Client Accounting Associate (Payroll)

Responsibilities

• Process payroll for multiple clients, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
• Collect and verify employee timekeeping and payroll-related information
• Calculate wages, overtime, bonuses, and other earnings
• Ensure accurate payroll deductions for taxes, benefits, and other withholdings
• Prepare payroll reports, filings, and year-end documentation (e.g., W-2s, 1099s)
• Reconcile payroll accounts and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner
• Affirm clients with payroll compliance, including federal, state, and local regulations
• Communicate with clients to address payroll-related questions and provide support
• Identify and resolve payroll and accounting issues while maintaining high-quality standards

Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field, or equivalent experience
• Minimum 2 years experience processing payroll
• Working knowledge with payroll systems, accounting software, and Microsoft Office (particularly Excel)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with multiple clients or in a service-based environment
• Knowledge of payroll tax regulations and compliance requirements
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Able to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines

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.

About the Role

Ketel Thorstenson, LLP (KT) 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.