Private Client Paralegal - Tax Specialist

Job Posting: Apr. 8, 2026 Thompson Coburn, a large full‑service law firm with offices in eight cities across the U.S., is searching for a full‑time, non‑exempt Private Client Paralegal to join its St. Louis office. The role requires significant experience preparing Forms 706, 709, and 1041 to support sophisticated wealth transfer and estate planning matters. Under the supervision of the Senior Manager of Practice Support Services, this position blends advanced tax compliance work with trust and estate administration in a collaborative, high‑performing legal environment. After an initial period of training, the position is eligible for a hybrid‑remote work schedule. Key Responsibilities Prepares federal estate tax returns (Form 706), including compilation of asset information, review of valuations, portability elections, deductions, and supporting schedules. Prepares federal gift tax returns (Form 709), including split‑gift elections and lifetime exemption tracking. Prepares fiduciary income tax returns (Form 1041) and related state filings in coordination with supervising attorneys. Reviews prior tax returns and financial documentation to support attorneys in estate planning strategy and generation‑skipping transfer tax analysis. Gathers and analyzes financial records necessary for tax compliance, coordinating with clients, financial institutions, appraisers, and other advisors. Maintains organized tax workpapers and supporting documentation consistent with Firm standards and regulatory requirements. Assists with trust and estate administration matters, including drafting routine probate pleadings, inventories, accountings, and related documentation as appropriate. Coordinates trust funding and asset transfers, including communication with banks, brokers, insurance companies, and other third parties. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required Must possess a high level of professionalism and interpersonal skills so as to be able to work well with client, client advisors and employees at all levels within the organization and maintain all information in the strictest of confidence. Required to use tact and diplomacy when dealing with others. Proficient with Microsoft Office software, including Outlook, Word and Excel. Must have strong technical skills including Adobe and the ability to quickly learn new technology. Must have the ability to read, write and communicate in fluent English; ability to analyze complex documents and compose documents in the appropriate business style using correct grammar and spelling; ability to communicate clearly using proper grammar and diction over the telephone. Must be detail‑oriented and have excellent organizational skills; ability to balance multiple projects, work independently and have strong time management skills, as well as prioritize workload. Must be a dynamic and creative thinker, and adept at solving problems. Must have ability to reason and apply common‑sense understanding to situations encountered. Ability to process routine daily functions while being able to resolve sensitive issues and complex assignments utilizing above‑average critical thinking skills. Must be proactive communicating issues relating to assignment expectations and the ability to meet deadlines or expectations. Ability to work overtime or travel as needed. Experience and Education Qualifications Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree required. Paralegal certificate preferred. Minimum of five (5) years of experience in estate, gift, and fiduciary income tax preparation, including substantial experience preparing Forms 706, 709, and 1041 required. Experience in a law firm, accounting firm, or other professional services environment strongly preferred. Benefits Medical Insurance Vision Insurance Life Insurance & ADD policies Short & Long Term Disability Insurance 401(k) Profit Sharing plans Parking/Transportation Stipend Section 125 Plan (Pre‑tax premiums, dependent care and medical reimbursement) Paid Holidays Paid Vacation Time Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Employee Wellness Program Tuition Reimbursement College Savings Plan Deductions (529 Plans) #J-18808-Ljbffr Ala Gateway