Your job is similar to that of an accounting clerk but more specialized. As a result, your salary may be slightly higher. The skills, training, and experience you gain as an accounts payable clerk can also open the door to a bright future in other accounting jobs.
As an accounts payable clerk, you typically work in an office setting. You may work either full-time or part-time, depending on the needs of your employer.
You will likely work closely with other accounting professionals in your department, and may provide support or back up for accounts receivable clerks, among other accounting professionals. If you work for a smaller company, you may take on a dual role, performing both accounts payable and accounts receivable duties.
An average accounts payable clerk job will net you a salary between $34,000 and $57,000 in most Canadian markets. If you're just starting out your career as an accounts payable clerk, you can expect to make a salary in the mid to high $30,000 range, depending on your skills and qualifications. As with many accounting clerk roles, the opportunities to advance your career are plentiful as you gain experience.
Accounts payable salaries are extremely consistent across Canada, indicating a strong demand for accounting services across the county. No matter where you choose to reside in the country, you should be able to find a variety of accounts payable jobs that match your skills and experience level.
As an accounts payable clerk, the majority of your responsibilities will revolve around paying and resolving incoming bills and invoices charged to your company. Some of the tasks you may encounter will include:
The vast majority of businesses in Canada have some financial component, ensuring that accounting jobs are in demand across a wide array of industries and fields. You’re usually employed by a mid to large sized company, where it becomes necessary for accounting clerks to specialize in order to increase efficiency.
The largest employers in the financial industry are banks, however, insurance companies, consulting companies and accounting companies are also employers with large accounting teams.
Accounts payable clerk jobs require a strong aptitude for math and knowledge of accounting software. Other skills that employers look for in accounts payable clerks include:
For the most part, accounts payable clerks are considered entry-level. If you're just starting out in your accounting career, an accounts payable clerk job is an ideal way to get your foot in the door, so you can work your way up the chain to more advanced accounting roles.
At minimum, you'll need a high school diploma, though some employers may look for post-secondary education in accounting, finance or business. Having a higher level of education can only improve your employment prospects and earning potential in this field.
Some accounts payable clerk jobs will also provide on the job training, or provide support to help you continue your education. Take advantage of these opportunities to advance your career.
As an accounts payable clerk, there is plenty of room for you to advance your career as you gain experience. If you choose to stay within the accounts payable department, you can move into supervisory and management roles. You can also navigate into other similar roles such as accounts receivable or accounting clerk.
Many accounts payable clerks opt to continue their education and become certified accountants to gain access to new job opportunities with higher pay and other benefits.