Accounts Payable Specialist - Quick Service Restaurant Group

Position Summary

The Accounts Payable Specialist manages the full-cycle AP process for a high-volume, multi-unit quick service restaurant group. This role requires speed, accuracy, and strong analytical skills to support rapid purchasing cycles, frequent deliveries, and tight cost controls. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with AP automation tools (OCR/AI) and a strong understanding of restaurant operations, utilities, and compliance requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Process high-volume invoices across food, beverage, packaging, utilities, property taxes, and operational services for multiple locations
• Leverage OCR/AI-based AP tools to capture, code, and route invoices efficiently while minimizing manual entry
• Review and resolve OCR/AI exceptions; partner with vendors and operations teams to correct discrepancies
• Manage utilities billing: track usage, validate charges, identify anomalies, and ensure timely payments
• Prepare and analyze variance reports
• Process and track property tax payments, ensuring accuracy and timely submission by location
• Maintain and monitor a compliance calendar for permits, licenses, and regulatory deadlines (health, fire, occupancy, etc.)
• Ensure accurate GL coding across COGS, packaging, utilities, property taxes, and operating expenses
• Reconcile vendor statements and investigate missing or disputed invoices
• Execute weekly payment runs (ACH, checks, credit cards)
• Support month-end close, including accruals for recurring expenses and cost categories
• Maintain organized digital records for audits, compliance, and reporting
• Support cost control and inventory processes through accurate invoice coding and reporting

Qualifications

• 2–4 years of accounts payable experience, preferably in QSR or multi-unit restaurant environments
• Experience with AP automation tools (e.g., Restaurant365, Plate IQ, Tipalti, Ramp, Amazon or similar)
• Strong ability to troubleshoot OCR/AI invoice processing issues
• Experience managing utilities billing and identifying cost variances
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook), with strong Excel skills for data analysis
• Accurate typing skills and proficiency with 10-key data entry (by touch preferred)
• High attention to detail, organization, and ability to meet tight deadlines
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate cross-functionally

Preferred Skills

• Experience with advanced AP automation workflows (machine learning coding, automated approvals)