We are looking for an accomplished Sr. Tax Accountant to join a growing advisory and tax practice in California. This contract-to-permanent opportunity is ideal for a public tax specialist who can manage sophisticated returns with minimal oversight while applying sound accounting knowledge and thoughtful tax judgment. The role supports a diverse client base that includes high-net-worth individuals, business owners, and real estate-focused entities, with an emphasis on accurate compliance work and proactive client service.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare complex federal and California tax filings for individuals, partnerships, S corporations, corporations, and trusts with a high degree of independence.
- Manage returns involving layered ownership structures, K-1 activity, investment income, rental properties, and closely held business interests.
- Evaluate partnership and S corporation tax matters such as basis calculations, owner transactions, depreciation treatment, and related reporting considerations.
- Complete multi-state filings and resolve differences between federal and state reporting requirements, including California-specific obligations.
- Examine prior-year returns, financial records, fixed-asset schedules, and supporting documents to ensure complete and accurate tax preparation.
- Identify missing data, unusual account activity, and potential tax issues early, then follow up with clients or internal reviewers to resolve them efficiently.
- Produce organized workpapers and near-final returns that are ready for streamlined managerial review.
- Communicate directly with clients regarding open items, clarifications, estimated payments, extensions, planning support, and tax notices.
- Use paperless and technology-enabled workflows, including tax, document management, and research tools, to improve efficiency and accuracy.
- Provide guidance to newer team members when needed and contribute to a collaborative tax preparation environment.
- Active CPA or Enrolled Agent credential preferred for this senior-level position.
- At least 5 years of recent tax experience within a public accounting environment.
- Demonstrated success preparing complex Forms 1040, 1065, and 1120-S returns.
- Experience with fiduciary taxation and preparation of Form 1041 is strongly preferred.
- Strong command of federal and California tax rules, including multi-state filing requirements.
- Solid understanding of accounting fundamentals, including the ability to analyze general ledgers, trial balances, and financial statements.
- Proficiency with Lacerte, QuickBooks or QuickBooks Online, Excel, and digital tax workflow platforms is highly desirable.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work directly with clients and manage deadlines effectively.