Since the opening of Brookfield Zoo in 1934, the Society has had an international reputation for taking a cutting-edge role in animal care and conservation of the natural world. The Society is an active partner in wildlife protection programs around the world, including the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, the world's longest-running study of bottlenose dolphins. We have pioneered the field of conservation psychology, the study of how people connect with animals and nature. We are able to reach so many audiences each year, including 2 million zoo guests engaged by unique exhibits and programs; some 250,000 schoolchildren, campers, and families who participate in award-winning science education programs; nearly 24,000 teachers who take part in our professional development workshops; and, diverse communities across Chicagoland. The Chicago Zoological Society's Brookfield Zoo is known throughout the world as a leader in animal welfare and conservation, this venerable institution also serves as a potent economic engine, top tourism attraction and award-winning educational institution.

As the AP Clerk/Administrative Coordinator, following the prescribed policies and procedures and utilizing the manual and computerized accounts payable systems, you will process the payables of the Society in a timely and accurate manner including, but not limited to: verifying receipt of product and/or services, comparing purchase order cost to invoices, verifying purchase authorizations and ledger coding, and entering invoices into the accounting system ensuring proper cut off. Making use of your prior accounts payable experience, you will approve invoices for payment, print and distribute accounts payable checks, maintain data records to document paid and pending obligations of the Society, and maintain records of and follow-up on unmatched invoices. You will maintain a procedure manual of accounts payable tasks and recommend changes to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the accounts payable function. Drawing upon your ability to prioritize, you will maintain and analyze various accounting records on a monthly basis, and produce other miscellaneous analysis and reports as needed. You will utilize your ability to juggle multiple projects and assignments while serving as a backup for Senior Accounts Payable Clerk and Payroll Associate during vacations and other absences. You will make use of your computer proficiency providing administrative support to the Senior Vice President, Finance and Administration and the Controller. Administrative support includes typing correspondence, preparing governmental agency reports and memos, establishing, coordinating, scheduling, and preparing necessary agenda and materials for Investment, Finance, and Audit Trustee Committee meeting; typing audit confirmations and representation letters; maintaining annual audit files and assist auditors as needed; assisting in processing departmental mail; and, performing "key operator" duties for accounting copier (help users resolve small copier problems and manage service repairs).

Position Requirements and Specifications
The requirements for this position include:

• Associates Degree in Accounting or Business or equivalent combination of related training and/or experience.
  
• Minimum of two years computerized accounts payable experience in a high-volume payables environment.
  
• Proficient computer skills in Microsoft Word required. Strong computer skills in Microsoft Excel required.
  
• Must be able to maintain confidentiality of privileged information.
  
• Strong figure aptitude and mathematical skills required.
  
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills required.
  
• Accurate data entry and typing skills required.
  
• Eye for detail, completeness, and accuracy necessary.
  
• Must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
  
• Must be able to prioritize effectively and juggle multiple projects and assignments.
  
• Must be able to understand and carry out oral and written instructions and request clarification when needed.
  
• Self-starter with the ability to use sound judgment.
  
• Professional appearance and warm, attentive demeanor.
  
• Experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
  
• Valid driver's license required. Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois license within 90 days of hire. Valid out-of-state license required for out-of-state residents.

The desirable/preferred qualifications include the following:

• Experience processing payables for the construction industry desired.
  
• Experience with Serenic Navigator or Microsoft Navision preferred
  
• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

Additional Information
The Chicago Zoological Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer - Minorities / Women / Veterans / Disabled.