Hybrid Accounts Payable Specialist: Automate & Optimize

Exponent; Phoenix (AZ); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Exponent is seeking an Accounts Payable Associate to join our Finance/Accounting team in Phoenix, AZ. You will process AP transactions, ensure accurate coding, and maintain vendor and employee expense records while supporting audits and process improvements.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, uphold internal controls, and navigate a highly automated AP environment with a hybrid in-office schedule requiring at least three days on-site.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or progress toward degree in a related field, or substantial finance experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to investigate discrepancies and drive resolution.
• Solid understanding of accounting principles and ability to apply judgment to expenses, accruals, and period-end activities.
• Experience with Ramp or similar AP automation platforms preferred.
• Advanced Excel skills (PivotTables, VLOOKUP, large data analysis).
• Ability to operate in a highly automated AP environment with emphasis on control and issue resolution.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Hybrid work schedule with at least three days per week in the Phoenix office.
• Authorized to work in the United States; no immigration sponsorship required.

Responsibilities

• Process vendor invoices and payments through the Accounting System with accurate coding and supporting documentation.
• Review employee expense reports for documentation, coding, business purpose, approvals, and policy compliance.
• Support vendor onboarding and maintenance, including W-9s and payment information.
• Assist with PO/invoice discrepancies and AP process improvements.
• Monitor approval workflows, research exceptions, and follow up on outstanding approvals.
• Communicate with vendors and internal stakeholders to resolve inquiries.
• Support various payment methods (ACH, wires, checks) and assess use tax when applicable.
• Maintain AP records for month-end close, reconciliations, audits, and reporting.
• Collaborate with Accounting, Purchasing, and project teams to enable procure-to-pay processes.
• Contribute to process documentation, training, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Strong communication

Detail oriented

Hybrid work adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Progress toward degree

Tools

Ramp AP automation

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Exponent is seeking an Accounts Payable Associate to join our Finance/Accounting team in Phoenix, AZ. You will process AP transactions, ensure accurate coding, and maintain vendor and employee expense records while supporting audits and process improvements.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, uphold internal controls, and navigate a highly automated AP environment with a hybrid in-office schedule requiring at least three days on-site.