Accounts Payable Specialist Salary Guide
An Accounts Payable Specialist processes and records vendor invoices, reconciles accounts, ensures timely payments, maintains accurate ledger entries, and supports month-end close. They enforce invoice controls, handle vendor inquiries, and work with purchasing and receiving teams to resolve discrepancies.
What is the average Accounts Payable Specialist salary?
Entry Level
$35,000 - $45,000
Mid Level
$45,000 - $60,000
Senior Level
$60,000 - $80,000
How does Accounts Payable Specialist salary grow with experience?
Accounts Payable Specialist salary by location
What factors affect a Accounts Payable Specialist's salary?
- Geographic cost of living and local market demand
- Technical skills: ERP systems (NetSuite, SAP, Oracle) and automation tools
- Company size and industry (finance/tech vs. nonprofit/small business)
- Scope of responsibility (AP only vs. AP + AR, payroll, or supervisory duties)
- Certifications and education (AIPB, CPB, accounting coursework)
Frequently Asked Questions About Accounts Payable Specialist Salaries
What is the average salary for an Accounts Payable Specialist?
Average salaries vary by level: entry $35K–$45K, mid $45K–$60K, senior $60K–$80K. Location, company size and system skills can push pay higher or lower.
How much does location affect Accounts Payable Specialist pay?
Location can change pay substantially—large metro tech hubs and high-cost areas often pay 10–30% above national averages, while smaller markets pay less.
Which skills increase an Accounts Payable Specialist's salary?
Advanced ERP experience (Oracle, SAP, NetSuite), automation tools, Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP), reconciliation expertise, and process improvement drive higher pay.
Can Accounts Payable Specialists advance to higher-paying roles?
Yes. Typical progressions include AP Supervisor, Accounting Manager, or Financial Analyst. Gaining leadership, process automation, and accounting certifications accelerates advancement.
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