JR Tax Preparer

We are looking for a detail-oriented Tax Preparer to join a growing tax advisory team in California. This contract-to-permanent opportunity is ideal for someone with a solid background in tax return preparation who is ready to contribute in an in-office setting while continuing to build technical expertise. The role supports individuals, business owners, real estate investors, and households with increasingly sophisticated tax needs, with a strong emphasis on accuracy, organization, and dependable follow-through.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare federal and state tax filings for individuals, including returns involving self-employment income, rental activity, investment transactions, capital gains, and pass-through income.
• Complete business tax returns for S corporations and partnerships, handling straightforward to moderately involved engagements with accuracy and efficiency.
• Support the preparation of fiduciary income tax filings for trusts and estates while working alongside senior team members on more technical matters.
• Examine prior-year filings, financial records, carryforward details, and source documents before starting each engagement to ensure a complete understanding of the assignment.
• Develop depreciation schedules, perform account reconciliations, and assemble organized workpapers that support return positions and reviewer needs.
• Monitor assigned returns from preparation through review, keeping work status current and ensuring each file is ready for the next stage without unnecessary delays.
• Recognize inconsistencies, missing documentation, and tax items that may require clarification, then raise questions promptly to avoid incorrect assumptions.
• Respond to review notes and requested revisions in a timely manner, delivering accurate and well-organized returns for final processing.
• At least 4 years of hands-on experience preparing tax returns in a detail-focused accounting or tax environment.
• Practical experience with individual income tax returns and familiarity with common supporting schedules and related tax issues.
• Working knowledge of business entity tax preparation, including S corporation and partnership filings.
• Proficiency with Lacerte Tax Software and comfort working within tax preparation systems and digital workflows.
• Strong attention to detail, dependable organizational skills, and the ability to manage assigned work with minimal supervision.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills, with the judgment to escalate technical questions when needed.
• Ability to work in a permanent in-office environment in Hermosa Beach, California.