Senior Manager, Emerging Growth Tax

Socket.dev; Irvine (CA); Hybrid; USD 165,000 - 215,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

401(k)

Pension

Equity programs

Job summary

KBF Advisory is seeking a Senior Manager (or Manager) to join our Emerging Growth tax team in a hybrid role based in Irvine, CA, or remotely across the U.S. This position leads tax engagements for venture-backed startups, partners with cross-functional teams, and drives strategic planning and compliance for high-growth clients.

The ideal candidate has 8–12+ years of public accounting tax experience, CPA license, and strong leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field; Master’s preferred; CPA license.
• 8–12+ years of public accounting experience in tax.
• Experience with corporate and/or partnership taxation and complex matters.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a trusted tax advisor to emerging growth companies across the startup lifecycle.
• Identify cross-selling opportunities and support M&A due diligence.
• Provide proactive tax planning and advisory services to venture-backed firms.
• Review federal and multi-state tax returns for accuracy.
• Research complex tax issues and prepare technical memoranda.
• Build strong client relationships and mentor staff.
• Collaborate across internal teams on federal, state, and international tax matters.
• Assist with tax controversy matters and audits.

Skills

Client advisory

Leadership

Mentoring

Tax research

Communication

Startup experience

AI tools

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field

Master’s preferred

CPA license

Tools

GoSystem

OIT

AI tools

Job description

KBF is built differently. By pairing an entrepreneurial mindset with deep technical experience, KBF is a trusted partner and recognized leader in tax, audit, and advisory services, providing a comprehensive range of solutions designed to support our clients’ growth and expansion.

Since day one, our growth has been rapid, requiring exceptional professionals that bring both technical skill and strategic vision to the table. Our culture combines the energy and flexibility of a start-up with the opportunity to develop and advance a career based on your strengths and interests.

KBF is currently seeking aSenior Manager(or Manager) to join our Emerging Growth tax team.

The KBF Emerging Growth Tax group is focused on delivering strategic tax advisory and planning services to high-growth, venture-backed, and entrepreneurial companies, helping founders navigate complex and evolving business needs. The team also provides tax compliance support as part of a holistic client service approach. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical expertise, a client-focused mindset, and experience partnering with dynamic businesses in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a trusted tax advisor to emerging growth companies across the full startup lifecycle—from formation and equity compensation through fundraising, R&D credits, scaling, and exit—while overseeing and reviewing related tax engagements for corporations and partnerships
• Identifyand developcross-selling opportunities across the firm, including R&D credits, QSBS (Section 1202), and entity structuring, while collaborating with sales tax compliance and consulting teams and supporting buy-side and sell-side tax due diligence and broader M&A transaction advisory services
• Provide proactive tax planning and advisory services to venture-backed and high-growth companies
• Review federal and multi-state tax returns for accuracy and completeness
• Research complex tax issues and prepare clear, concise technical memoranda
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients and build strong, trusted relationships
• Collaborate with internal teams across federal, state, and international tax matters
• Mentor and develop associates and senior staff, supporting team growth and engagement
• Assist with tax controversy matters, including responding to notices and supporting audits

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field (Master’s preferred)
• CPA license
• Minimum 8-12+ years of public accounting experience in tax
• Strong experience with corporate and/or partnership taxation, with the ability to advise clients on complex tax matters
• Demonstrated motivation, adaptability, and strong communication skills with a high level of professionalism
• Experience working with startups, SaaS companies, or venture-backed businesses
• Experience/willingness to leverage AI tools and LLMs (e.g., Claude, ChatGPT, Copilot, Bloomberg AI) for tax research, memo drafting, and data analysis.
• Proficiency in tax software including GoSystem and OIT
• Familiarity with Equity compensation (ISOs, NSOs), Section 1202 (Qualified Small Business Stock), R&D tax credits, Multi-state tax considerations, ASC 740, Section 174 capitalization, sales tax/indirect tax, and buy-side/sell-side M&A due diligence
• Proven ability toleadmultiple engagements(and oversee teams, ensuring quality, efficiency, and deadlines are met)
• Eligibility to work in the U.S.

Remote (U.S.) or hybrid from one of our office locations: Irvine or San Diego, CA; Lake Oswego, OR; Las Vegas, NV; or Seattle, WA

The salary range for this position reflects various factors that influence compensation decisions, such as skills, experience, training, certifications, licensure, geographic location, and other organizational requirements. At KBF Advisory, it is uncommon for a candidate to be hired at the high end of the salary range, as compensation is based on the unique qualifications and circumstances of each individual. The estimated current salary range for this role is $165,000 to $215,000 for the Senior Manager level and $125,000 to $165,000 for the Manager level.

Why KBF?

Benefits are a vital component of overall compensation. At KBF, we also offer a unique opportunity to work directly with founders and leadership teams, gaining exposure across the full startup lifecycle—from formation through exit—within a highly entrepreneurial and collaborative culture. We are proud to provide a comprehensive range of quality benefits, including medical, dental, 401(k), pension, and equity programs, along with a clear path for professional growth and advancement. Our benefits are designed to support your health, protect your family, and enhance your overall quality of life.