Accounting Operations Specialist

Ketel Thorstenson, LLP (KT) is looking for an Accounting Operations Specialist who thrives on accuracy, organization, and continuous improvement. This position supports key financial processes including payroll, accounts payable, and monthly close while offering the opportunity to expand your skillset across multiple areas of accounting operations.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Payroll Processing:

• Process bi-weekly payroll accurately and on schedule, including review of time entries, deductions, and payroll changes
• Coordinate with HR and management on new hires, terminations, pay changes, and benefit deductions
• Prepare payroll reports and assist with payroll-related reconciliations
• Ensure compliance with payroll policies, procedures, and applicable regulations

Accounts Payable:

• Manage the full accounts payable lifecycle, including invoice intake, coding, approvals, and payment processing
• Maintain vendor records and resolve invoice discrepancies
• Monitor payment schedules to ensure timely and accurate disbursements
• Assist with AP reconciliations and support month-end close activities

Cash Receipts & Deposits:

• Process and record daily client payments and deposits
• Ensure timely and accurate posting to accounts receivable
• Investigate and resolve unidentified or misapplied payments

Billing & Accounts Receivable Support:

• Serve as the primary contact for client billing and AR questions via phone and email
• Research and resolve billing discrepancies in a professional and timely manner
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure accurate client invoicing
• Assist with collections support as needed, following firm policies

Backup Responsibilities:

• Provide backup support for billing operations, including invoice generation and review
• Serve as backup for month-end and period-end close tasks, as assigned
• Cross-train on key functions to ensure continuity of operations 

Required Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance or related field preferred, equivalent experience considered
• Minimum 2 years of experience in payroll, accounting operations, or a related field

Preferred Qualifications:

• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Highly responsible & reliable
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work cohesively as part of a team
• Detail-oriented, deadline-driven and comfortable working with both internal and external teams

Additional Information

Work Schedule & Location:

• Full-time position
• Standard schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday - Friday (non-peak season)
• Increased hours may be required during peak tax season
• Based in Rapid City, SD
• Travel may be required to other office locations in Spearfish, SD, Gillette, WY, and Casper, WY.

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.