Accounts Payable Specialist

Job Title: Accounts Payable Specialist Reports To: Accounting Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Status: Full-Time Department: Accounting and Finance Location: Akwesasne, NY Company OverviewTarbell Management Group (TMG) is a proud Mohawk family-owned enterprise dedicated to its mission of "empowering economic sovereignty for Tribal Nations and trusted partners". TMG has grown from a small local business into a diversified organization serving Indian Country and beyond, with operations spanning petroleum wholesale and transportation, convenience and restaurant services, tobacco manufacturing, brand management and national distribution and shared services. Our Core Values TMG offers a competitive total rewards package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) with company match, paid time off, Holidays, telemedicine access, optional Aflac coverage, and other employee benefits that support work-life balance and well-being. JOB SUMMARY: The Accounts Payable (AP) Specialist plays a key role in supporting TMG's multi-entity financial operations by processing vendor invoices, ensuring accurate disbursements, and maintaining clean vendor records. This position works collaboratively with Operations, Purchasing, and other internal teams to resolve discrepancies and uphold strong internal controls. A major focus of the AP Associate role is supporting TMG's shift from manual, paper-based processes to fully digital, automated workflows. The individual in this role will support ongoing process improvements, system enhancements, and the use of AIenabled tools to help improve the efficiency and scalability of the AP function. This position upholds TMG Mission and Core Values. This position requires exceptional communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills. Primary Responsibilities (includes but is not limited to): Accounts Payable Processing & Reporting Validate and process vendor invoices using required three-way match (PO, receiving, invoice). Prepare and initiate vendor payments (check, ACH, wire) in alignment with approval of matrices and internal controls. Maintain accurate vendor records, including W9s and compliance documentation, ensuring full audit readiness. Provide documentation and support for month-end close activities as requested by Accounting Administer the employee expense reimbursement process through Concur, ensuring policy compliance and accurate digital documentation. Internal Controls & Compliance Follow established internal controls and approval process in relations to invoice approval, and disbursement of workflows. Support internal and external audit requests with complete, electronic documentation. Identify gaps or inconsistencies in AP processes and escalate risks as needed. Operational Partnership & Service Excellence Collaborate with Operations, Purchasing, Retail, and other departments to resolve invoice discrepancies, missing documentation, or coding issues. Provide timely vendor support and assist with improving cross department AP workflows. Process Optimization, Systems Improvement & Automation Contribute to AP modernization efforts by transitioning from paper-dependent processes to fully electronic, digitally archived workflows. Participate in ERP upgrades, AP automation initiatives, OCR/AI enabled invoice capture tools, and workflow routing enhancements. Identify opportunities to reduce manual work, eliminate bottlenecks, improve data accuracy, and streamline processes. Assist in documenting new AP procedures, SOPs, and digital workflow guidelines. Support testing and validation of new software releases or system integrations. Digital Transformation & AI Enabled Efficiency Recommend opportunities to leverage AI for exception handling, duplicate detection, variance alerts, and workflow optimization. Minimum Qualifications 1-3 years of accounts payable or transactional accounting experience High attention to detail with ability to manage high-volume, fast paced workflows Proficiency with accounting systems and Microsoft Office Ability to follow internal controls and maintain confidentiality Preferred Qualifications: Experience with ERP or AP automation tools (OCR, AI enabled solutions, workflow approvals) Experience transitioning from paper based to electronic systems Familiarity with purchasing workflows, invoice matching, or high-volume vendor environments Experience working within Native American territories or Tribal communities. Physical & Work Environment Requirements Primarily sedentary work performed in an office or hybrid environment, with extended periods of sitting and working at a computer Regular use of hands and fingers to operate a computer, keyboard, calculator, and other office equipment Occasional standing, walking, bending, or reaching in the office environment Visual acuity required to review financial data, reports, spreadsheets, and system dashboards with attention to detail and accuracy Ability to concentrate for extended periods while analyzing complex financial information, reviewing reconciliations, and overseeing reporting activities Capability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines during month end close, audits, and strategic initiatives end close, audits, and strategic initiatives