Senior Accounts Payable Specialist

With over 20 years of scientific and engineering expertise, Brighton Science is the global expert in surface intelligence, bringing valuable insights to our customers who design and manufacture products requiring cleaning, bonding, painting, or the coating of materials.

We live at the interface of where disparate materials come together and where surface conditions are essential to manufacturing high quality products.

We do this by designing and manufacturing unique, next-generation, high-precision instruments that provide surface intelligence about materials that is not otherwise discernable to the naked eye. This instrumentation identifies deficiencies existing at the molecular level that cause bonding failures with adhesives, paints, and coatings.

Additionally, Brighton Science provides a broad range of materials science consulting services to help companies effectively use advanced materials, coatings, and adhesives to improve the quality and performance of their products.

We have a team-oriented environment; goal setting, task performance, and problem solving are almost always performed collaboratively. People who succeed at Brighton Science are people motivated to grow. We’re big enough to have great resources but small enough that individuals have a large impact; self-motivation is highly valued. We are flexible and actively promote continued education and professional development.

Position Summary

The Senior Accounts Payable (AP) Specialist is responsible for overseeing the full accounts payable cycle, ensuring accurate and timely processing of invoices and payments, and supporting strong internal controls. This role serves as a key resource within the AP function, handling complex transactions, resolving escalations, and providing guidance to junior team members.

Key Responsibilities

• Review, code, and process complex or high-volume vendor invoices with a high degree of accuracy
• Oversee invoice matching (2-way/3-way) and resolve discrepancies with vendors and internal teams
• Manage and execute payment runs (checks, ACH, wires) in accordance with company policies
• Monitor AP aging and proactively address outstanding or overdue items
• Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner
• Support month-end close activities, including accruals and AP reporting
• Assist with bank and cash account reconciliations related to disbursements
• Serve as escalation point for vendor inquiries and issue resolution
• Ensure compliance with internal controls, audit requirements, and company policies
• Support 1099 preparation and year-end reporting
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy
• Maintain accurate vendor records and documentation
  
  
  

Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 2+ years of accounts payable or general accounting experience
• Strong understanding of AP processes, internal controls, and accounting principles
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Sage, Oracle, NetSuite) and advanced Excel skills
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Excellent problem-solving and communication abilities
• Desire to work in a small company environment which requires wearing many hats
  
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with AP automation tools and workflow systems
• Knowledge of GAAP principles
  
  
  

Key Competencies

• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Accountability and ownership
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines
  
  
  

Work Environment

• Typically office-based or hybrid work environment
• May require extended hours during month-end or year-end close
  
  
  

Compensation And Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement plan (e.g., 401(k))
• Opportunities for professional development
  
  
  

This job description is intended to outline the general responsibilities and qualifications for the role. Duties may be adjusted based on organizational needs.