Sr. Tax Accountant (CPA Required)

Graystone Group; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Graystone Group is seeking a Senior Tax Accountant in Columbia, SC, to join a boutique public accounting firm. This hands-on role focuses on preparing and reviewing federal and state returns for individuals, S corporations, and C corporations, with direct client interaction and advisory input.

The ideal candidate will bring CPA credentials, public accounting experience in a small to mid-sized firm, and the ability to take ownership of engagements while supporting the firm’s growth and client

Qualifications

• CPA license is required.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Previous public accounting experience in a boutique or mid-sized firm is preferred.
• Strong experience with individual (1040), S corp (1120-S), and C corp (1120) tax returns.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and review federal and state tax returns with a focus on individuals and pass-through entities.
• Interact directly with clients to gather information and explain tax positions.
• Review work of junior staff and provide guidance as needed.
• Manage multiple client engagements and meet deadlines during tax season.

Skills

Client communication

Tax preparation

Attention to detail

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Tools

CCH ProSystem fx Tax

Job description

Graystone Group is exclusively partnered with a well-established boutique public accounting firm in Columbia, SC, on their efforts to add a Senior Tax Accountant to the team.

This is a hands-on opportunity for an experienced tax professional who enjoys working directly with clients, preparing complex tax returns, and being an integral part of a smaller, established CPA firm. The firm's owner is looking for someone who can contribute immediately, take ownership of tax preparation and client deliverables, and continue developing professionally as the practice grows.

The Senior Tax Accountant will be heavily involved in the preparation and review of federal and state tax returns, with the firm's work primarily consisting of individual (1040), S Corporation (1120‑S), and C Corporation (1120) returns. The position will also involve assisting with tax planning, researching complex tax matters, communicating directly with clients, and supporting the firm's overall tax operations.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys the client‑focused environment of a smaller CPA firm and wants greater autonomy, exposure to a diverse client base, and the opportunity to grow into a more senior role over time.

Key Responsibilities

Tax Preparation & Review

• Prepare and review federal and state tax returns, with a primary focus on:
• Individual returns (Form 1040)
• S Corporation returns (Form 1120‑S)
• C Corporation returns (Form 1120)
• Handle complex individual and closely held business tax situations.
• Review tax returns and supporting documentation for accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
• Research and resolve federal and state tax issues.
• Assist clients with tax planning, projections, estimated payments, and other tax‑related matters.
• Identify potential tax‑saving opportunities and provide recommendations to clients.
• Ensure tax returns and supporting documentation meet the firm's quality standards and filing deadlines.
• Remain current on changes to federal and state tax laws and their impact on clients.

Client Relationships & Tax Operations

• Work directly with individual and business clients to gather financial information, address questions, and ensure timely completion of tax returns.
• Develop a strong understanding of each client's financial and tax situation.
• Assist with year‑round tax planning and provide guidance on individual and business tax matters.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with business owners, individuals, and other key clients.
• Coordinate with firm leadership and other team members to manage tax deadlines, workflow, and client deliverables.
• Identify opportunities to improve internal processes, efficiencies, and quality‑control procedures.
• Take ownership of assigned client engagements while collaborating with senior leadership on more complex matters.

Team Collaboration & Professional Development

• Collaborate with other tax professionals to ensure accurate and timely completion of client work.
• Assist junior accounting and tax staff with technical questions and tax preparation matters.
• Provide feedback and guidance on tax returns prepared by less experienced team members.
• Support workflow management and prioritization during tax season.
• Serve as a resource on individual and business taxation.
• Continue developing technical expertise and client advisory skills with opportunities for increased responsibility and career advancement.

Required Qualifications

• CPA license
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Previous public accounting experience, preferably within a small or mid‑sized CPA firm.
• Strong experience preparing individual (1040), S Corporation (1120‑S), and C Corporation (1120) tax returns.
• Solid understanding of federal and state tax regulations.
• Experience handling individual and closely held business tax matters.
• Ability to independently prepare tax returns and manage multiple client engagements.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Comfortable interacting directly with clients and answering tax‑related questions.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a smaller public accounting environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years of tax experience within public accounting.
• Experience reviewing tax returns prepared by junior staff.
• Experience working directly with business owners and high‑net‑worth individuals.
• Experience with CCH ProSystem fx Tax or similar professional tax software.
• Experience assisting with tax planning and advisory services.
• Background within a boutique or mid‑sized CPA firm.

Why This Opportunity?

• Established Boutique Firm: Join a well‑respected CPA practice with an existing client base and a collaborative, client‑focused environment.
• Hands‑On Tax Experience: Work directly on individual and business tax returns while gaining exposure to a variety of complex tax matters.
• Direct Access to Leadership: Work closely with the firm's owner and senior professionals rather than navigating multiple layers of management.
• Client Interaction: Develop meaningful relationships with clients and play an active role in delivering tax services.
• Long‑Term Career Growth: Opportunity to take on additional responsibilities and advance into a Tax Manager or leadership position as the practice continues to grow.
• Autonomy & Visibility: Be an important contributor within a smaller firm where your work and contributions are recognized.