Staff Accountant
Job Title: Staff Accountant – Tax
Department: Tax
Reports To: Supervisor, Manager and/or Partner
FLSA Status: Exempt
POSITION SUMMARY
The Staff Accountant - Tax is responsible for preparing tax returns and assists in tax projects for the firm's clients under the supervision of Senior Accountants, Supervisors, Managers and Shareholders. Key responsibilities include preparation of client tax returns and assisting in tax projects for the firm’s
clients.
TECHNICAL EXPECTATIONS
Gain knowledge of the tax return process
Prepare tax returns in accordance with firm standards and in compliance with applicable tax law
Assist in responding to tax notices as applicable
Prepare all workpapers in accordance with firm standards, to assist with the preparation and review of tax returns and other deliverables
Work with supervision to gather required documentation for assigned tax returns
Develop proficiency in preparing Forms 1040, 1120, 1120-S, 1065, 990 and possibly others
Assist with tax research as requested
Develop knowledge surrounding the rules, regulations and laws that govern tax at all levels
Prepare for the CPA examination or obtain CPE as required
CLIENT MANAGEMENT EXPECTATIONS
Achieve billable hour goal (ask for assistance when not on track)
Take direction effectively, ask questions effectively, and adequately retain information from one project to the next (listen attentively during tax meetings and apply knowledge gained)
Fully complete assigned tasks in an efficient manner and meet deadlines
Quickly and appropriately respond to unexpected events or changing schedules, demands, and priorities
Demonstrate a willingness to take on new projects.
COMMUNICATION EXPECTATIONS
Exhibit strong written and oral communication skills,
Timely communication with team and supporting staff without reminder
Communicate and ask questions to understand the work objective
Practice active listening skills and apply what is heard
Learn to ask and understand “why” not just “what” and “how” (First, try to come up with the answer, then ask the questions)
INTERPERSONAL (TEAM) EXPECTATIONS
Respect other’s opinions and ideas
Receptive to coaching, be open to constructive feedback
Work well individually and in a team dynamic
Adapt to meet and exceed client expectations both internally and externally
Begin to work through projects independently
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXPECTATIONS
Be aware of the importance of effective relationships between the client and the firm,
Understand the firm’s business development process and your role in the firm’s growth
Develop an understanding of the firm’s structure, the people, services provided, and the firm’s clients
Understand the importance of community interaction and networking
LEADERSHIP EXPECTATIONS
Exemplify firm culture and professionalism
Build trust and credibility
Respect diversity in people around you
Display proactive behavior and show personal responsibility for your actions
Leverage personal strengths
Understand the importance of community interaction and networking,
Take ownership of career development, attend firm directed CPE and job training
OTHER QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting
Excellent analytical skills with an attention to detail
Integrity in all work product
Ability to maintain confidentiality of client information
Strong time management, critical thinking and communication skills