Staff Accountant - Accounts Payable

This is an onsite position located at 1850 West Roosevelt Road, Chicago, IL 60608

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE:  Responsible for timely processing, coding and payment of all accounts payable items using a computerized accounting system.

SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

Invoice Processing:

• Manage the Accounts Payable inbox in an organized and timely manner, maintaining appropriate folder structures to ensure invoices are accurately routed and processed.
• Match purchase orders and receiving reports to invoices for accuracy.
• Identify and resolve discrepancies or problem invoices promptly.
• Codes vouchers daily using most current chart of accounts and purchaser-provided details; submit to VP of Finance for review.
• Enter invoices into accounting system with all supporting documentation attached daily.
• Obtain required approvals in accordance with agency authorization procedures. Follow up frequently on missing approvals.
• Payment Execution:
• Generate A/P Aging report weekly (Thursday) and review with Controller to determine cash requirements.
• Communicate with Controller regarding invoices requiring expedited payment.
• Prepare checks as directed by Controller, ensuring compliance with authorized signatory procedures..
• Secure signatures and mail checks with appropriate remittance details immediately or distribute per request instructions.

Reporting & Reconciliation:

• Run and reconcile month-end A/P reports within five business days after month-end for review by Controller.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date vendor and ACH listings.
• Prepare monthly reconciliations for assigned general ledger accounts, investigating variances and unusual transactions, resolving reconciling items in a timely manner, and providing detailed support for account balances.
• Vendor Management:
• Maintain regular communication with vendors and internal purchasers to facilitate timely payment of outstanding invoices.
• Respond to vendor inquires via phone/fax or email within 24 hours.
• Establish and maintain vendor records in the accounting system, ensuring all required documentation is obtained and validated, while proactively transitioning vendors to preferred payment methods such as ACH, wire transfers, and virtual or corporate credit cards to improve payment efficiency and controls.

Other:

• Maintain current and detailed Accounts Payable process documentation, reviewing and updating procedures regularly to ensure accuracy and provide effective cross-training and backup support during absences.
• Performs additional duties as assigned by Supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least two years experience in accounts payable required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting preferred.
• Strong communication & organizational skills & detail orientation a plus.
• Proficiency in computerized accounting systems and spreadsheet applications required. Experience with Sage Intacct is a plus.
• Commitment to our mission of providing opportunities for people who are blind, visually impaired, deaf-blind, or multi-disabled is essential.

Employee Benefits

BENEFIT PACKAGE UP TO AN ADDITIONAL 25% OF SALARY INCLUDING:

• 10 days paid vacation
• 12 paid holidays
• 6 sick days accrued over the year
• Insurance Eligibility the 1st of the month after 30 days of employment
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance offered
• Short/long term disability
• Life insurance 2x salary
• Employee recognition events
• Company matched 401(k) plan
• Reasonably priced delicious food options on site (except at Glenview location)

The Chicago Lighthouse for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired is an Equal Opportunity Employer in full compliance with local, state, and federal Civil Rights & Affirmative Action laws. The Chicago Lighthouse for People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired maintains a strong policy of accommodation and a consistent practice of employing qualified individuals with disabilities. All applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, sexual orientation, military status, order of protection status or unfavorable discharge from military service.