Archived listing. The details below describe a past opening.
Tax Preparer / Tax Associate Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire Experience Level: 2–5 Years About the Opportunity Join a growing CPA firm in Silicon Valley seeking a motivated Tax Preparer / Tax Associate with hands-on individual tax return experience and a desire to build a long-term career in public accounting. This is an excellent opportunity to work directly with an experienced CPA, gain exposure to a growing client base, and take on increasing responsibility as the firm expands. The ideal candidate has completed at least 2–3 tax seasons, brings a strong foundation in individual tax preparation, and is eager to grow beyond day-to-day tax support into a more independent client-facing and tax preparation role.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the CPA with day-to-day tax preparation and administrative workflows, including organizing and processing client tax documents.
- Review uploaded client documentation for completeness and accuracy, identify outstanding items, and prepare open-item lists for clients.
- Coordinate directly with clients to request missing documentation, clarify information, and keep tax engagements moving forward.
- Consolidate client documents and supporting schedules into organized PDF files and maintain accurate electronic client records.
- Prepare tax files for CPA review and assist with addressing review notes and following up on outstanding client items.
- Assist with individual income tax return preparation and gradually take on additional tax-related responsibilities as experience and proficiency grow.
- Support tax workflow management, deadlines, and client communications throughout the tax season and year-round.
- Identify opportunities to improve processes, streamline workflows, and leverage technology to increase efficiency.
Qualifications
- Required: 2–5 years of applicable tax experience, including at least 2–3 completed tax seasons.
- Required: Hands-on experience preparing individual income tax returns (Form 1040).
- Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple client engagements and deadlines.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to communicate professionally with clients.
- Comfortable working independently, taking ownership of assigned tasks, and learning new processes.
- Tech-savvy, adaptable, and interested in improving efficiency through new tools and technology.
Preferred Qualifications
- Active CPA license or Enrolled Agent (EA) credential.
- Experience with entity tax returns, including partnerships (1065) and S corporations (1120-S), as well as trust returns (1041).
- Familiarity with professional tax preparation software and digital document management systems.
- Interest or experience in AI tools and emerging tax technology, including ways to automate administrative tasks and improve tax preparation workflows.
Growth Opportunity This contract-to-hire opportunity is ideal for someone who wants to grow alongside a developing CPA firm. The position will initially focus on client coordination, document management, and tax workflow support, with the opportunity to progressively assume greater responsibility for tax preparation and client engagements. The firm is looking for someone who is proactive, innovative, and excited to contribute to both the day-to-day operations and the long-term growth of the practice.