Accounts Payable Specialist (Southern California)

Best Best & Krieger LLP is a nationally recognized law firm focused on delivering effective and client-service oriented solutions to complex legal issues facing public agencies, businesses and individuals across the U.S. BBK is proud to trace the firm's success back to the groundwork of professionalism and community service laid by its founders 135 years ago. Today, with nearly 250 attorneys in offices throughout California and in Oregon and Washington, D.C., we efficiently and meaningfully assist our clients with complex, multi-disciplinary issues and provide creative solutions.

At BBK, we place a high degree of value in creating and nurturing a work environment that attracts the best talent and reflects our commitment to culture, community and equal opportunity. We are proud of our workplace culture, where we respect and value our colleagues for their unique perspectives and experiences.

The Accounts Payable Specialist is responsible for managing all tasks related to calculating, posting, processing, and verifying financial data and client and firm costs. This role involves maintaining support for business transactions used in accounts payable records and ensuring timely payment of firm obligations. The specialist will coordinate accounts payable activities, process invoices, and maintain accurate records. Candidates must reside in the Inland Empire, Riverside, Ontario or Orange County areas. This is due to the expectation that the selected candidate will need to attend onsite training initially, with the role transitioning to a hybrid schedule. Once in hybrid status, the candidate will be required to work onsite one day per week (Wednesday) at our Riverside office, alongside the rest of the accounting team.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITES:

• Communicate with new vendors and vendors transitioning to the Emburse (formerly Chrome River) invoice portal.
• Set up new vendors/payees and obtain necessary documentation for ACH setup.
• Collaborate with legal staff to obtain missing information for cost records related to vendor invoicing.
• Scan invoices requiring approvals.
• Code invoices to appropriate GL accounts or client matter numbers for posting in Emburse, liaison between BBK LLP and vendors. Export data to 3E for posting.
• Respond to vendor-related inquiries, especially those involving billing discrepancies.
• Backup to on-demand checks (quick checks) as needed.
• Collect and audit invoice entries to ensure policy adherence, accuracy, and appropriateness prior to payment.
• Ensure timely and efficient processing of payments for invoices.
• Maintain and file documentation consistently for client backup or research purposes.
• Manage document scans for client and firm activities – provide clear and appropriate backup to client and firm inquiries.
• Operate in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment.
• Work cross-functionally with departments to resolve discrepancies and ensure compliance with financial policies.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Effective interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to exercise appropriate judgment regarding sensitive confidential matters.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Working knowledge of iManage and Microsoft Office Applications.

JOB COMPETENCIES:

• Strong work ethic, reliability, methodical approach, efficiency, proactivity, and conscientiousness.
• Ability to work well independently and as a team member.
• Adaptability to changing environments.
• Attention to detail in entry, analysis, research, problem-solving, and work product.
• Ability to interact and work harmoniously and effectively with others at all levels inside and outside the firm.
• Effective, clear, and concise communication, both written and verbal.
• Exercise overall judgment and confidentiality, seeking guidance when appropriate.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize, multi-task, and manage time efficiently.
• Demonstrable experience with financial databases and applications, including intermediate to advanced Excel skills.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• AP experience required.
• Working knowledge of Elite 3E or equivalent legal software experience a plus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• This is a hybrid position with a mix of in person and remote requirements.
• This position may require limited overtime and evening or weekend work.

The reasonably expected pay scale for this position with 2 or more years of experience is $60,000 - $65,000 annually, non-exempt.  The actual salary within that range will depend on the selected candidate’s location and experience.  We encourage all interested candidates to apply.

Best Best & Krieger is an equal opportunity employer.