Accounting Specialist-AP

Did you know that Signal Centers has been recognized as one of the best employers to work for in Tennessee and one of the best nonprofits to work for in the country? Come see what all the fuss is about!

The Accounts Payable Specialist plays a vital role in ensuring the timely and accurate processing of financial transactions related to payables. This position is responsible for overseeing the full-cycle accounts payable process, managing vendor relationships, ensuring compliance with internal controls, grant requirements, and audit standards, and supporting month-end close and financial reporting. The AP Specialist is a key contributor to the integrity and efficiency of the financial operations within the Accounting Department at Signal Centers.

Qualifications:

• Associate's or Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred.
• At least 3 years of experience in accounts payable or nonprofit accounting required.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, internal controls, and nonprofit or grant compliance preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with Microsoft Dynamics GP (Great Plains) is strongly preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a mission-driven, fast-paced environment.

Job Responsibilities:Review, verify, and process all invoices and payment requests in accordance with organizational policies and grant compliance requirements.Ensure accurate coding of invoices to appropriate general ledger accounts, programs, and cost centers.

• Prepare and process weekly check runs, ACH transfers, and other payment methods.
• Maintain vendor records, including W-9s, payment terms, and contract details.
• Reconcile vendor accounts and resolve discrepancies in a timely and professional manner.
• Monitor aging reports and proactively follow up on outstanding balances or issues.

Compliance & Documentation:

• Ensure accounts payable documentation is complete, accurate, and audit-ready.
• Assist with documentation and support for external audits, internal reviews, and grant-specific reporting.
• Maintain confidentiality and security of financial data and vendor records.
• Support procurement policies by ensuring appropriate approvals and documentation are attached to all payables.

Financial Reporting & Month-End Close:

• Assist in monthly accruals and journal entries related to accounts payable.
• Reconcile AP subledger to the general ledger each month.
• Support the accounting team with reports and schedules related to payables for board meetings, grant reports, or budget review.

Systems & Process Improvement:

• Utilize financial systems, primarily Microsoft Dynamics GP (Great Plains), to enter and manage data.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, systems, and reporting in collaboration with finance leadership.
• Assist in implementation or upgrades of accounting software and automation tools (e.g., ZIP, Bill.com).

Cross-Departmental Collaboration:

• Collaborate with purchasing, operations, and program staff to ensure accurate and timely payments.
• Provide support and training to staff on invoice submission, coding, and compliance protocols.
• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders regarding payment status and procedures.

Benefits:

We believe in supporting our employees and their families as they journey throughout life. We are committed to offering a rich benefits package to all full-time employees to include:

• Competitive benefits package that includes - Health, Vision and Dental, HSA, Dependent Care FSA, Group Life Insurance, Teladoc (Telemedicine), Short & Long-Term Disability and more.
• Up to 4% matching 401(k) employer contribution, plus a 3% base.
• Mental Health Support.
• Generous paid time off.

Signal Centers is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to affirm the dignity and worth of every person in all that we do. It is, therefore, the policy of the organization to practice and ensure the fair and equitable treatment of all employees and to promote the full realization of this policy through all employment practices.