SPECIALIST - ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Position: SPECIALIST - ACCOUNTS PAYABLE Department: Treasurer's Office - Non-Represented Fair Labor Standards Act Status: Nonexempt (Hourly) Reports to: Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer Contract: 260 days District Overview Lakota Local School District is a vibrant and dynamic educational community, serving over 18,000 students. Everything WE do is designed to provide a future-ready, student-centered learning experience for every single child. Summary The SPECIALIST - ACCOUNTS PAYABLE Specialist supports the financial operations of Lakota Local Schools by ensuring the accurate and timely processing of all district payables. This role focuses on vendor invoice processing, purchase order reconciliation, payment issuance, and ensuring compliance with district policies and state regulations. The Specialist plays a key role in supporting the fiscal health of the district through accuracy, consistency, and professional communication. Minimum Qualifications

• High School degree or equivalent.
• Associate's degree preferred.
• 3 years of experience in accounts payable, bookkeeping, or related fiscal services.
• Valid driver's license. Key Responsibilities Accounts Payable Operations
• Review, verify, and process vendor invoices for accuracy, proper documentation, and compliance with district purchasing policies.
• Process and issue payments to vendors, including checks, ACH, and electronic payments.
• Reconcile monthly statements and resolve discrepancies with vendors promptly and professionally.
• Maintain organized records of invoices, payments, purchase orders, and supporting documentation.
• Monitor outstanding payables and communicate payment status to vendors.
• Assist with year-end closing processes and provide documentation for internal and external audits.

Financial Coordination

• Verify account coding and ensure accurate processing in the district's financial software.
• Assist with purchase order management, ensuring expenditures align with budget allocations.
• Work collaboratively with district departments to resolve invoice, payment, and procurement issues. Vendor & Internal Communication
• Serve as the primary contact for vendor billing inquiries.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with staff regarding invoice status, payment timing, and required documentation.
• Maintain strong working relationships with internal departments and external vendors. Administrative Support
• Support preparation of financial reports and documentation as needed.
• Maintain accurate digital and physical AP filing systems.
• Assist in preparing materials for audits and monitoring compliance with district fiscal procedures. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) Knowledge
• Working knowledge of accounts payable processes and accounting principles.
• Familiarity with fiscal regulations and compliance standards.
• Understanding of school district or public-sector financial operations preferred. Skills
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Problem-solving and analytical skills for identifying and resolving discrepancies.
• Proficiency in financial software systems and Microsoft Excel. Abilities
• Maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive financial information.
• Adapt to changing priorities and work efficiently in a dynamic environment.
• Work both independently and collaboratively while providing excellent customer service. Working Conditions
• Primarily office-based with some travel to schools across the district.
• Occasional evening or weekend meetings to accommodate community or parent engagement events.
• Interaction with diverse groups of people requiring adaptability, cultural sensitivity and patience.
• Ability to lift, push or pull up to 20lbs.

This job description is subject to change and in no manner states or implies that these are the only duties and responsibilities to be performed by the employee. The employee will be required to follow the instructions and perform the duties required by the employee's supervisor and/or appointing authority. Lakota Local School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer Board Approved: March 23rd, 2026.