Client Accounting Associate (Payroll & Accounts Payable)

Ketel Thorstenson, LLP (KT) is seeking a motivated Client Accounting Associate (Payroll & Accounts Payable) to join our Client Accounting Services team in any one of our Rapid City, SD, Spearfish, SD, Casper, WY, and Gillette, WY office locations.

In this role, you will support multiple client organizations by managing payroll and accounts payable processes, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely execution of key financial operations within a public accounting environment.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Payroll Processing

• Process payroll for multiple clients, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
• Collect and verify employee timekeeping and payroll-related information
• Calculate wages, deductions, and other earnings
• Prepare payroll reports, filings, and year-end documentation (W-2s, 1099s)
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations

Accounts Payable

• Process vendor invoices, including coding and documentation
• Manage accounts payable workflows across client systems and platforms
• Prepare vendor payments (ACH, check, wire) in accordance with approvals
• Monitor outstanding payables and due dates
• Assist with vendor setup, W-9 collection, and 1099 tracking

Client Support & General Accounting

• Communicate with clients to address payroll and AP-related questions
• Reconcile payroll and AP accounts and resolve discrepancies
• Maintain organized, accurate workpapers and documentation
• Collaborate with team members to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality work

Required Qualifications:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field, or equivalent experience 
• Minimum 2 years experience with payroll, accounts payable, or general accounting functions 
• Experience with accounting software and Microsoft Office, including Excel

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with multiple clients or in a service-based environment 
• Familiarity with payroll systems and AP platforms (e.g., Bill.com or similar tools) 
• Knowledge of payroll tax and compliance requirements 
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities

Additional Information

Work Schedule & Location:

• Full-time position
• Standard schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday
• Additional hours may be required during peak periods
• Based in any one of our Rapid City, SD, Spearfish, SD, Casper, WY, and Gillette, WY office locations.

Compensation & Benefits:
Salary depends on experience and expertise. Compensation includes a comprehensive benefits package.

Featured Benefits Include:

• Paid Time Off and Holiday
• Paid Parental Leave
• Flexible Work Schedules
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability Coverage
• 401(k) Retirement Plan and Financial Wellness Resources
• Professional Development and Training
• Certification Assistance
• Tuition  Reimbursement
• Paid Volunteer Time and Community Involvement Opportunities

Company Info

Ketel Thorstenson, LLP is a full-service accounting and consulting firm established in 1936. With offices across South Dakota and Wyoming, and a team with over 25 partners and 50+ CPAs, KT serves a diverse client base across a wide range of industries—from closely held businesses to complex organizations in agriculture, construction, hospitality, nonprofit, government, and beyond.

We’re more than a traditional accounting firm—we’re a team that values relationships, innovation, and impact. At KT, you’ll find a collaborative, growth-focused environment where your ideas are welcomed, your contributions matter, and your career can evolve alongside the clients and communities we serve.