Tax Associate

MDS Search; Birmingham (AL); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) plan with match

Paid time off

Job summary

MDS Search in Birmingham, AL seeks a Tax Associate with 2–8 years of public accounting experience to join our growing tax practice. You will work closely with senior managers and partners to develop technical mastery and advance professionally within the firm.

The role offers exposure to diverse tax entities and requires in-office presence during the busy season with hybrid options during quieter periods. CPA pursuit or active license is required.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of progressive tax preparation experience in a public accounting or CPA firm setting.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Master’s in Taxation/Accountancy is a plus).
• Active CPA license OR actively working toward CPA designation.
• Familiarity with professional tax preparation software (UltraTax, CCH Axcess, ProSystem fx, or similar) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel).
• Strong attention to detail, analytical mindset, and solid written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Tax Compliance & Preparation: Prepare and assist in reviewing federal, state, and multi-state tax returns for individuals, partnerships (1065), C-Corporations (1120), S-Corporations (1120-S), trusts/estates (1041), and non-profit organizations.
• Tax Planning & Research: Conduct technical tax research on federal and state issues to support proactive tax strategies, quarterly estimates, and tax planning projections for clients.
• Client & Engagement Coordination: Communicate directly with business owners, high-net-worth individuals, and client accounting teams to gather documentation, address inquiries, and resolve tax agency notices.
• Professional Development: Participate in structured technical training and firm mentorship programs to continually sharpen technical skills and expand industry knowledge.

Skills

Detail orientation

Analytical mindset

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting/Finance

Tools

UltraTax

CCH Axcess

ProSystem fx

Excel

Job description

Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, our firm was founded in 1986 as a full-service Certified Public Accounting (CPA) and business advisory firm. For nearly four decades, we have provided comprehensive financial solutions, strategic tax guidance, and advisory services to high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and middle-market businesses across the region.

Our core service lines span:

• Tax Planning & Compliance: Individual, corporate, partnership (including multi-state), trust, estate and gift, non-profit, and retirement plan tax strategies and preparation.
• Accounting & Auditing: Audits, reviews, compilations, bookkeeping, forecasting, and QuickBooks advisory.
• Business Consulting: Entity selection, payroll compliance, sales/use tax, management consulting, and budgeting.

Position Summary

We are seeking a motivated Tax Associate with 2 to 8 years of public accounting experience to join our growing tax practice. This position offers exceptional exposure to a broad client base and diverse tax entity types. Working closely with senior managers and partners, you will build strong technical mastery, gain mentorship across complex tax transactions, and establish a clear path for professional advancement within the firm.

Key Responsibilities

• Tax Compliance & Preparation: Prepare and assist in reviewing federal, state, and multi-state tax returns for individuals, partnerships (1065), C-Corporations (1120), S-Corporations (1120-S), trusts/estates (1041), and non-profit organizations.
• Tax Planning & Research: Conduct technical tax research on federal and state issues to support proactive tax strategies, quarterly estimates, and tax planning projections for clients.
• Client & Engagement Coordination: Communicate directly with business owners, high-net-worth individuals, and client accounting teams to gather documentation, address inquiries, and resolve tax agency notices.
• Professional Development: Participate in structured technical training and firm mentorship programs to continually sharpen technical skills and expand industry knowledge.

Candidate Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: 2+ years of progressive tax preparation experience in a public accounting or CPA firm setting (Role structured for candidates with 2 to 8 years of experience).
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (Master’s in Taxation/Accountancy is a plus).
• Certifications: Active CPA license OR actively working toward CPA designation.
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with professional tax preparation software (e.g., UltraTax, CCH Axcess, ProSystem fx, or similar), research tools, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel).
• Core Competencies: Strong attention to detail, analytical mindset, solid written and verbal communication skills, and a strong desire to learn and advance in public accounting.
• Base Salary: $80,000 - $120,000 (Commensurate with experience and level)
• Work Schedule: In-office presence required during busy season; hybrid work arrangements available during non-busy season.
• Health & Wellness: Excellent health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Financial Security: 401(k) plan with firm contribution/match.
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO policy and firm-paid holidays.
• Career Growth & Support: Full coverage/reimbursement for CPA exam materials, licensure, and continuing professional education (CPE).