Accounts payable and receivable clerks
Controller Job Description
Accounting clerks play a vital role in most businesses and organizations by maintaining financial records and assisting with the general operations of the finance department. In many smaller or local businesses, accounting clerks might handle a broad spectrum of accounting duties such as general bookkeeping, payroll, accounts payable and accounts receivable. In larger corporations and business organizations, accounting clerks tend to be assigned a very specific role in the finance department. For example, one clerk may handle multiple categories of related tasks such as accounts payable and accounts receivable. Accounts payable and receivable clerks work in a variety of industries and organizations. All businesses, both large and small, use accounts payable and receivable clerks to manage their financial transactions, statements, and records. Federal, state and municipal government agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations also employ these specialized clerks to monitor revenue streams, send out invoices and pay financial obligations as they come due.
Attention to detail is a crucial skill for an accounts receivable clerk to have, as they are responsible for accurately recording and tracking customer information. Communication skills are essential in any office environment, and an accounts receivable clerk needs to be able to communicate effectively with coworkers, managers and customers. Accounts receivable clerks use mathematical skills to calculate figures, input data and perform other tasks. An accounts receivable clerk needs to be organized to keep track of customer information, invoices and payments. Organization skills can help you keep track of all the information you need to do your job. Problem-solving skills are essential for an accounts receivable clerk, as they are often the first point of contact for customers and suppliers. A good accounts payable clerk produces accurate, timely, and valuable work.
Most employers require accounts payable and receivable clerks to have obtained at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. While some employers offer entry-level positions that do not require prior experience or training, employers almost always show preference to candidates with several years of accounting-related experience or some formal education. For this reason, would-be accounts payable and receivable clerks often pursue associate’s degrees in accounting, finance or payroll accounting. In today’s competitive job market, candidates with specialized skills and training may have an advantage over those who lack formal education that gives them some background in the field in lieu of experience. Employers rarely require job candidates to hold a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field in order to be considered for accounts payable and receivable clerk positions. However, individuals holding bachelor’s degrees often seek clerk positions as a way of gaining employment in a specific company or industry, while ultimately intent on pursuing promotions.
Typical duties of a Controller
• Process outgoing payments in compliance with financial policies and procedures
• Perform day to day financial transactions, including verifying, classifying, and recording accounts payable data
• Reconcile the accounts payable ledger to ensure that all bills and payments are accounted for and properly posted.
• Verify and investigate discrepancies, if any, by reconciling vendor accounts and monthly vendor statements
• Facilitate payment of invoices due by sending bill reminders and contacting clients
• Generate reports detailing accounts payables status
• Understand expense accounts and cost centers
• Understands compliance issues around accounts payable processes (W-9, sales tax, etc.)
Skills:
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• High attention to detail and organization
• Proficiency with financial software
• Strong independent research ability
Qualifications: BSc degree in Finance, Accounting or Business Administration