Tax Preparer/Staff Tax Accountant

Tax Preparer/Staff Tax AccountantLocation: Norwalk, CTPosition Type: Full-Time, PermanentCompensation: $65,000 - $80,000 Base + ~10% Productivity Bonus The RoleWe are seeking a detail-oriented Tax Preparer / Staff Tax Accountant to join our team. In this hands-on position, you will work closely with small business owners and high-net-worth individuals, handling client bookkeeping clean-up, preparing individual and business tax returns, and organizing tax documentation.This role offers a collaborative environment, direct mentorship from senior leaders, and a clear, structured growth path to advance your public accounting career.Key ResponsibilitiesTax Preparation: Prepare individual (Form 1040) and small-to-midsize business returns (Forms 1065, 1120-S, 1120), ensuring accuracy and compliance with federal and state regulations.Bookkeeping & Trial Balances: Clean up and adjust client trial balances in QuickBooks (Online & Desktop); perform bank reconciliations, record depreciation schedules, and post standard journal entries.Client Communication: Gather tax documentation, follow up on missing information, and assist clients with general accounting inquiries.Engagement Support: Organize electronic tax files, assemble tax returns for final review by senior staff and managers, and track filing deadlines.RequirementsExperience: 1-3 years of hands-on tax preparation and bookkeeping experience in a public accounting firm or tax office.Education: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience); EA designation or pursuing a CPA is a plus.Software Skills: Proficiency in QuickBooks (Online & Desktop) and Microsoft Excel. Experience with UltraTax CS or Thomson Reuters software is a major plus.Attributes: High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a genuine interest in serving small business clients.Hours & CultureBusy Season: ~55-60 hours per week during peak periods (Feb-April & Sept-Oct).Work-Life Balance: Informal summer hours (Late May-August). We consistently invest in modern technology and workflow processes to prevent year-round burnout.Benefits & PerksBonuses: ~10% annual productivity bonus paid in two installments (April and October).Time Off: 3 weeks of PTO + a robust paid holiday schedule (including Christmas Eve, the day after Christmas, Black Friday, and 2 days off immediately following the April 15th deadline).Health & Retirement: Aetna Health Insurance with an HRA (100% premium covered for employee-only); 401(k) with traditional/Roth options and employer match (eligible after 1 year).Professional Development: 40+ hours of annual CPE fully paid (including a 2-day tax update seminar every January); annual performance reviews right after the April deadline.