Lead Accounts Payable Specialist

University of North Carolina at Wilmington; Wilmington (NC); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Carolina Wilmington is seeking a Lead Accounts Payable Specialist in Wilmington, NC. This permanent, full-time role reports to the AP Manager and mentors a team of AP specialists to ensure timely, accurate processing of vendor invoices and adherence to university policies.

The position focuses on capital improvements and project invoicing, vendor statement reconciliation, and year-end support.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and one year of accounting experience, or equivalent combination.
• 5–7 years of Disbursements, Accounts Payable or general ledger experience.
• Experience with Banner Finance or similar ERP or Oracle application.
• Experience with Jaggaer or another E-procurement system.
• Experience in higher education or state agency disbursement processes.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate at all organizational levels.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Timely and accurate review and processing of vendor invoices that include Capital Improvements, Special Projects and Construction invoices and other vendors as assigned.
• Timely and accurate review and reconciliation of vendor statements and outstanding checks.
• Research and resolution of invoice discrepancies.
• Assisting the AP Manager with year-end and audit preparations.
• Running weekly invoice reports for the AP Specialist.
• Assisting AP Manager with Check Run Preparations.
• Managing and working the AP Inbox.
• Mentor a team of accounts payable specialists, providing guidance and support as needed.
• All onboarding training of new AP Specialist.
• Being the liaison between the AP Specialist and the AP Manager.
• Integrity of the University ledger as it applies to Disbursements transactions
• Compliance with University, State and Federal regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Proper application of specialized accounting knowledge,
• Collaborate with university employees at all levels as well as outside agencies and organizations (local, state and federal) ensuring smooth and efficient financial operations.

Skills

Accounts payable

Disbursements

General ledger

Attention to detail

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Banner Finance

Oracle

Jaggaer

Job description

Benefits of Working at UNCW

At the University of North Carolina Wilmington, we are driven by a clear purpose: to empower student success, advance innovation, and strengthen the communities we serve. Guided by our strategic vision and commitment to excellence, UNCW offers a dynamic and collaborative environment where employees can make meaningful contributions while growing their careers.
Located in coastal North Carolina, UNCW combines the energy of a thriving academic community with the natural beauty of nearby beaches and outdoor spaces. Here, professional opportunity is balanced with an exceptional quality of life—creating a workplace where you can thrive both personally and professionally.
As a member of the Seahawk community, you’ll benefit from a culture that values well-being, lifelong learning, and connection. UNCW offers a competitive and flexible benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and professional growth. From comprehensive health coverage and retirement options to generous paid leave, tuition opportunities within the UNC System, learning and development opportunities, and wellness programs, UNCW is committed to helping you thrive both at work and in your personal life.

Recruitment Range

Recruitment Range $51,845 - $57,300

Recruitment Range Details

The salary range advertised is the designated recruitment range for this classification. Final salary offers will be determined by the candidate’s education, relevant experience, internal equity alignment, and departmental budgetary parameters.

Vacancy Number

Vacancy Number S02905

Position Title

Position Title Accounting Tech/Specialist

Working Title

Working Title Lead Accounts Payable Specialist

Competency Level

Advanced

Home Department

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The Finance team within the Division of Business Affairs supports the University’s mission, strategic vision, goals, and objectives by providing key financial services efficiently and effectively. The Finance team provides financial services directly to students and the campus community.

Responsibilities

The Accounts Payable (AP) Specialist position is responsible for:

• Timely and accurate review and processing of vendor invoices that include Capital Improvements, Special Projects and Construction invoices and other vendors as assigned.
• Timely and accurate review and reconciliation of vendor statements and outstanding checks.
• Research and resolution of invoice discrepancies.
• Assisting the AP Manager with year-end and audit preparations.
• Running weekly invoice reports for the AP Specialist.
• Assisting AP Manager with Check Run Preparations.
• Managing and working the AP Inbox.
• Mentor a team of accounts payable specialists, providing guidance and support as needed.
• All onboarding training of new AP Specialist.
• Being the liaison between the AP Specialist and the AP Manager.
• Integrity of the University ledger as it applies to Disbursements transactions
• Compliance with University, State and Federal regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Proper application of specialized accounting knowledge,
• Collaborate with university employees at all levels as well as outside agencies and organizations (local, state and federal) ensuring smooth and efficient financial operations.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

High school diploma or equivalency and one year of experience in account work; or equivalent combination of training and experience.

Preferred education, professional skills and experience

• 5-7 years of Disbursements, Accounts Payable or general ledger experience.
• Strong knowledge of business, financial and general administrative processes in a business setting.
• Experience with Banner Finance or similar ERP or Oracle application.
• Experience with Jaggaer or another E-procurement system.
• Experience in higher education or state agency disbursement processes.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate at all organizational levels.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite of products.

Required Certifications or licensure

N/A

FTE

FTE 1.0 FTE (40 hours per week)

Months Per Year

12 Months

Work Days

Monday - Friday

Type of Position

Permanent

Position Number

57

Job Posting Date

08/21/2026

Posting Close Date

08/31/2026

EEO Statement

UNCW does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of his or her race, sex (such as gender, gender identity, marital status, childbirth, and pregnancy), age, color, national origin (including ethnicity), religion, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, veteran status, military service member status, genetic information, or relationship to other university constituents – except where sex, age, or ability represent bona fide educational or occupational qualifications or where marital status is a statutorily established eligibility criterion for State funded employee benefit programs.

Eligibility for Employment

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. UNC Wilmington participates in E‑Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.