Position Summary
To serve as a support resource within the City of Milbank’s Finance Department by assisting the Finance Officer in performing a variety of accounting and administrative duties. The Finance Assistant is responsible for processing accounts payable and receivable, assisting with payroll, maintaining accurate financial records, and posting transactions into the City of Milbank's financial systems. This position also assists with customer account setup, intake processing, and general clerical support. All work must be performed with a high level of accuracy, confidentiality, and attention to detail to ensure compliance with financial policies, regulatory requirements, and the City of Milbank’s operational standards.

Essential Functions

• Process accounts payable and accounts receivable transactions, including invoice coding, payment entry, and receipting of funds.
• Post and reconcile financial transactions to the general ledger and other financial systems.
• Assist with payroll processing, including data entry, timesheet review, and verification of payroll information.
• Perform intake and setup for customer utility accounts and other billing accounts; ensure accuracy of customer data.
• Maintain accurate vendor, customer, and financial records in accordance with recordkeeping guidelines and retention schedules.
• Assist in month-end and year-end closing activities by compiling data, preparing reports, and reconciling accounts as directed.
• Respond to routine questions from vendors, employees, and the public regarding payments, billing, and account status.
• Assist with bank deposits, petty cash handling, and other cash management activities.
• Support annual audit preparation by gathering documentation and responding to auditor requests.
• Generate financial reports and summaries as needed for departmental and City-wide use.
• Monitor inventory and office supply purchases and track departmental expenditures.
• Provide general administrative support to the Finance Department, including document scanning, filing, and data entry.
• Participate in cross-training and assist with special finance-related projects as assigned.

Competencies

• Accuracy and Attention to Detail
• Confidentiality and Professionalism
• Financial and Data Entry Proficiency
• Organization and Time Management
• Problem Solving
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic understanding of accounting principles and financial recordkeeping.
• Experience working with financial or accounting software; familiarity with municipal financial systems preferred.
• Ability to perform accurate data entry and manage numeric detail with minimal error.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office programs.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize multiple tasks under deadlines.
• Ability to handle confidential financial information in accordance with City policy.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills with the ability to respond effectively to vendors and the public.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Work Environment
Work is typically performed in a standard office setting. May occasionally interact with other departments or members of the public at the front counter or by phone.

Physical Demands
The position requires extended periods of sitting, computer use, and verbal communication. Occasional lifting of up to 25 lbs. may be required for filing or event setup.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a part-time, hourly position scheduled for approximately 20 hours per week. While typical business hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., there is flexibility in setting a schedule that meets both the needs of the City and the employee.

Travel
Minimal travel is required, limited to training sessions or interdepartmental meetings.

Required Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• At least one year of bookkeeping, accounting, or finance-related administrative experience; municipal or public sector experience preferred.
• Valid driver’s license required.

The City of Milbank is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. In accordance with South Dakota Codified Law, qualified veterans may be entitled to preference in employment.