Accounts Payable Specalist

We are looking for an AP Specialist to join a team in El Monte, California in a contract-to-permanent opportunity. This role is suited for someone who can manage day-to-day accounting activities while supporting accurate reporting and financial controls. The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience across core accounting functions, strong Excel skills, and the ability to work effectively in a bilingual business environment.

Responsibilities:

• Handle daily accounting operations, including invoice processing, payment tracking, receivables follow-up, and maintenance of accurate financial records.

• Perform account, bank, and general ledger reconciliations to identify variances and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.

• Support month-end and year-end close activities by preparing entries, reviewing balances, and helping ensure complete financial reporting.

• Create monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports that reflect current business performance.

• Gather and organize documentation needed for tax filings and assist with the preparation of year-end reporting materials.

• Review financial data to spot trends, support decision-making, and provide practical insight to management.

• Contribute to budget planning by compiling financial information and assisting leadership with forecasting activities.

• Participate in internal audit efforts, evaluate accounting procedures, and recommend improvements that strengthen compliance and accuracy.

• Help maintain adherence to applicable state financial and tax requirements while staying informed on current accounting standards and best practices.

• Bilingual proficiency in Japanese with at least 1 year of accounting experience, or bilingual proficiency in another Asian language with 2–3 years of accounting experience.

• Strong working knowledge of Excel for reporting, reconciliation, and data review.

• Experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general bookkeeping processes.

• Hands-on exposure to full-cycle accounting, including reconciliations and month-end closing activities.

• Ability to prepare financial reports and interpret accounting data with accuracy and attention to detail.

• Familiarity with accounting software and ERP platforms, including systems such as MS Dynamics.

• Understanding of budgeting, auditing support, and financial compliance practices.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.