Senior Tax Associate
About Our Firm
Our clients established CPA firm in Richmond, Virginia, provides comprehensive tax, accounting, and advisory services to a diverse client base throughout Central Virginia. With a strong reputation for delivering personalized solutions to businesses and individuals, they pride themselves on their collaborative culture and commitment to client success. Located in the heart of Richmond's business district, they offer a dynamic work environment that supports professional growth and excellence. They are currently seeking a talented Senior Tax Associate to join their growing tax practice.
Position Overview
The Senior Tax Associate will play a critical role in preparing and reviewing complex tax returns while supporting client relationships and mentoring junior staff. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to develop advanced technical skills, work with a diverse client portfolio, and advance your career in a supportive, professional environment. The ideal candidate will combine technical expertise with strong communication skills and a client-focused approach.
Key Responsibilities
Tax Compliance & Planning
- Prepare and review federal, state, and local tax returns for individuals, partnerships, corporations, and pass-through entities
- Conduct comprehensive tax research to address complex tax issues and identify planning opportunities
- Develop tax projections and estimates for clients
- Assist in preparing tax provision analyses and supporting documentation
- Identify and recommend tax strategies to optimize clients' tax positions
- Manage multiple tax engagements simultaneously while meeting critical deadlines
- Stay current with changing tax laws and regulations affecting our client base
Client Relationship Management
- Serve as a primary point of contact for assigned clients
- Communicate effectively with clients to gather required information
- Explain complex tax concepts and strategies to clients in clear, understandable terms
- Respond to client inquiries promptly and professionally
- Prepare client correspondence and tax planning memoranda
- Assist in developing and maintaining long-term client relationships
Team Leadership & Development
- Mentor and train junior tax associates and staff
- Review work of junior staff for accuracy and completeness
- Provide constructive feedback and support to team members
- Assist in staff training and development initiatives
- Collaborate with managers and partners on engagement approaches
- Contribute to the firm's knowledge-sharing culture
Practice Support
- Maintain accurate and organized client files
- Prepare engagement documentation and workpapers
- Track and manage engagement profitability
- Assist with quality control processes
- Contribute to process improvement initiatives
- Support firm administrative tasks as needed
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field
- 3-5 years of tax preparation experience in public accounting
- Strong technical knowledge of individual and business taxation
- Experience preparing tax returns for multiple entity types
- Proficiency with tax preparation software (UltraTax, CCH Axcess, or similar)
- Advanced Microsoft Excel and Office skills
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
- Detail-oriented with high level of accuracy
Preferred
- CPA license or actively pursuing CPA certification
- Experience with Virginia state tax regulations
- Master's degree in Taxation or Accounting
- QuickBooks proficiency
- Experience with tax planning for closely-held businesses
- Knowledge of accounting software and financial statement preparation
Work Environment
- Modern office in Richmond's financial district
- Collaborative and supportive team culture
- Hybrid work arrangement available
- Extended hours during tax season (January-April)
- Professional development opportunities
- Technology-enabled workspace
Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Performance-based bonus potential
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching
- Paid time off and holidays
- Additional time off after tax season
- CPA exam support and professional development budget
- Continuing education opportunities
- Clear advancement path to management
- Mentorship from experienced tax professionals
Professional Growth
- Opportunity to work with diverse clients across industries
- Exposure to complex tax planning strategies
- Regular training and professional development
- Support for advanced certifications
- Potential for specialization in specific industry sectors
