2

Entry Level Bookkeeper Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Bookkeeper information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$12

$22

$32

How much do entry level bookkeeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level bookkeeper in Columbia, SC is $22.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $25.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level bookkeeper?

Entry level bookkeepers are professionals who handle basic financial record-keeping tasks for businesses or organizations. Their responsibilities typically include recording transactions, reconciling bank statements, processing invoices, and assisting with payroll under the supervision of more experienced accountants or bookkeepers. This role is ideal for individuals who are detail-oriented, organized, and looking to start a career in accounting or finance. Entry level bookkeepers often use accounting software and may work in various industries, providing foundational support for the financial operations of a company.

What does an entry level bookkeeper do?

As an entry-level bookkeeper, you generate financial reports from financial transactions. To perform your duties, you use either software or accounting journals that allow you to keep track of documents, such as cash receipts, customer invoices, and supplier bills. You also ensure that accounts are accurate by reconciling them. Other responsibilities include confirming accurate finance tracking, collecting sales tax according to the law, performing an audit to verify that the company’s finances are exact, handling credit and debit actions, performing data entry, making bank deposits, maintaining a petty cash fund, and ensuring that you pay bills on time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level bookkeeper?

To thrive as an Entry Level Bookkeeper, you need a solid understanding of basic accounting principles, attention to detail, and proficiency with numbers, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in accounting. Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks or Xero, as well as spreadsheet tools such as Microsoft Excel, is typically required. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication make someone stand out in this position. These capabilities are vital to ensure accurate financial records, facilitate smooth business operations, and prevent costly errors.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level bookkeepers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level bookkeepers often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of transactions, staying organized with multiple accounts, and learning new accounting software. To address these, it's important to develop strong attention to detail, prioritize time management, and seek guidance from more experienced team members. Most organizations provide training and mentorship to help new bookkeepers become familiar with company-specific processes and tools, making it easier to overcome initial hurdles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Bookkeeper vs Accounting Clerk?

AspectEntry Level BookkeeperAccounting Clerk
CredentialsHigh school diploma; some may have basic bookkeeping certificationsHigh school diploma; basic accounting or clerical training
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, handling financial records and transactionsOffice environment, performing data entry and administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across small to medium businesses, accounting firmsCommon in various industries, including retail, healthcare, and government

While both roles involve clerical and financial tasks, an Entry Level Bookkeeper primarily manages financial records, reconciliations, and bookkeeping software, whereas an Accounting Clerk focuses more on data entry, billing, and administrative support. The roles often overlap, but the Bookkeeper has a stronger emphasis on financial accuracy and record-keeping.

How to get hired as an entry level bookkeeper with no experience?

Entry level bookkeepers can improve their chances by gaining basic accounting knowledge through online courses or certifications like QuickBooks. Highlight transferable skills such as attention to detail and organization on your resume, and consider internships or volunteer work to build practical experience. Demonstrating a willingness to learn and familiarity with accounting software can also help secure an entry-level position.

What are the most commonly searched types of Bookkeeper jobs in Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Bookkeeper jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Bookkeeper jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Entry Level Bookkeeper jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Bookkeeper jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Bookkeeper jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Entry Level Bookkeeper jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Entry Level Bookkeeper job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Bookkeeper job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,787 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Fiscal Technician II-61060994

State of South Carolina

Columbia, SC • On-site

$37K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


State Of South Carolina rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Responsibilities This posting is for internal candidates. Fiscal Technician II The Department of Administration's Division of State Agencies Support Services is seeking a Fiscal Technician II to join the team. This position works within the State Surplus Property Program that promotes and facilitates the sustainable reuse of personal surplus property to state and local governments, qualifying non-profit entities and the public.

In this role you will administer and oversee the auction and titling section of Surplus Property. You will process, record and reconcile payments for Surplus Property recyclable metals program and maintain the excel recycling spreadsheet. This position is onsite in West Columbia, SC.

Responsibilities of the Fiscal Technician II: Request vehicle titles from State Fleet, process and distribute completed titles to customers following vehicle sales and conduct monthly audits to ensure title records are accurate and complete. Prepare and email accurate invoices to customers following the close of online auctions and verification of winning bids. Process, record, and reconcile payments for the Surplus Property recyclable metals program and maintain accurate recycling records and tracking spreadsheets.

Provide backup cashier support for Surplus Property, including customer service, answering calls, and processing online payments. Perform secondary verification of cashier transactions to ensure accuracy and accountability. Prepare correspondence, maintain files, and perform other related administrative duties as assigned.

Cross-train in at least two additional Surplus Property functional areas to provide operational support as needed. Minimum and Additional Requirements A high school diploma and entry-level experience in accounting or bookkeeping. A bachelor's degree with multiple accounting courses may be substituted for required work experience.

Additional Requirements: Knowledge of accounting/ bookkeeping principles and practices. Good written and verbal communication skills. Administrative experience with a PC and experience with Microsoft excel and word software.

Ability to perform mathematical concepts. Ability to communicate effectively and work well with others. must possess a valid South Carolina Class D driver's license.

Applicants indicating college credit or degree(s) on the application may bring a copy of college transcript to the interview. A copy of the transcript may also be uploaded as an attachment to the application, if required by the hiring department or if desired by the applicant. Please note that some areas of the Department may require an official, certified copy of the transcript prior to hiring or within a specific timeframe required by that area, after hiring.

Failure to produce an official, certified transcript may result in not being hired or termination. Additional Comments The Department of Administration is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. Supplemental questions are considered part of your official application.

Any misrepresentation will result in your disqualification from employment. Please complete the state application to include all current and previous work history and education. A resume will not be accepted nor reviewed to determine if an applicant has met the qualifications for the position.

The South Carolina Department of Administration offers an exceptional benefits package for full time (FTE) employees: Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Click here for additional information. 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year 15 days sick leave per year 13 paid holidays Paid Parental Leave S.C

Deferred Compensation Program available (S.C. Deferred Compensation) Retirement benefit choices * State Retirement Plan (SCRS) State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP) *Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay.


What State Of South Carolina employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


State of South Carolina logo

About State of South Carolina

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of South Carolina is not a typical corporation, but the governing body of the US state of South Carolina, located in the capital city of Columbia. Its industry focuses on public administration, providing key essential services to ensure the efficient functioning of the state. These services range from public safety and environment protection to education, healthcare, and economic development. The state was founded in 1788, grounded in democratic principles meant to support the overall well-being of its citizenry. Its core values revolve around service, integrity, accountability, and transparency. The mission of the State of South Carolina is to improve the quality of life for all its people, with a focus on education advancement, economic growth, and improved healthcare.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, SC, US

Social media