Tax Internship - Spring 2028

Shine BrightX LLC; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid sick leave

EAP access

Job summary

Wipfli in Rockford, IL seeks an accounting student to support tax preparation, client information gathering, and data-driven recommendations. This on-site role offers exposure to varied clients and industries while developing professional skills.

You will use accounting software, conduct interviews, and collaborate with staff to deliver accurate tax returns and projections, with opportunities for CPA-track progression.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Accounting, with completion of corporate or individual taxation class required
• Above average accounting knowledge demonstrated by college GPA, preferably 3.0 or higher
• Working towards eligibility to sit for the CPA exam upon graduation
• Preferred coursework in Data Analytics or Big Data
• Ability to think independently and make sound decisions based on education and experience
• Good communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with clients and staff
• Ability to prioritize work, take initiative, follow through on requests, and meet deadlines
• Must be legally authorized to work full-time in the United States without sponsorship

Responsibilities

• Respond to client and firm requests promptly and professionally
• Gather information from clients for document completion
• Use data analysis to identify useful information and support recommendations
• Identify opportunities to improve processes and efficiency
• Prepare tax returns and projections for individuals, businesses, and fiduciaries
• Use accounting software effectively
• Research tax issues and financial reports
• Conduct limited tax return interviews as needed
• Work independently and in teams to support client engagements
• Gain exposure to diverse clients and industries

Skills

Data analysis

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Time management

Education

Accounting degree (Bachelor’s/Master’s)

CPA exam eligibility

GPA ≥ 3.0

Data Analytics coursework

Big Data coursework

Tools

Accounting software

Job description

Your Role

Here’s what you will be doing:

• Respond to client and firm associate requests promptly and professionally
• Gather necessary information from clients for document completion
• Use data analysis skills to identify useful information and support recommendations
• Identify process improvement opportunities to enhance efficiency
• Prepare individual, business, and fiduciary tax returns and projections following firm and professional standards
• Use current tax and accounting software applications effectively
• Research tax-related issues and financial reports
• Conduct limited tax return interviews as needed
• Work both independently and as part of a team to support client engagements
• Gain exposure to a variety of clients and industries, from small businesses to large corporations

About You

The company is looking for:

• Pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Accounting, with completion of corporate or individual taxation class required
• Above average accounting knowledge demonstrated by college GPA, preferably 3.0 or higher
• Working towards eligibility to sit for the CPA exam upon graduation
• Preferred coursework in Data Analytics or Big Data
• Ability to think independently and make sound decisions based on education and experience
• Good communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with clients and staff
• Ability to prioritize work, take initiative, follow through on requests, and meet deadlines
• Must be legally authorized to work full-time in the United States without sponsorship

Compensation & Benefits

• Estimated base pay rate of $28.50 per hour, with actual salary depending on location, skills, experience, education, and other factors
• Paid sick leave
• Access to free, confidential counseling through the Employee Assistance Program

Additional Details

• This role requires an in-person work arrangement, with associates regularly working five days a week in a Wipfli office or at client sites
• Scheduled meetings at client sites and offices require in-person attendance
• Wipfli is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to fair consideration regardless of protected characteristics
• Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities upon request