ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT II

Thurston County Government; Olympia (WA); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government agency in Olympia is looking for an Accounting Assistant II to support financial operations. Responsibilities include maintaining records, preparing financial reports, and assisting with accounting functions. Candidates should have a strong accounting background, with a focus on customer service skills. This position offers a salary between $4,235 and $5,633 monthly with a range of benefits.

Benefits

Comprehensive health care

Flexible work schedules

Paid leave and holidays

Qualifications

• Implement accounting records and perform reconciliations.
• Prepare financial reports ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Train County staff and address their queries.

Responsibilities

• Maintain departmental accounting records and assist with bookkeeping.
• Reconcile accounts and resolve discrepancies.
• Process daily deposits and handle reimbursements.

Skills

Knowledge of double-entry bookkeeping

Strong communication skills

Ability to prioritize accounting projects

Excellent customer service skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED with college-level accounting courses

Two years of general accounting experience

Tools

Personal computer

Job description

Overview

Accounting Assistant II role at Thurston County Public Health and Social Services (PHSS) in the Fiscal Division. The salary range is $4,235 - $5,633 monthly. The position supports departmental and County-wide financial operations, including maintaining accounting records, reconciling accounts, preparing financial reports, and testing accounting programs.

Responsibilities

• Assume responsibility for departmental accounting records or assist with a County-wide bookkeeping function such as payroll, accounts payable, and accounts receivable
• Record, balance, and classify income and expenditures to proper accounts in accordance with BARS and County procedure
• Prepare and review entries and documents for accuracy and proper coding in line with federal and state regulations
• Reconcile accounts and address irregularities
• Process daily deposits, including in-person deposits at the County’s financial institution
• Train or consult with other County staff and respond to questions
• Process employee reimbursements and credit card expenses
• Assist in managing department credit cards checked out by employees
• Develop and prepare departmental financial reports and budgets
• Assist with or prepare County financial reports
• Perform special projects requiring research, interpretation, or auditing of statistical data
• Review accounts, financial summaries, and statements to recommend improvements to the accounting system or procedures
• Assist in testing computer accounting programs used in the work unit
• Provide clerical assistance as needed
• May audit subsidiary journals, registers, and other original entries
• Perform other work as required, including 24/7 response during public health emergency situations and disease outbreak investigations

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED and one year of college-level accounting courses. Additional experience may substitute for college-level courses on a year-for-year basis.
• Two years of general accounting experience.
• Ability to utilize a personal computer and applicable software to perform essential functions.

Desired Skills

• Knowledge of double-entry bookkeeping and governmental accounting principles
• Knowledge of the BARS governmental accounting system
• Ability to perform arithmetic calculations rapidly and accurately
• Ability to organize and prioritize accounting projects with minimal supervision
• Ability to collaborate effectively with team members and County staff
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
• Excellent customer service skills

Working Conditions

• Work environment: Quiet office setting in Olympia, Washington
• Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm, in-person
• Travel: Occasional travel for meetings or trainings
• Customer interactions: Daily interactions with Thurston County staff and the public

Benefits

• Work-Life Balance with public service duties
• Retirement plan, pre-tax savings accounts, comprehensive health care and dental/vision care
• Paid leave and holidays
• County-paid training and opportunities for professional development
• Flexible work schedules and potential remote options
• Voluntary deferred compensation plans
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility

Why you’ll love it here: Thurston County is located between Seattle and Portland in Western Washington’s South Puget Sound Region, offering outdoor and cultural amenities. Learn more at Experienceolympia.com.

How to apply

Questions about this recruitment? Please contact the hiring team at [e-mail] or [phone].

Equal Opportunity Employer Thurston County is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal opportunity to all applicants regardless of race, sex, color, creed or religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation or gender identity, disability, or veteran status. If you require accommodation during the application process, contact Thurston County Human Resources at [phone].