Tax Manager - Real Estate

Sensiba LLP; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 113,400 - 169,400; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive Health Coverage

401(k) with match

Generous Paid Time Off

Flexible Work Arrangements

Performance-Based Bonus

Tuition reimbursement

Career Growth Opportunities

Job summary

Sensiba LLP is seeking a Tax Manager – Real Estate to lead tax compliance, planning, and consulting engagements for real estate clients. The role requires deep expertise in real estate taxation and involves advising clients on complex tax matters while ensuring compliance with regulations.

The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years in public accounting, a CPA or EA, and the ability to mentor junior staff. Competitive salary and robust benefits are offered, including flexible work arrangements and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5-8+ years of experience in public accounting preparing and reviewing tax returns.
• Strong knowledge of depreciation methods and cost segregation applications.
• Ability to analyze complex tax issues and develop creative, compliant solutions.

Responsibilities

• Lead tax compliance and consulting engagements for real estate clients.
• Develop and implement comprehensive tax strategies for real estate transactions.
• Mentor junior staff through training and career development initiatives.

Skills

Real estate taxation

Tax compliance

Client relationship management

Complex tax analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in accounting or related field

CPA or EA license

Master's degree in accounting, tax, or related field

Tools

Tax preparation software

Microsoft Office

CCH products

Job description

Tax Manager - Real Estate

Department: Tax

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: United States

Reporting To: Anna Baker

Compensation: $113,400 - $169,400 / year

Description

The Tax Manager – Real Estate is responsible for leading tax compliance, planning, and consulting engagements for clients in the real estate sector. This role requires deep technical expertise in real estate taxation, including acquisitions, dispositions, entity structuring, depreciation strategies, 1031 exchanges, cost segregation, and partnership taxation. The Tax Manager will advise clients on complex tax matters, ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations, and provide strategic guidance to optimize tax positions. In addition to client service, the Tax Manager will mentor staff, strengthen internal processes, and contribute to firm-wide initiatives.

*** While this role is open to candidates across the U.S., we have a strong preference for individuals located in the Pacific Northwest or broader West Coast region, given the client base and market alignment. ***

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive tax strategies for real estate transactions, including acquisitions, dispositions, entity structuring, and 1031 exchanges.
• Apply and advise on depreciation strategies (MACRS, bonus depreciation, Section 179,) and conduct or review cost segregation studies to maximize deductions.
• Prepare and review accounting method change filings (Form 3115) related to depreciation, cost segregation, and accrual-to-cash transitions.
• Analyze and advise on passive activity loss rules, material participation tests, and real estate professional status determinations.
• Evaluate capitalization vs. expense treatment of development and operating costs under IRC §263A, ensuring accurate classification of deductible and capitalizable expenses.
• Review and manage preparation of complex tax returns for partnerships, corporations, individuals, and trusts, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.
• Oversee partnership tax compliance, including special allocations, capital accounts, basis tracking, Section 754 elections, and K-2/K-3 reporting.
• Advise on tax treatment of leasehold improvements, tenant allowances, and business interest expense limitations under Section 163(j).
• Identify and apply federal and state tax credits and incentives, including energy-related deductions such as Section 179D. Conduct tax research to support client positions and ensure compliance with current regulations.
• Lead and manage client engagements by implementing high-quality standards, identifying inefficiencies, and enhancing service delivery.
• Mentor junior staff through training, performance feedback, and career development initiatives.
• Build strong client relationships and collaborate with firm leadership on strategic projects and initiatives.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Bachelor's degree in accounting or related field is required
• Minimum of 5-8+ years of experience in public accounting preparing and reviewing tax returns
• Master's degree in accounting, tax, or related field is preferred
• CPA or EA license required
• Proficiency in tax preparation software and financial analysis tools
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Adobe, and accounting software (CCH products; ProSystems and FX Engagement)
• In-depth expertise in real estate taxation, including passive activity rules, real estate professional status, and developer/investor-specific tax rules.
• Strong knowledge of depreciation methods (MACRS, bonus depreciation, Section 179, QIP) and cost segregation applications.
• Familiarity with accounting method changes (Form 3115), capitalization vs. expense rules (IRC §263A), and leasehold improvement treatment.
• Proficiency in partnership taxation, including complex allocations, capital accounts, basis tracking, debt‑financed distributions, Section 754 elections, and K‑2/K‑3 reporting.
• Knowledge of business interest expense limitations under Section 163(j) and energy‑related incentives such as Section 179D.
• Ability to analyze complex tax issues and develop creative, compliant solutions.
• Strong research skills to interpret evolving tax laws and apply them to client‑specific situations.
• Ability to mentor, train, and support the professional growth of junior staff.
• Skilled at building and maintaining strong client relationships, fostering trust and identifying opportunities for growth.
• Collaborative mindset with experience partnering with senior leaders on strategic tax initiatives.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to explain complex tax matters clearly to clients and staff.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple engagements, deadlines, and deliverables simultaneously.

Compensation & Benefits

This role offers a competitive base salary along with a comprehensive benefits package. Salary ranges for U.S.-based positions are determined by geographic location and fall into one of three pay zones, which reflect the cost of labor in that area. The anticipated salary ranges for this position are outlined below and are subject to change:

• $113,400 - $169,400

When determining compensation, we consider a variety of factors such as a candidate’s professional experience, skills, and qualifications. Please note that final offer amounts may vary from the ranges listed above and may be adjusted over time.

Sensiba has a robust offering of benefits, including:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage – Medical, dental, and vision.
• Retirement & Financial Planning Support – 401(k) with match, financial wellness programs.
• Generous Paid Time Off – Vacation, sick time, holidays, parental leave and volunteer days.
• Flexible Work Arrangements – Hybrid or remote options, flexible hours.
• Performance-Based Bonus – Recognition for your contributions through discretionary bonuses.
• Professional Development Opportunities – Tuition reimbursement, certifications, mentorship.
• Career Growth & Internal Mobility – Clear paths for advancement and role transitions.
• Inclusive & Supportive Culture – DEI initiatives, employee resource groups, wellness programs.