Senior Tax Professional / Tax Manager

Schedule: Full-time, year-round. Extended hours are expected during the tax season (January-April). Hours may vary based on workload during off-season.

Position Summary

The Senior Tax Professional / Tax Manager is responsible for preparing and reviewing complex individual and business tax returns, ensuring compliance with federal and state tax laws, and maintaining the firm’s standards for accuracy and quality. This position requires deep technical knowledge, strong attention to detail, and the ability to manage a high-volume workload efficiently during peak tax season. The role involves collaboration with the partners and tax assistants to deliver timely and accurate tax preparation, planning, and client support. While the position does not include direct staff supervision at this time, it may include review or leadership responsibilities in the future.

• Tax Preparation and Review
• Prepare and review complex individual (Form 1040) and business (Forms 1120, 1120S, and 1065) tax returns using Drake Tax Software.
• Review tax returns prepared by others, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and adherence to firm procedures.
• Identify discrepancies, errors, or missing information and recommend corrective actions.
• Maintain compliance with all applicable tax laws, regulations, and filing deadlines.
• Conduct tax research and interpret IRS and state guidance to resolve complex issues.
• Document all work performed in accordance with firm policies and record-keeping standards.
• Client Service and Planning
• Conduct tax strategy and planning meetings with clients, identifying opportunities for tax savings or process improvements.
• Provide clear and professional communication when discussing tax positions, recommendations, or next steps.
• Support partners in addressing technical questions or issues raised by clients or staff.
• Ensure client confidentiality and professionalism in all communications.
• Process Improvement and Firm Support
• Research federal and state tax law changes and share relevant updates with the team.
• Assist in refining firm templates, checklists, and review procedures for efficiency and consistency.
• Participate in training, internal process improvement, and workflow development projects independently and as requested
• Provide feedback on technology tools and recommend enhancements where beneficial.

Requirements

• 10+ years of professional tax preparation experience in a public accounting or tax firm environment.
• 3+ years of hands-on experience using Drake Tax Software.
• Demonstrated ability to review, correct, and approve returns prepared by others.
• Strong knowledge of individual, small business, and multi-state tax preparation and compliance.
• Proven ability to manage multiple deadlines and work efficiently under pressure during peak season.
• Exceptional attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Must work on-site in Auburndale, Florida.

Preferred

• Enrolled Agent (EA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential.
• Experience responding to IRS or state correspondence and assisting clients with payment arrangements or post-filing issues.
• Familiarity with Financial Cents, SmartVault, or similar tax workflow systems.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and continuing education.

Performance Expectations

• Completes assigned returns and reviews accurately and on schedule.
• Maintains professionalism and upholds the firm’s reputation for integrity and quality.
• Demonstrates consistent attention to accuracy, compliance, and detail.
• Participates actively in tax season and off-season projects with a proactive, solutions-focused mindset.
• Contributes positively to team communication and collaboration.
• Stays current on tax law updates and best practices.

FLSA Classification Justification

This position meets the Administrative Exemption under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The Senior Tax Professional / Tax Manager’s primary duties involve office and non-manual work directly related to the general business operations of the company and its clients. The role requires the regular exercise of discretion and independent judgment in matters of significance, including auditing work for accuracy, advising on process standards, and assisting management with workflow and training initiatives.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Accounting/Auditing and Finance

Industries

• Accounting