Accounts Payable Specialist

UpNorth Distribution is a leading cannabis brand and distributor based on California’s Redwood Coast, proudly delivering heritage Humboldt County strains to customers across California, Illinois, and Arizona. We are seeking a detail-oriented and dependable Accounts Payable (AP) Specialist to join our Finance team. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical skills, exceptional attention to detail, strong business ethics and a commitment to meeting deadlines.

Job Overview
The AP Specialist role supports daily accounting operations by ensuring timely and accurate invoice processing, vendor payments, reconciliations, month-end close, and compliance reporting while maintaining strict accuracy and adherence to established procedures.

You’ll collaborate cross-functionally to maintain strong vendor relationships and uphold financial accuracy in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

The Accounts Payable Specialist will report to the Head of Finance.

Minimum Requirements

You must:

• be 21 years of age or older
• pass a background check
• be able to speak, read, write and understand English at the level of a professional
• be able to legally work in the United States

Responsibilities

• Administer the end to end AP process, ensuring timely invoice processing, approvals, and payments.
• Assist with month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and adherence to deadlines.
• Process and review accounts payable transactions for accuracy and proper coding.
• Assist with budgeting and forecasting activities
• Ensure compliance with federal, state (California), and local tax laws.
• Support internal and external audits by preparing schedules and assisting with auditor requests.
• Participate in system upgrades or implementation projects related to accounting software or financial systems.
• Process vendor payments (checks, ACH, wire transfers, credit card payments) and track petty cash transactions.
• Serve as a liaison between vendors, procurement teams, and internal departments.
• Fast-paced, collaborative team environment with regular interdepartmental interaction.
• Occasional extended hours may be required during peak financial reporting periods.
• Other job related duties as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 2+ years of accounting experience, preferably in a California-based organization.
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., NetSuite, QuickBooks, SAP, Salesforce, or similar ERP systems).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUP, formulas).
• Exceptional accuracy, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Must be able to focus for extended periods and meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

Preferred

The following skills and/or knowledge are preferred and will help the candidate in their work, but are not required.

• Knowledge of the cannabis industry

Physical Demands

This is a sedentary position. To perform the required tasks of this position, an Accounts Payable Specialist needs to have and/or be able to:

• sit for prolonged periods for computer use.
• Walk, stand, and lift and/or carry office materials or file boxes (up to 20 lbs) with proper lifting techniques occasionally ascending or descending stairs.
• Communicate with the supervisor, other departments and clients
• Comply with all safety standards and procedures

Join us as an Accounts Payable Specialist and become an integral part of a vibrant team that values quality and collaboration. We look forward to welcoming passionate an individual who is dedicated to our mission of providing premium boutique cannabis brands to consumers.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $23.00 - $26.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Eureka, CA 95501 (Required)

Work Location: In person