Senior Tax Associate

Senior Tax Associate

Location: Fairfield, New Jersey
Employment Type: Full-Time
Experience Level: Senior-Level (4-7 years)
Department: Tax Services

Company Overview

Our clients well-established CPA firm in Fairfield, NJ is seeking a dedicated Senior Tax Associate to join their growing tax practice. They provide comprehensive tax, accounting, and advisory services to a diverse client base including individuals, small to mid-sized businesses, partnerships, and closely-held corporations. Our clients firm prides itself on delivering exceptional client service while maintaining a collaborative and supportive work environment that promotes professional growth and development.

Position Summary

The Senior Tax Associate will be responsible for preparing and reviewing complex tax returns, supervising junior staff, and providing tax planning and consulting services to clients. This role requires a detail-oriented professional with strong technical tax knowledge who can work independently while contributing to team success during busy seasons and year-round client service initiatives.

Key Responsibilities



Tax Preparation & Review

• Prepare and review federal and multi-state tax returns for individuals, partnerships, S-corporations, and C-corporations
• Handle complex tax situations including multi-state filings, consolidated returns, and specialized industries
• Review tax returns prepared by staff and associates, ensuring accuracy and compliance with current tax laws
• Prepare quarterly and annual tax projections and estimated tax calculations
• Process tax extensions and amended returns as needed
• Ensure all tax returns are completed accurately and filed timely

Client Service & Communication

• Serve as primary contact for assigned clients regarding tax matters
• Conduct client meetings to gather information, explain tax situations, and provide recommendations
• Respond to client inquiries via phone and email in a timely and professional manner
• Prepare client tax organizers and coordinate information gathering process
• Explain complex tax concepts to clients in understandable terms
• Maintain strong client relationships and identify opportunities for additional services

Tax Research & Planning

• Research complex tax issues using professional tax research tools (RIA, CCH, BNA)
• Provide tax planning advice and strategies to minimize client tax liabilities
• Stay current with federal and state tax law changes and their impact on clients
• Assist with tax controversy matters including IRS and state audit support
• Prepare technical memoranda documenting research findings and recommendations
• Participate in tax planning meetings and strategy sessions

Staff Supervision & Training

• Supervise and mentor junior tax associates and seasonal staff
• Review work performed by junior staff members and provide constructive feedback
• Assist with training new staff on firm procedures and tax software
• Help coordinate staff assignments and workflow during busy season
• Contribute to staff development through knowledge sharing and technical guidance

Administrative & Practice Development

• Maintain accurate time records and meet billable hour requirements
• Assist with engagement management including budget monitoring and client billing
• Participate in firm training programs and continuing education activities
• Support business development efforts through client referrals and networking
• Contribute to process improvements and efficiency initiatives

Required Qualifications



Education & Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
• CPA license preferred (or actively pursuing CPA certification)
• 150 credit hours completed (required for CPA eligibility)

Experience

• 4-7 years of progressive public accounting tax experience
• Strong experience with individual and business tax return preparation
• Experience with multi-state tax filings and compliance
• Proven track record of working in a fast-paced public accounting environment
• Experience supervising and training junior staff members

Technical Skills

• Proficiency with professional tax software (ProSystem fx, Lacerte, UltraTax, or similar)
• Advanced knowledge of federal and state tax laws and regulations
• Experience with tax research tools (RIA, CCH Tax Research, BNA)
• Strong Microsoft Excel and Word skills
• Familiarity with accounting software (QuickBooks, Sage, etc.)
• Experience with document management systems

Core Competencies

• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines
• Leadership skills with ability to mentor and guide junior staff
• Client service orientation with professional demeanor
• Strong organizational and time management skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Taxation or related field
• CPA certification in New Jersey (or reciprocal state)
• Experience with specialized tax areas (real estate, not-for-profit, estates/trusts)
• Previous supervisory or team leadership experience
• Experience with tax planning and consulting services
• Familiarity with New Jersey and New York state tax laws
• Experience with IRS and state audit representation

Essential Job Functions

• Ability to work extended hours during tax season (January - April 15)
• Comfortable working in a collaborative team environment
• Capable of handling confidential client information with discretion
• Ability to travel to client locations when necessary
• Physical ability to sit for extended periods and work at computer workstation

What We Offer



Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Performance-based annual bonus
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching
• Paid time off and holiday schedule
• Professional development and continuing education reimbursement
• CPA exam support and certification bonus

Work Environment & Culture

• Collaborative and supportive team atmosphere
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
• Flexible work arrangements
• Modern office facilities with up-to-date technology
• Regular team building activities and firm events
• Mentorship programs and career development planning

Career Growth Opportunities

This position offers excellent potential for advancement, including:

• Promotion to Tax Manager or Senior Manager roles
• Opportunity to develop specialized expertise in niche areas
• Client relationship management and business development responsibilities
• Leadership roles in training and staff development
• Potential partnership track for exceptional performers