Accounts Payable Specialist

We are looking for an Accounts Payable Specialist to join an industrial automation organization on a contract basis in Chicago, Illinois. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a detail-focused environment and can confidently manage complex invoice workflows with accuracy and urgency. You will support core accounts payable operations, coordinate approvals across departments, and help ensure payments and reconciliations are completed correctly and on schedule.

Responsibilities:

• Review and process accounts payable invoices, including lower-volume submissions that require significant analysis due to lengthy and detailed supporting documentation.
• Coordinate with internal departments to obtain timely invoice approvals and keep payment workflows moving efficiently.
• Prepare payment documentation by validating vendor details, invoice totals, and scheduled due dates before release.
• Reconcile vendor statements and account activity to identify discrepancies and resolve outstanding items.
• Match purchase orders to supplier invoices and investigate exceptions when purchase order information is missing or incomplete.
• Perform additional reconciliations involving customer payments, tariff-related charges, and government reimbursement activity.
• Maintain organized records and supporting documentation to ensure audit-ready accounts payable files.
• Communicate with vendors and internal stakeholders to clarify invoice questions and support accurate financial processing.
• At least 3 years of accounts payable experience, preferably within a large corporate environment.
• Proven ability to work through detailed and complex invoices with a high degree of accuracy.
• Intermediate to advanced Excel skills, including experience using pivot tables and spreadsheet-based analysis tools.
• Hands-on knowledge of invoice coding, account coding, ACH processes, and payment run preparation.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines consistently.
• Quick learning ability and comfort adapting to established financial processes and documentation requirements.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for working with vendors and cross-functional teams.