Tax Manager - Construction

Wipfli; Lincolnshire (IL); On-site; USD 113,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health plan options (HMO & PPO)

Dental and vision coverage

HSA with possible firm contribution

401(k) with profit sharing

Job summary

Wipfli, a leading accounting firm, seeks a senior tax professional in Illinois to lead complex tax engagements for construction clients, including entities and individuals. You will oversee multi-state compliance, provide strategic tax planning, and mentor staff to deliver high‑quality work.

The role requires CPA certification, 5+ years in public accounting tax, and strong knowledge of construction accounting and pass-through taxation. Excellent client relations are essential.

Qualifications

• 5+ years public accounting tax experience (construction industry preferred).
• Strong technical knowledge of construction accounting, multi-entity structures, pass-through taxation, long-term contract methods.
• CPA is required for this role.

Responsibilities

• Manage and review complex tax returns for construction clients (partnerships, S-Corps, C-Corps, individuals).
• Oversee federal, state, and multi-state tax compliance for construction clients.
• Provide tax planning guidance around contractor structures and owner/partner implications.
• Identify tax-savings opportunities and proactive advisory services for construction business owners.

Skills

Public accounting tax

Leadership and team development

Client portfolio management

Tax research and analysis

Education

CPA required

Tools

CCH Axcess

ProSystem fx

Job description

At Wipfli, people count.

At Wipfli, our people are core to everything we do—the catalyst behind our ability to create exceptional impact and extraordinary results.

We believe in flexibility. We focus on relationships. We encourage each individual to follow their own path.

People truly matter and they feel it. For those looking to make a difference and find a professional home, Wipfli offers a career-defining opportunity.

Responsibilities

• Manage and review complex tax returns: partnerships, S‑Corps, C‑Corps, individuals — specifically for construction contractors and related entities.
• Oversee federal, state, and multi‑state tax compliance for construction clients.
• Experience with long‑term contract accounting, including percentage‑of‑completion (Sec. 460), job costing, revenue recognition nuances.
• Conduct complex tax research and analyze construction‑specific implications (bonding considerations, state nexus, multi‑entity structures, etc.).
• Provide tax planning guidance around contractor structures, entity selection, and owner/partner tax implications.
• Offer proactive advisory services for construction business owners (cash flow, depreciation strategies, capital planning).
• Identify tax‑savings opportunities, including methods changes and project‑based planning.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for construction clients; build long‑term relationships and provide year‑round strategic advice.
• Communicate effectively with construction executives, bonding companies, and external advisors.
• Supervise, coach, and develop staff; oversee engagement teams.
• Delegate and manage multiple tax engagements simultaneously.
• Ensure work aligns with firm quality standards, deadlines, and client expectations.

Qualifications

• 5+ years public accounting tax experience (most specify construction industry experience).
• Strong technical knowledge of construction accounting, multi‑entity structures, pass‑through taxation, long‑term contract methods
• CPA required.
• Experience reviewing complex returns and managing client portfolios.
• Proven ability to lead teams and support talent development.
• Proficiency in CCH Axcess, ProSystem fx, or similar platforms.

Additional Details

Wipfli is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All candidates will receive consideration for employment without regards to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Wipfli is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, interview, or participate in our recruiting process, please send us an email at [e-mail]

Wipfli values fair, transparent, and competitive compensation, considering each candidate's unique skills and experiences. The estimated base pay range for this role is $113,000 to $170,000, with offers typically not made at the maximum, allowing for future salary increases. The actual salary at the time of offer depends on business related factors like location, skills, experience, training/education, licensure, certifications, business needs, current associate pay, and relevant employment laws.

Individuals may be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, subject to participation rules and based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual and Firm performance.

• 8 health plan options (both HMO & PPO plans)
• dental and vision coverage
• opportunity to enroll in HSA with potential Firm contribution and an Employee Assistance Program
• firm-sponsored basic life and short and long-term disability coverage
• a 401(k) savings plan & profit share as well as Firm matching contribution
• well-being incentive
• education & certification assistance
• flexible time off
• family care leave
• parental leave
• family formation benefits
• cell phone reimbursement
• travel rewards
• critical illness & accident insurance
• hospital indemnity insurance
• legal
• long-term care
• pet insurance
• ID theft protection
• supplemental life/AD&D

"Wipfli" is the brand name under which Wipfli LLP and Wipfli Advisory LLC and its respective subsidiary entities provide professional services. Wipfli LLP and Wipfli Advisory LLC (and its respective subsidiary entities) practice in an alternative practice structure in accordance with the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and applicable law, regulations, and professional standards. Wipfli LLP is a licensed independent CPA firm that provides attest services to its clients, and Wipfli Advisory LLC provides tax and business consulting services to its clients. Wipfli Advisory LLC and its subsidiary entities are not licensed CPA firms.