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Accounts Payable Analyst - Accounts Payable - Shift 1
Accounting - Accounts Payable Full-Time Regular Clerical USA - CA - BAKERSFIELD, Bakersfield, CA, US
4 days ago Requisition ID: 2215
Salary Range: $27.00 To $33.00 Hourly
THE ROLE:
- This position will report to the: Supervisor
- FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
- Shift: 1st
- Employment Category: Full-time Regular
- Pay Range: $27.00 - $33.00
STRONG HISTORY. EXCITING FUTURE
Bolthouse Fresh Foods is a leader in carrot production, serving as a grower, packer, processor, and shipper. Headquartered in Bakersfield, California, we are a proud employer to 1,600 dedicated individuals. Since 1915, we have been committed to growing and producing high-quality carrots, and today, we are one of North America's largest growers and distributors of fresh carrots for cooking and snacking. Additionally, we supply premium natural ingredients for the food and beverage industry. With over a century of excellence, Bolthouse Fresh products are available at major retailers across North America.
Bolthouse Fresh Foods has approximately 1,600 employees.
WHAT YOU'LL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR IN THIS ROLE
The Accounts Payable Analyst is responsible for the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of both purchase order (PO) and non-purchase order (non-PO) invoices while serving as an advanced resource within the Accounts Payable function. This position performs complex invoice processing, vendor statement reconciliations, exception resolution, reporting, and process improvement activities to support efficient and controlled AP operations.
The Accounts Payable Analyst utilizes advanced Accounts Payable automation tools, ERP systems, and analytical skills to identify and resolve issues, improve processing efficiency, and support positive vendor relationships. This role requires strong communication skills, proactive problem-solving capabilities, technical aptitude, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
This position plays a key role in maintaining audit readiness, strengthening internal controls, improving vendor service levels, and supporting operational excellence across the organization
- Independently process and review both PO and Non-PO invoices from receipt through posting and payment readiness.
- Perform 2-way and 3-way matching of invoices, purchase orders, and receiving documentation.
- Review invoices for accuracy, completeness, proper coding, supporting documentation, and policy compliance.
- Resolve pricing, quantity, receipt, tax, coding, and approval discrepancies.
- Monitor invoice queues, ageing reports, and workflow backlogs to ensure payment terms and service-level expectations are achieved.
- Research and resolve complex invoice exceptions in a timely and professional manner.
- Escalate significant issues, risks, or recurring trends to AP leadership as appropriate.
- Support month-end and year-end close activities by ensuring invoices are accurately recorded in the proper accounting period.
- Perform other duties as assigned
AP Automation & Systems Expertise
- Serve as a power user of AP automation and invoice workflow systems.
- Utilize AP automation software to manage invoice capture, workflow routing, exception handling, and invoice processing activities.
- Troubleshoot invoice workflow and system-related issues.
- Work with internal stakeholders and system administrators to resolve automation and processing challenges.
- Participate in testing, validation, and implementation of AP system enhancements and upgrades.
- Assist in identifying opportunities to increase automation, eliminate manual processes, and improve efficiency.
- Maintain a strong understanding of ERP functionality and AP system controls.
- Perform recurring vendor statement reconciliations and account analysis.
- Research and resolve missing invoices, unapplied credits, duplicate payments, aging items, and disputed balances.
- Coordinate with vendors and internal departments to resolve discrepancies and outstanding issues.
- Document reconciliation activities and maintain supporting records.
- Identify trends impacting vendor account accuracy and recommend corrective actions.
- Ensure vendor account balances are accurate and appropriately supported.
- Serve as a primary point of contact for escalated vendor inquiries and payment-related concerns.
- Maintain professional relationships with vendors and internal business partners.
- Collaborate with Procurement, Receiving, Operations, Treasury, and Accounting teams to resolve invoice and payment exceptions.
- Communicate invoice status, requirements, and resolution plans clearly and professionally.
- Provide guidance to internal stakeholders regarding AP policies, procedures, and documentation requirements.
- Deliver responsive and customer-focused support to internal and external customers.
Reporting, Analysis & Problem Solving
- Analyze AP performance metrics, aging reports, exception queues, and processing trends.
- Identify root causes of recurring issues and recommend sustainable solutions.
- Support the development of reports and perform analysis to support operational decision-making.
- Support, update, and develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for current and updated processes.
- Monitor vendor trends and identify opportunities to improve service levels and payment accuracy.
- Utilize data and reporting tools to drive informed recommendations and process improvements.
Compliance, Controls & Audit Support
- Adhere to internal control requirements and segregation of duties standards.
- Ensure compliance with company accounting policies, approval matrices, and document retention requirements.
- Support internal and external audits by providing requested documentation and explanations.
- Assist in maintaining audit readiness through accurate and complete recordkeeping.
- Maintain confidentiality of financial, vendor, and company information.
- Identify opportunities to improve AP processes, controls, accuracy, and efficiency.
- Participate in automation and process improvement initiatives.
- Assist with documenting procedures and best practices.
- Recommend workflow enhancements that improve the employee and vendor experience.
- Demonstrate initiative, accountability, and a continuous improvement mindset.
- Support a culture of operational excellence and process standardization.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Required Skills and Abilities:
- Strong knowledge of full-cycle Accounts Payable processes, internal controls, and financial transaction management.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, formulas, reporting, and data analysis.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving with the ability to identify issues, evaluate root cause, and implement effective solutions.
- Inability to effectively utilize ERP systems and financial software applications to support Accounts Payable operations.
- Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Ability to work independently and exercise good sound judgement in decision-making.
- Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
- Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships across all levels of the organization.
- Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and commitment to ethical business practices.
- Positive attitude and commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree required in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Economics, Management Information Systems, Supply Chain Management, or another related field.
- Minimum five (5) years of progressive Accounts Payable experience in a high-volume environment, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and Accounts Payable experience.
- Demonstrated experience processing invoices and managing full-cycle Accounts Payable activities.
- Experience performing vendor statement reconciliation and resolving account discrepancies.
- Experience utilizing Account Payable automation software and invoice workflow technologies.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
- Experience working within ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, or similar platforms.
- Candidates must have a verifiable history of safe vehicle operation and meet company standards for driving eligibility. This includes maintaining a clean driving record, which will be verified through a background check.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in manufacturing, agriculture, food production, distribution, or multi-entity environments.
- Experience supporting AP system implementations, upgrades, or automation initiatives.
- Experience developing and utilizing reports, dashboards, or performance metrics.
- Understanding of accounting concepts related to accruals, expense recognition, and period-end close.
- Exposure to Lean, Continuous Improvement, or process optimization methodologies.
- Experience supporting internal and external audits
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Work is performed primarily in a standard office environment with frequent interruptions.
- Ability and mobility to work in an office setting; to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time; to occasionally stoop, bend, climb, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist.
- Lift, carry, push, and/or pull light to moderate amounts of weight up to 30 lbs.
- Operate office equipment