Senior Tax Associate

Wertz & Associates; Knoxville (TN); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual performance bonus

Flexible hybrid schedule

Work-life balance

Continuing education support

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Wertz & Associates in Knoxville, TN seeks a Senior Tax Associate to advance tax planning, advisory work, and client relationships. You will engage directly with owners and families, delivering sophisticated tax services and leadership potential within a supportive, balanced culture.

The role emphasizes client advisory exposure, proactive planning, and ongoing professional development in a collaborative environment with access to senior leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting (Master's preferred)
• 2+ years of public accounting experience
• Experience preparing business and individual tax returns
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong analytical and organizational abilities
• Commitment to professional development and client service excellence

Responsibilities

• Prepare complex individual, corporate, partnership, and related tax returns.
• Assist with proactive tax planning and consulting engagements.
• Identify tax-saving opportunities and planning strategies.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations.
• Stay current with evolving tax laws and regulatory changes.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships.

Skills

Client relationships

Tax planning

Advisory services

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting

Master's preferred

Job description

Senior Tax Associate

Tax Advisory | Client Relationships | Career Growth | Work-Life Balance

Compensation: $80,000–$100,000 Base + Performance Bonus + Career Advancement
Location: Knoxville, Tennessee
Schedule: Flexible Hybrid

Our client, a highly respected regional CPA and advisory firm, is seeking a Senior Tax Associate to join its growing Knoxville team.

This is an excellent opportunity for a tax professional who wants more than simply preparing tax returns.

You’ll work directly with business owners, entrepreneurs, families, and closely held businesses while expanding your experience in tax planning, consulting, client advisory services, and professional leadership. At the same time, you’ll enjoy the work-life balance and supportive culture that can be difficult to find in public accounting.

The firm’s philosophy is simple: listen better, try harder, and care more. That commitment is reflected not only in how they serve clients but also in how they invest in their employees.

If you’re looking for a firm where you can continue growing professionally while building meaningful client relationships, we’d welcome a confidential conversation.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• $80,000–$100,000 base salary
• Annual performance bonus opportunity
• Strong emphasis on work-life balance
• Meaningful client interaction and advisory exposure
• Diverse tax engagements and planning opportunities
• Supportive, flexible, and team-oriented culture
• Direct access to experienced managers and partners
• Clear path toward Tax Manager and future leadership roles
• Business-casual, laid-back office environment
• Ongoing professional development and continuing education support

Exceptional candidates with advanced tax experience, CPA credentials, or strong client relationship skills may be considered above the posted compensation range.

The Opportunity

As a Senior Tax Associate, you’ll play a key role in delivering high-quality tax services while continuing to develop your technical expertise and client advisory capabilities.

You’ll work closely with business owners, executives, entrepreneurs, and individuals, helping them navigate tax compliance requirements while identifying opportunities for proactive planning and long-term financial success.

This role provides valuable experience in:

• Tax Planning & Advisory Services
• Individual, Corporate & Partnership Taxation
• Client Relationship Management
• Tax Research & Technical Development
• Business Consulting
• Leadership & Career Growth

Tax Compliance & Planning

• Prepare complex individual, corporate, partnership, and related tax returns
• Assist with proactive tax planning and consulting engagements
• Identify tax-saving opportunities and planning strategies
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations
• Stay current with evolving tax laws and regulatory changes

Client Service & Advisory

• Build and maintain strong client relationships
• Communicate directly with clients regarding tax matters and planning opportunities
• Assist business owners and individuals with tax and consulting needs
• Deliver responsive, professional, and client-focused service
• Help clients better understand financial and tax implications of business decisions

Research & Problem Solving

• Conduct tax research and technical analysis
• Assist with complex tax matters and planning projects
• Research and resolve tax notices and client issues
• Apply technical findings to practical client solutions

Professional Development

• Continue building technical expertise through training and continuing education
• Develop leadership and supervisory skills
• Build relationships within the business community and professional networks
• Prepare for advancement into senior leadership roles within the firm

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting (Master's preferred)
• 2+ years of public accounting experience
• Experience preparing business and individual tax returns
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong analytical and organizational abilities
• Commitment to professional development and client service excellence

Preferred

• Active CPA license or CPA candidate status
• Experience with tax planning and consulting
• Experience serving closely held businesses
• Prior client-facing experience
• Leadership or mentoring experience

Who Thrives Here?

The ideal candidate:

• Enjoys building relationships with clients
• Wants exposure to tax planning and advisory work
• Thinks beyond compliance and enjoys solving problems
• Values mentorship and continuous learning
• Is motivated to grow professionally and technically
• Appreciates a collaborative and supportive environment
• Wants career advancement without sacrificing personal priorities

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package
• Annual performance bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive health benefits
• Retirement savings plan
• Paid time off and holidays
• Continuing education support
• CPA development assistance
• Flexible and supportive work environment
• Business-casual office atmosphere
• Strong commitment to work-life balance

About Our Client

Our client is a respected regional CPA and advisory firm that serves businesses, entrepreneurs, organizations, and individuals throughout the region. The firm provides tax, accounting, audit, and consulting services while maintaining a culture centered on relationships, responsiveness, and long-term success.

What differentiates the organization is its commitment to employee growth and quality of life. Professionals enjoy direct access to leadership, strong mentorship, meaningful client relationships, and opportunities to advance their careers in an environment that values both professional achievement and personal well-being.

If you’re a tax professional looking to expand your expertise, deepen client relationships, and build a long-term career with a firm that genuinely values its people, we’d love to speak with you confidentially.