Accountant

Pacific Executive Search LLC; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Pacific Executive Search LLC is seeking an on-site Accountant in Southern California to manage a substantial tax client portfolio. The role requires an EA or CPA, at least five years of direct tax preparation experience, and proficiency with complex federal/state returns.

The position emphasizes year-round advisory services, client relationship management, and collaboration with staff. Expect extended hours during peak tax season in the South Bay area.

Qualifications

• Active Enrolled Agent (EA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license in good standing.
• Minimum five years of direct tax preparation experience.
• Experience handling complex individual and business tax returns (federal/state).
• Strong communication skills to explain tax concepts clearly.
• Ability to handle IRS/state audits and correspondence.
• On-site full-time work in the South Bay area.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and review tax returns for individuals and business entities (1040, S corp, C corp, partnerships, trusts).
• Provide year-round tax planning, entity structuring, and retirement planning guidance.
• Perform quality control on returns and optimize tax opportunities.
• Represent clients in IRS/state communications and audits.
• Utilize tax software and digital tools for documentation and e-signatures.
• Maintain client relationships and coordinate with staff.
• Commit to extended hours during peak tax season.

Skills

Portfolio management

Strong communication

Tax return expertise

Education

CPA or EA credential

Tools

Intuit ProSeries

Job description

Managing a substantial portfolio of individual and high-net-worth business clients, this on-site position in Southern California offers a seasoned tax professional the chance to steward long-standing relationships while expanding a robust client base. Embedded within a boutique public accounting firm known for its deep expertise in tax compliance and planning, the role demands a hands-on approach to complex tax returns and year-round advisory services.

Title: Accountant

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and review a diverse range of tax returns including individual 1040s, S and C corporations, partnerships, gift tax, and trust/estate filings with precision and compliance.
• Provide proactive tax planning counsel throughout the year, addressing entity structuring, estimated tax payments, withholding strategies, retirement planning, and compensation considerations.
• Conduct thorough quality control on returns prepared by support staff, identifying discrepancies, errors, and opportunities for tax optimization.
• Represent clients in communications and negotiations with IRS and state tax authorities, managing audits, notices, and other compliance matters.
• Utilize tax preparation software and digital tools efficiently to manage client documentation, electronic signatures, and secure portals.
• Maintain strong client relationships by responding to inquiries, managing deadlines, and coordinating with administrative and preparatory personnel.
• Commit to extended work hours during peak tax season while balancing ongoing client service and business development efforts.

Qualifications:

Must-Have:

• Active Enrolled Agent (EA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license in good standing with no disciplinary history.
• Minimum five years of direct tax preparation experience, including managing a significant client portfolio independently.
• Proven expertise with complex individual and business tax returns, including federal and state filings.
• Strong communication skills to clearly explain tax concepts and build trust with clients.
• Demonstrated ability to handle IRS and state agency correspondence, audits, and client representation.
• Comfortable working full-time on-site in the South Bay area, managing both in-person and phone client appointments.

Nice-to-Have:

• Experience growing a client base through new business development alongside managing an existing book.
• Familiarity with Intuit ProSeries or similar tax software and document management systems.
• Background advising on retirement strategies, entity structure optimization, and tax projections.
• Ability to lead and coordinate with support staff to ensure smooth workflow and client satisfaction.