Job Title: Tax Associate

Job Summary: As a Tax Associate, you will play a key role in providing tax advisory, compliance, and planning services to clients. Working within a tax department or under the supervision of senior tax professionals, you will assist in preparing tax returns, conducting tax research, analyzing tax implications, and advising clients on tax-related matters.

Responsibilities:

1. Tax Compliance: Assist in preparing federal, state, and local tax returns for individuals, businesses, trusts, and other entities. Review financial records, income statements, and other relevant documents to accurately calculate tax liabilities and ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations.

2. Tax Planning: Collaborate with senior tax professionals to develop tax planning strategies for clients to minimize tax liabilities, maximize tax benefits, and achieve strategic objectives. Analyze financial data, projections, and transactions to identify tax planning opportunities and risks.

3. Tax Research: Conduct tax research using online databases, tax code publications, and other resources to analyze complex tax issues and provide accurate and timely guidance to clients. Stay abreast of changes in tax laws, regulations, and rulings to ensure compliance and optimize tax planning strategies.

4. Client Advisory: Provide tax advisory services to clients on a wide range of tax matters, including income tax, estate tax, gift tax, corporate tax, partnership tax, and international tax issues. Communicate tax implications and recommendations to clients in a clear and understandable manner.

5. Tax Audits and Disputes: Assist in representing clients in tax audits, examinations, and disputes with taxing authorities. Prepare responses to audit inquiries, gather supporting documentation, and negotiate favorable resolutions on behalf of clients.

6. Tax Reporting and Filings: Prepare and file various tax-related forms, disclosures, and filings required by regulatory agencies, such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), state tax authorities, and local jurisdictions. Ensure timely and accurate compliance with reporting obligations.

7. Client Relationship Management: Build and maintain positive relationships with clients by providing exceptional service, addressing inquiries and concerns, and anticipating their needs. Identify opportunities to expand service offerings and generate new business through client referrals and cross-selling opportunities.

8. Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other members of the tax department, including partners, managers, and fellow associates, to deliver comprehensive tax solutions and meet client needs. Share knowledge, best practices, and resources to enhance team effectiveness and efficiency.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field required; Master's degree in Taxation or a related discipline preferred.
2. Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license or pursuing CPA certification preferred.
3. Previous experience in tax preparation, tax planning, or tax consulting preferred but not required for entry-level positions.
4. Strong understanding of tax laws, regulations, and principles, with the ability to apply technical knowledge to practical situations.
5. Proficiency in tax software and accounting software, such as Intuit ProConnect Tax, Thomson Reuters UltraTax, or CCH Axcess Tax.
6. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, with attention to detail.
7. Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally with clients and colleagues.
8. Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
9. Commitment to upholding ethical standards, maintaining client confidentiality, and delivering high-quality work.