Tax Resolution Associate (Carlsbad)

About the Company

We are a national professional services and technology organization with a rapidly growing presence across the United States, now expanding with a new office in Carlsbad, California. Our platform brings together Rockwater Tax, a high-touch tax services firm serving businesses nationwide, and TaxRock, a technology-driven compliance and risk intelligence platform that empowers organizations to proactively monitor and manage tax exposure.

Together, we combine deep expertise with innovative technology to deliver smarter, more efficient solutions while creating opportunities for our team to grow, take ownership, and make a real impact.

The Role

Rockwater Tax is looking for an energetic, licensed Tax Resolution Associate to join our growing tax resolution team! You’ll help individuals and businesses resolve complex IRS and state tax matters, managing each case from onboarding through resolution.

You’ll be the client’s go-to advocate. You’ll partner with our sales team to bring new clients on board, build the strategy that gets them the best possible outcome, and represent them confidently with the taxing authorities. You’ll also lead the support staff who help keep your cases moving. We’re building this team from the ground up and want someone who brings sound judgment, sharp technical skills, and a “let’s find a way” attitude. You know the person who can get a Revenue Officer on the phone and walk away with a workable plan? That’s who we’re looking for.

This role is on-site in our Carlsbad office five days a week, Monday through Friday.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, solutions-driven, confident and client-focused, with deep knowledge of tax resolution procedures and a talent for managing a full caseload. This role is well suited for someone who enjoys advocating for clients, takes pride in getting results, and wants to grow their career in a fast-scaling company.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout onboarding and case resolution
• Partner closely with the sales team to support a seamless client onboarding experience, including participation in initial client conversations, aligning on scope, and ensuring a smooth transition from sale to service
• Develop and execute resolution strategies, including: Installment agreements, Offers in Compromise, Currently Not Collectible status, Trust Fund Recovery Penalty cases, Audit reconsiderations and appeals, Innocent spouse relief
• Represent clients in communications with the IRS and state agencies (Revenue Officers, ACS, agents, etc.)
• Analyze financial documents including tax returns, bank statements, and business records to support case strategy
• Conduct technical research using the IRC, IRM, and applicable state laws to identify opportunities and mitigate risk
• Prepare and present client deliverables, recommendations, and required documentation
• Maintain strong client relationships and deliver a high-touch, responsive client experience
• Utilize internal systems and proprietary technology to manage cases efficiently and accurately
• Partner with and oversee support staff to delegate tasks effectively, ensure quality of work, and maintain workflow efficiency
• Maintain an expected utilization rate of 80%, balancing high-quality client delivery with efficient time management

Qualifications

• EA, CPA, or JD required (active license)
• 2–5+ years of experience in tax resolution, tax controversy, or related field
• Strong working knowledge of IRS and state collection procedures
• Proven ability to manage multiple cases and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Experience delegating to or coordinating with support staff strongly preferred
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to advocate effectively on behalf of clients
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail
• Comfortable working with technology and learning new systems
• This role is required to be full-time in the Carlsbad, CA office.

Why Rockwater Tax

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
• Full benefits package including health, dental, and company matching 401(k).
• Company-wide winter break – we shut down for a full week over Christmas. PTO + paid holidays.
• Professional development support.
• Growth opportunities in a fast-scaling company.
• A role with local presence and national impact.
• Be part of a culture built on integrity, transparency and relentless client focus.