Senior Tax Accountant

Role Title: Senior Tax Accountant
Department/Team: Tax & Accounting
Reports To: Managing Partner
Status: Full-Time, Exempt
Location: On-site (Frankfort, IL 60423)
Compensation: Salary ($88,000 - $105,000/year)

About Cornerstone Tax Service

Cornerstone Tax Service, Inc. is a full service tax and accounting firm in Frankfort, IL. We are a team of tax and accounting professionals that provide our clients with the same high standards, specialization, and service that we expect of ourselves. We are looking for longevity and someone who wants to grow with a quickly expanding firm.

Role Purpose

This role exists to provide expert tax preparation and strategic tax planning services to a diverse client base by ensuring accurate, compliant tax filings and proactive tax strategies so that clients optimize their tax positions while maintaining full regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and review tax returns for individuals, partnerships, corporations, trusts, and non-profits
• Review, organize, and scan client documents
• Conduct tax research and provide guidance on tax planning strategies
• Assist with general ledger accounting and financial statement preparation
• Perform general ledger reconciliation and balance sheet reconciliation
• Review of client-prepared financial statements for accuracy
• Prepare regulatory reports and ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations
• Collaborate with clients to gather necessary financial information for tax filings
• Provide support during tax audits and respond to inquiries from tax authorities
• Assist in the development and implementation of tax planning strategies for clients
• Stay updated on changes in tax laws and regulations to ensure compliance

KPIs / Success Metrics

How performance will be measured:

• Number of tax returns completed accurately per season (target range based on complexity mix)
• Client satisfaction and retention rates
• Tax filing accuracy rate (target: 99%+)
• Average turnaround time for return completion
• Billable hours utilization rate during tax season
• Percentage of returns requiring minimal partner review/corrections

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field
• CPA certification is highly preferred; EA is acceptable
• Minimum of 7-10+ years of experience in individual and corporate tax preparation
• Accounting experience: 7 years minimum
• Strong knowledge of general ledger accounting principles and practices
• Proficient in QuickBooks software (both desktop and online)
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Office Suite
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in work
• Strong communication and analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously, yet work collaboratively when needed

Preferred Skills & Bonus Qualifications

What helps you excel (not required):

• Proficient in UltraTax tax preparation software 
• Experience with trust and estate taxation
• Prior public accounting or CPA firm experience
• Experience mentoring or training junior staff
• Advanced tax planning coursework or specialized certifications

Core Behaviors & Cultural Expectations

How we expect you to show up:

• Demonstrates accountability by meeting deadlines and proactively communicating when challenges arise
• Maintains strict client confidentiality and upholds professional ethics standards
• Communicates clearly and professionally with clients and team members
• Embraces continuous learning and stays current with evolving tax laws
• Shows initiative in identifying tax-saving opportunities for clients
• Balances independent work with collaborative teamwork as situations require

Tools & Technology Required

• QuickBooks Desktop and Online
• UltraTax or similar tax preparation software
• Planner or other tax projection software
• Practice or other CRM system
• SafeSend or other client portal and document exchange
• Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook)
• Document management and scanning systems
• Electronic filing platforms (e.g., IRS e-file)
• Online tax research databases

Work Hours & Schedule

Off-Season (Post Season - December):

• Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm

Tax Season (January 15 - April 15):

• Extended hours required: typically 50-60 hours per week
• Saturday work during peak periods (February-April)
• Flexibility in daily start/end times with manager approval

Training & Onboarding

Your first 90 days:

• Days 1-30: Orientation to firm systems, software training, client file review processes, and firm standards
• Days 31-60: Shadow senior team members, begin preparing simpler returns under supervision
• Days 61-90: Transition to full client load with periodic quality reviews
• Ongoing: Required continuing education credits as mandated by CPA/EA license requirements

Growth Path & Compensation Review Timeline

Where this role can lead:

• Advancement opportunities to Senior Tax Manager
• Potential to specialize in specific tax niches (trusts, corporate, nonprofit)
• Opportunities to mentor junior staff and take on leadership responsibilities

Reviews:

• Annual compensation review each June/July
• Performance reviews conducted annually with mid-year check-ins

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit at a desk and work on a computer for extended periods
• Occasional lifting of file boxes and documents (up to 25 lbs)
• Reliable transportation for occasional client meetings (mileage reimbursed)

Benefits

• 401(k) with company matching
• Retirement plan
• Continuing education credits
• Dependent care benefits
• Health Insurance
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off
• Mileage reimbursement for job-related expenses

Application Questions

Please address the following in your Cover letter submitted as a part of your application:

1. Have you ever prepared taxes in person with a client present? Please describe your experience.

2. How many tax returns did you prepare last season, and what was the complexity mix (individual vs. corporate, simple vs. complex)?

3. What aspect of tax work energizes you most, and what type of work environment helps you thrive?

4. Anything you would like to mention we should take into consideration about your background or qualifications?