Estate Administration Paralegal - Federal Estate Tax Experience Required

Job Description

Job Description

Gadsden Schneider & Woodward LLP is a boutique trust and estate law firm serving high-net-worth individuals and families. We are seeking an experienced Estate Administration Paralegal to manage sophisticated estate and trust matters from inception through closing.

This position offers meaningful responsibility, professional autonomy, direct client engagement, and the opportunity to become a valued long-term member of a highly collaborative and respected firm. Please note: This role requires hands-on experience with federal estate tax returns (Form 706). Candidates without this experience are unlikely to be a fit.

Position Overview

The Estate Administration Paralegal plays a central role in the firm's estate and trust administration practice. The successful candidate will independently manage complex matters, serve as a primary point of contact for clients and fiduciaries, and ensure all aspects of administration are handled efficiently, accurately, and with exceptional service. A significant component of this role includes the preparation and coordination of federal estate tax returns (Form 706) for high-value estates.

Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, beneficiaries, fiduciaries and financial institutions, providing clear communication and exceptional service throughout the administration process.

• Independently manage the administration of estates and trusts.

• Draft probate petitions, notices, correspondence, and closing documents.

• Identify and gather estate assets; prepare and maintain detailed inventories.

• Prepare and/or coordinate the preparation of federal estate tax returns (Form 706), including assembling supporting schedules, valuations, and required disclosures.

• Prepare Pennsylvania inheritance tax returns and fiduciary accountings.

• Maintain financial records used in the preparation of tax returns and accountings.

• Coordinate with attorneys, accountants, financial advisors, and court personnel to ensure timely and accurate filings.

• Track deadlines, manage workflows, and proactively identify issues before they arise.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of direct experience in estate and trust administration, including managing matters independently from beginning to end.

• Demonstrated experience with federal estate tax returns (Form 706), including a strong understanding of reporting requirements, valuation issues, and filing deadlines.

• Bachelor's degree, paralegal certificate, or equivalent professional experience.

• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

• Experience with fiduciary accounting software (Lackner preferred).

• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously.

• Professional communication skills and a high level of client service orientation.

• Ability to work independently while contributing as part of a collaborative team.

Why Join Gadsden Schneider & Woodward

• Highly respected boutique firm focused exclusively on estate planning, trust administration, and wealth preservation.

• Collegial, professional, and supportive firm culture.

• Meaningful client work with high-level responsibility.

• Competitive compensation and benefits, commensurate with experience.

• Long-term growth opportunity for a committed professional.

Interested? Please send your resume with a cover letter and your desired salary.