Staff Accountant - Tax & Client Accounting Services

We are partnering with a well-established, small CPA firm in Burke, VA, seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Staff Accountant to join its close-knit team. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career accounting professional who enjoys variety and wants to build a strong foundation in both tax preparation and client accounting.

This role offers a roughly 50/50 mix of individual and business tax work and ongoing bookkeeping and accounting support for clients . The ideal candidate has an accounting or finance degree, some exposure to a public accounting tax season, and the organizational skills and initiative to manage multiple priorities in a small-firm environment.

You'll work directly with experienced accounting professionals, gain hands-on exposure to a variety of clients, and develop skills across both tax and general accounting rather than being limited to one narrow function.

Please note: Candidates must currently reside in the Greater DC metropolitan area. Out-of-state applications will not be considered.

What You'll Be Doing

Tax Preparation & Support

• Assist with the preparation of federal and state tax returns for individuals and business entities.
• Gather, organize, and review client financial information and supporting documentation.
• Assist with tax-related research, client questions, and correspondence as needed.
• Support tax planning and other client advisory activities as you develop your skills.
• Help ensure client deliverables are accurate, organized, and completed within established deadlines.

Bookkeeping & Client Accounting

• Maintain accurate financial records for a portfolio of small-business clients.
• Record and categorize transactions, reconcile bank and credit card accounts, and maintain general ledgers.
• Assist with monthly and quarterly bookkeeping and financial reporting.
• Review financial information for accuracy, identify discrepancies, and follow up on outstanding items.
• Help keep client accounts organized and up to date throughout the year.

Client & Administrative Support

• Communicate with clients to obtain financial information and resolve routine questions.
• Manage multiple client assignments and deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.
• Work collaboratively with the firm's team to keep engagements moving efficiently.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field.
• Some exposure to a tax season in a public accounting environment through an internship, seasonal position, or full-time employment.
• Foundational knowledge of accounting principles and financial statements.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and comfort working with financial data.
• Strong attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Clear communication skills and a professional, client-focused attitude.

Nice to Have

• Experience with bookkeeping, account reconciliations, or general ledger maintenance.
• Familiarity with tax preparation or accounting software.
• Progress toward the CPA designation or an interest in pursuing it.

Key Traits for Success

• Organized and dependable, with strong follow-through.
• Analytical and detail-oriented, with a desire to understand the numbers rather than simply enter data.
• Adaptable and comfortable switching between tax assignments, bookkeeping tasks, and client requests.
• A team player who is willing to pitch in wherever needed.
• Comfortable working in a small-firm environment where collaboration, initiative, and accountability matter.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Variety in your work: Build experience in both tax preparation and client accounting.
• Direct mentorship: Work closely with experienced professionals in a small, collaborative firm.
• Broad client exposure: Gain experience supporting individuals and small businesses across multiple accounting needs.
• Room to grow: Develop a well-rounded accounting skill set with opportunities to take on greater responsibility over time.
• A close-knit environment: Join a small team where your contributions are visible and your work makes a difference.