Senior Tax Associate
About Our Firm
Our clients established Manhattan-based CPA firm provides premier tax planning and compliance services to high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and international clients. With a prestigious reputation in New York's financial community, They deliver sophisticated tax solutions that address the complex needs of affluent clients with multi-jurisdictional assets and business interests. Their boutique approach combines the personalized attention of a specialized practice with the technical capabilities of a larger firm. They are currently seeking an experienced Senior Tax Associate to join their growing team in the Midtown Manhattan office.
Position Overview
As a Senior Tax Associate, you will play a critical role in providing comprehensive tax services to our high-net-worth individual clients with domestic and international tax considerations. This position requires advanced technical knowledge of individual taxation, international reporting requirements, and experience working with complex investment structures. The ideal candidate will combine technical expertise with excellent client communication skills and attention to detail.
Key Responsibilities
Tax Compliance & Planning
- Prepare and review complex individual tax returns (Form 1040) for high-net-worth clients with investment portfolios, business interests, trusts, and international assets
- Handle international information reporting including FBARs, Forms 8938, 5471, 8621, 8865, 3520, and other foreign asset reporting requirements
- Prepare gift tax returns (Form 709) and support estate tax filings as needed
- Analyze foreign tax credit positions and optimize utilization strategies
- Identify tax planning opportunities and prepare tax projections for clients
- Research and resolve complex tax issues related to international investments, foreign trust structures, and cross-border transactions
- Monitor tax law changes affecting high-net-worth clients and international reporting obligations
- Support wealth transfer and philanthropic planning initiatives
Client & Team Engagement
- Serve as a day-to-day contact for assigned clients, responding to inquiries and providing updates
- Communicate effectively with clients regarding document requests, tax positions, and filing requirements
- Work directly with client financial advisors, investment managers, and family office personnel
- Supervise and mentor tax associates and seasonal staff
- Review work prepared by staff for accuracy, completeness, and technical correctness
- Train junior staff on high-net-worth and international tax concepts
Practice Development
- Document client-specific procedures and maintain comprehensive workpapers
- Contribute to the development of firm best practices for international tax compliance
- Support managers and partners in special projects and proposals
- Identify additional service opportunities for existing clients
- Stay current on U.S. and international tax developments affecting high-net-worth individuals
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
- 3-5 years of public accounting experience with significant focus on high-net-worth individual taxation
- Demonstrated experience with international tax compliance and reporting requirements
- Knowledge of trust and estate tax concepts
- Strong technical understanding of investment income taxation including capital gains, dividends, and interest
- Experience with tax software systems (GoSystem, UltraTax, CCH Axcess, or similar)
- Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail
- Strong written and verbal communication abilities
- Ability to manage multiple engagements simultaneously while meeting deadlines
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other relevant technology tools
Preferred
- CPA license or active CPA candidate
- Master's degree in Taxation or related field
- Experience with private equity, hedge fund, or investment partnership taxation
- Knowledge of specific country tax treaties and their application
- Experience with expatriate taxation
- Familiarity with PFIC rules and foreign trust reporting requirements
Work Environment
- Professional office setting in Manhattan
- Collaborative team environment with direct partner interaction
- Onsite work schedule
- Extended hours during tax season (January-April, September-October)
- Emphasis on professional development and technical growth
- Limited travel may be required for client meetings
Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Performance-based bonus program
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching
- Generous paid time off including additional time after busy season
- Clear advancement path to manager position
