August 07, 2025
Lake Forest College is seeking an Accounts Payable Specialist to support the financial operations of the institution by ensuring accurate and timely processing of invoices, reimbursements, and other payments. The role ensures compliance with institutional policies, regulatory standards, and sound accounting practices specific to the higher education environment.

Job Responsibilities

• Review, verify, and process invoices, purchase orders, and payment requests in a timely manner.
• Ensure transactions comply with institutional policies, grant/contract requirements, and IRS regulations.
• Coordinate with departments to resolve discrepancies, missing documentation, or incorrect charges.
• Prepare and process vendor payments via check, ACH, or wire transfer.
• Maintain vendor records, including W-9s and tax documentation.
• Respond to vendor and departmental inquiries regarding payment status.
• Process employee travel and expense reimbursements in compliance with institutional travel policies.
• Reconcile accounts payable transactions and assist with month-end closing activities.
• Assist in preparing reports for audits, grants, and internal financial reviews.
• Support year-end processes, including 1099 issuance and accruals.

• Maintain confidentiality and integrity in handling financial records.

  Required Qualifications

• Associate degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

• 2+ years of accounts payable experience, preferably in higher education or nonprofit sector.
• Familiarity with accounting systems and third-party payment processors.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Office applications.
• Ability to communicate effectively and courteously with internal departments and external vendors.

Pay Rate and Benefits
Pay Rate: $22-26 per hour
Benefits: www.lakeforest.edu/offices-and-departments/human-resources/employee-benefits
Application Process
Please submit a cover letter and resume to Doug MacKay at dmackay@lakeforest.edu.
If you are interested in learning more about employment at Lake Forest College, please visit Working at Lake Forest | Lake Forest College.

• Review, verify, and process invoices, purchase orders, and payment requests in a timely manner.
• Ensure transactions comply with institutional policies, grant/contract requirements, and IRS regulations.
• Coordinate with departments to resolve discrepancies, missing documentation, or incorrect charges.
• Prepare and process vendor payments via check, ACH, or wire transfer.
• Maintain vendor records, including W-9s and tax documentation.
• Respond to vendor and departmental inquiries regarding payment status.
• Process employee travel and expense reimbursements in compliance with institutional travel policies.
• Reconcile accounts payable transactions and assist with month-end closing activities.
• Assist in preparing reports for audits, grants, and internal financial reviews.
• Support year-end processes, including 1099 issuance and accruals.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity in handling financial records