Accounts Payable Specialist

KIPP Public Schools Northern California•Oakland, CA

12d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Accounts Payable Specialist ensures that KIPP NorCal’s vendors and staff are paid accurately, on time, and in accordance with fiscal policy, safeguarding the public funds that support its schools. Reporting to the Controller and receiving day-to-day direction from the AP Manager, the role maintains accurate accounts payable records and contributes to timely month-end and year-end closing processes for schools and Regional Support Office departments. The position has no direct reports. The specialist completes assigned work within a scope set by others, determines how to approach the work, and escalates issues outside that scope. The role processes invoices in Ramp, tracks approvals and outstanding checks, maintains vendor records, and reviews employee reimbursements, mileage submissions, and credit card transactions against established policies. It also completes assigned AP journal entries, manual checks, and balance sheet reconciliations in Sage Intacct; supports annual 1099 reporting; maintains organized records and internal controls; assists staff with AP policies and systems; and contributes to workflow improvements and special projects. This is a hybrid, full-year, full-time, non-exempt position in Oakland. The hourly pay range is $34.13–$40.38, with most candidates compensated at $35.58. KIPP NorCal offers medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, a retirement plan with employer contribution, and commuter benefits.

Requirements

1–2 years of experience in accounts payable or another accounting role, including invoice processing and vendor payments.
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Working knowledge of AP processes, including GL coding, reimbursements, internal controls, and 1099 reporting.
Ability to use accounting software, spreadsheets, and digital recordkeeping systems to process transactions, maintain accurate records, and meet deadlines.
Strong attention to detail and clear communication with vendors and non-finance colleagues.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a nonprofit, school, or publicly funded organization.
Familiarity with nonprofit accounting, month-end close, and audit preparation.
Familiarity with Ramp, Sage Intacct, or comparable accounts payable and accounting systems.

Responsibilities

Process invoices in Ramp, assign each bill to the correct entity, and verify GL coding and required fields.
Track bills pending school and Regional Support Office approval, vendor onboarding, and outstanding checks; follow up to support accurate, timely payments.
Maintain vendor records, including W-9s, validated bank details, and payment methods, and respond to vendor payment inquiries.
Review employee reimbursements, mileage submissions, and credit card transactions against fiscal policies, escalating exceptions to the AP Manager.
Complete assigned AP-related journal entries and manual checks in Sage Intacct accurately and on schedule.
Complete assigned AP and payroll balance sheet reconciliations in collaboration with Accounts Receivable.
Support annual 1099 reporting by completing the annual review and supporting 1096 and 1099 filings.
Maintain organized AP records and follow internal controls and fiscal policies, grant regulations, and public funding requirements.
Support school and department staff with AP policies, deadlines, and systems so payment requests are correctly coded and submitted on time.
Suggest ways to reduce manual work and strengthen AP workflows, and support special projects as assigned.