills
- Clear communication and follow-through
- Bonus: experience working with vendors or in a fast-paced finance team
Why Join Us
We’re a team that takes our work seriously—but not ourselves. We offer:
- Competitive hourly pay
- Health, dental, and vision coverage
- Paid time off and holidays
- Remote flexibility and a supportive, collaborative team culture
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen and take a short skills evaluation to help us understand how you work. We respond to every applicant and will keep you updated at every step.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen link]
✅ Option 2: Traditional Format (Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements)
📌 Job Title: Accounts Payable Specialist
Location: [Insert Location] | Full-Time | [Remote/Hybrid/On-site]
Pay Range: $XX–$XX/hour
Job Brief
We are seeking a dependable Accounts Payable Specialist to join our finance department. You’ll be responsible for processing invoices, reconciling statements, and ensuring all payments are handled accurately and on time.
Responsibilities
- Enter and process accounts payable invoices
- Match purchase orders and receiving documentation
- Reconcile vendor accounts and resolve discrepancies
- Assist with payment runs and month-end close
- Communicate with vendors regarding billing questions
Requirements
- 2+ years experience in accounts payable or similar role
- Familiarity with accounting systems (e.g., QuickBooks, NetSuite)
- Strong attention to detail and time management
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets
- Good communication and problem-solving skills
Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- PTO and holiday schedule
- Opportunity for growth within the finance department
How to Apply
Submit your application through WorkScreen to complete a quick, role-specific evaluation.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen link]
We’ll respond to every applicant and notify you of next steps within 5 business days.
Let WorkScreen Help You Hire Smarter
Once you’ve written a compelling job post, the next challenge is filtering through applicants efficiently—without wasting time on low-effort submissions or resumes that don’t reflect real ability.
That’s where WorkScreen comes in.
WorkScreen helps you quickly identify high-quality, genuinely skilled candidates—without the noise.
Here’s how it works:
✅ 1. Quickly Spot Top Talent
Every applicant goes through a custom evaluation process. WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores and ranks them on a performance-based leaderboard, so you can spot your top candidates at a glance.
✅ 2. Easily Administer One-Click Skill Tests
Ditch the guesswork. Workscreen helps you administer one-click tests to assess applicants based on what they can actually do—not just what they claim on a resume.
You’ll get clear, data-driven insights into how each person thinks, works, and communicates.
✅ 3. Eliminate Low-Effort and AI-Generated Applicants
WorkScreen filters out low-effort applicants including those who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
Whether you're hiring your first AP Specialist or scaling a full finance team, WorkScreen helps you move fast, reduce costly hiring mistakes, and build a stronger team.
FAQ
The difference often comes down to scope, complexity, and ownership.
- An AP Clerk typically focuses on transactional tasks—entering invoices, basic payment processing, and filing.
- An AP Specialist usually handles more complex responsibilities, such as reconciling vendor accounts, resolving discrepancies, assisting with audits, and supporting month-end close processes.
In many companies, “Specialist” implies a higher level of expertise, independence, and problem-solving ability. It may also involve cross-departmental communication and system improvements.
Here are some of the most valuable skills and traits:
- Attention to detail – Precision is crucial when processing invoices or reconciling accounts.
- Time management – Payment deadlines matter.
- Analytical thinking – Ability to spot and resolve discrepancies quickly.
- Communication – To collaborate with vendors, procurement, and finance teams.
- Software proficiency – Familiarity with systems like QuickBooks, NetSuite, SAP, or Xero.
- Discretion and trustworthiness – The role involves handling sensitive financial information.
Bonus: experience with process automation tools or AP workflow platforms is a plus in modern finance teams.
As of 2025, average hourly and annual pay for AP Specialists varies by location and experience:
- United States average:
- $22–$30/hour
- $45,000–$60,000/year
- $22–$30/hour
- Entry-level roles may start closer to $18/hour.
- Senior roles or specialists in high-cost areas (e.g., NYC, SF) may earn $65,000–$75,000+ annually.
Always consider local market rates and industry-specific benchmarks when setting your salary range.
You can:
- Use skills-based assessments (like those on WorkScreen) to evaluate real-world judgment
- Ask candidates to walk you through past invoice or reconciliation challenges
- Test for accuracy, pattern recognition, and communication with mock vendor scenarios
- Look at consistency in previous roles—strong AP candidates tend to have clean, detail-oriented records
