Accounting Clerk Job Description - Accounts Payable and Receivable

The Accounting Clerk job description sets out a role responsible for routine financial administration and transaction processing. Candidates with strong numeracy, attention to detail and prior experience in accounts support should apply.

Accounting Clerk Job Profile

The accounting clerk provides day-to-day financial administration, supporting the finance team by processing invoices, posting transactions and maintaining accurate ledgers. The role contributes to the integrity of financial records and helps ensure compliance with internal controls and statutory requirements.

This position suits organised individuals who can manage repetitive tasks consistently, meet regular deadlines and communicate effectively with suppliers, customers and internal stakeholders.

Accounting Clerk Job Description

Working within the finance function, the accounting clerk undertakes accounts payable and receivable activities, reconciliations and routine journal postings. The role involves regular data entry, document management and the preparation of basic financial schedules for review by senior colleagues. Accuracy, timeliness and adherence to established procedures are expected at all times.

The role operates in a structured environment with fixed reporting cycles and month-end deadlines. The accounting clerk is required to investigate and escalate discrepancies, assist with audit queries and contribute to process improvements that enhance efficiency and controls. Collaboration with other teams may be required to resolve account issues or to support financial reporting tasks.

Accounting Clerk: Duties and Responsibilities

• Process supplier invoices ensuring correct coding, approvals and timely payment processing.
• Reconcile supplier statements and investigate discrepancies with vendors.
• Prepare and issue customer invoices and follow up on overdue accounts.
• Post daily receipts and cash transactions to appropriate accounts.
• Prepare regular bank reconciliations and resolve variances.
• Maintain ageing reports for accounts payable and accounts receivable.
• Record routine journal entries and assist with month-end closing tasks.
• Monitor and reconcile petty cash or imprest accounts and maintain supporting records.
• Prepare or support submission of VAT and other statutory returns as required.
• Support payroll processing by providing validated timesheet and expense information when required.
• File and archive financial documentation in line with record retention policies.
• Assist with internal and external audit requests, providing supporting schedules and explanations.
• Review and process staff expense claims, credit notes and adjustments.
• Identify minor process improvements to increase accuracy and efficiency in routine tasks.

Accounting Clerk: Requirements and Qualifications

• AAT qualification or equivalent bookkeeping/accounting certification desirable.
• Minimum of one year experience in an accounting support or clerical finance role.
• Strong numeracy and a high level of attention to detail.
• Working knowledge of double entry bookkeeping and basic accounting principles.
• Understanding of VAT or sales tax requirements and statutory record keeping.
• Proven ability to prepare reconciliations and basic financial reports.
• Proficient in spreadsheets and common office software used for financial tasks.
• Good organisational and time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for liaising with stakeholders.
• High level of integrity and ability to handle confidential financial information.
• Able to work independently and as part of a small finance team.
• Accuracy in data entry and maintenance of financial records.