Accounts Payable Specialist - Temp to Hire

Description:
Job Description Summary:
In this role, you will support the Accounting Department by performing all duties related to Accounts Payable. You will also be responsible for reconciliations, assisting with audit preparation, and administrative tasks. This position works under the supervision of the Director of Accounting.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Enter approved and coded invoices on a timely basis into Workday
Print checks for signature
Research paid and unpaid invoices for properties and vendors
Perform special projects as assigned
Print and mail 1099’s and 1096's on an annual basis
Prepare intercompany payable/receivable invoices for common expenses
Good organizational and written communication skills
Computer knowledge in Excel, Word, and familiarity with Lawson and/or Workday, or other large ERP systems
Minimum Qualifications
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in accounting or equivalent experience - Strongly Preferred.
At least five to seven years of Accounts Payable (full-cycle) or general accounting experience required.
Must have excellent and effective communication skills to work with all levels of the University - Required.
Ability to work well both independently and with others and respond sensitively to clients, staff, and volunteers - Required.
Familiarity and high comfort level with web-based technology and proficiency in Microsoft Office software are required.
Comprehensive understanding of accounting procedures, experience, and demonstrated abilities for working in a fast-paced, multicultural setting. Strong organizational skills, accurate, and detail-oriented.
Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, and percentages.
Work Environment
Office Location: Oakland Campus – Hybrid
This is a hybrid position based in Oakland, CA], requiring a combination of regular in-office days and remote work, determined by operational needs, meetings, events, and team collaboration requirements.
Work is performed in both campus and remote settings, requiring the ability to effectively collaborate, communicate, and maintain productivity across multiple work environments and multidisciplinary teams.
Mental/Physical Requirements
The position will be performed in an office setting. The requirements described below are representative of those necessary to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to effectively receive and exchange information through verbal, written, and/or other forms of communication.
Ability to perform primarily sedentary work, including extended periods of desk and computer-based activity.
Ability to move throughout the work environment as needed to perform essential job responsibilities.
Ability to occasionally perform physical activities such as standing, walking, reaching, bending, stooping, or navigating stairs as required by the position.
This position will be performed in an office setting. The position will require the incumbent to sit and stand at a desk, communicate in person, video and by telephone, frequently operate standard office equipment, such as telephones and computers.
Employee Status:RegularExemption Status:United States of America (Non-Exempt)Time Type:Full timeJob Shift:Pay Range:
The anticipated hourly range for this non-exempt position is $39/hour – $41/hour. The actual salary offered will be determined based on job-related factors, including relevant experience, qualifications, skills, and geographic location, as applicable.
Organization:
At Samuel Merritt University (SMU), we are dedicated to fostering a supportive, inclusive community committed to advancing healthcare through exceptional education, compassionate care, and community service. Known for our leading-edge programs in health sciences, SMU equips students and faculty with the knowledge and skills to make impactful contributions to health and wellness.
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. SMU welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where anyone can thrive and reach their full potential.
Samuel Merritt University currently provides base salary ranges for all positions-on job advertisements-in the United States based on local requirements. Individual compensation will ultimately be determined based on a variety of relevant factors including but-not limited to qualifications, geographic location, and other relevant skills.
Benefits
Samuel Merritt University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Mental health and wellness resources
Education reimbursement
Employee discounts through Marketplace
Paid vacation, sick leave, and parental leave
Nine paid holidays, plus a paid holiday break between Christmas and New Year’s Day
Two floating holidays
One paid Volunteer Work Day
Five Education Leave Days
Important Notice: Beware of Fraudulent Job Offers
Samuel Merritt University has been made aware of individuals posing as SMU recruiters, particularly for remote positions. To help protect yourself, please keep the following in mind:
All legitimate job openings are posted on the SMU Careers page and trusted job boards.
We will never ask you to provide payment for equipment or submit sensitive personal information before completing the formal hiring process.
Official offers of employment are issued through Workday, not by text message or informal email.
Please remain cautious and protect your personal information throughout your job search.
Notice to Recruitment Agencies
Samuel Merritt University does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies. Please do not forward resumes to our job application email address, SMU employees, or any other university location. Samuel Merritt University is not responsible for fees associated with unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions.

Skills
Excel, Accounting, ERP