Tax Senior

Kerkering Barberio & Co; Sarasota (FL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

401(k) matching

Bonus based on performance

Flexible schedule

Health insurance

Paid time off

Parental leave

Tuition assistance

Vision insurance

Job summary

A Florida-based accounting firm is looking for a Senior Tax Accountant to specialize in individual taxation. The role involves preparing and reviewing complex individual tax returns, leading staff, and ensuring compliance with IRS regulations. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in accounting, at least 3 years of progressive experience in public accounting, and a preference for CPA certification. The position requires strong critical thinking, communication skills, and proficiency in tax software, offering competitive perks and company benefits.

Qualifications

• 3 years progressive experience in public accounting required.
• Current knowledge of accounting principles and tax regulations is essential.
• CPA preferred for the role.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and review complex individual income tax returns (Form 1040).
• Lead and instruct lower-level personnel on tax assignments.
• Respond to and assist with IRS and state tax notices.

Skills

Critical thinking

Effective verbal and written communication

Organizational skills

Time management

Proficiency with tax software

Education

Bachelor’s in accounting or related field

Tools

Computer tax programs

Spreadsheets

Word processing

Job description

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Bonus based on performance
• Company parties
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Free food & snacks
• Health insurance
• Opportunity for advancement
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Training & development
• Tuition assistance
• Vision insurance

Position Overview

Senior Tax Accountants specializing in individual taxation perform most work assigned with minimal direction, with a primary focus on preparing and reviewing complex individual income tax returns (Form 1040). They support staff and in-charge personnel as client issues arise, particularly in areas related to individual tax matters.

Seniors often lead lower-level personnel, instructing them on work to be performed, reviewing completed returns, and directing necessary revisions. They are expected to make decisions on routine individual tax matters and serve as a resource for more complex 1040-related issues, including multi-state filings, investment income, and pass-through entity reporting.

Performance is evaluated based on quality and accuracy of work, depth of individual tax knowledge, supervision of Staff and In-Charge personnel, ability to meet time and budget constraints, and success in meeting client deadlines.

Essential Functions

• Performs a broad range of individual tax assignments, with a primary focus on complex Form 1040 engagements, minimizing the need for direct involvement from Supervisors, Managers, and Shareholders.
• Demonstrates strong competency in individual tax technical skills, work quality, and application of professional and Firm standards.
• Prepares and reviews complex individual tax returns (Forms 1040), including Schedules A, B, C, D, and E, as well as related disclosures.
• Handles returns involving multi-state filings, K-1 income, investments, stock compensation, and rental activities.
• Meet time and budget constraints and ensures all client deadlines are achieved.
• Participates in planning and scheduling of individual tax engagements, especially during peak tax season.
• Directs, instructs, and trains Staff and In-Charge accountants on 1040 preparation and individual tax concepts.
• Reviews tax returns prepared by staff, provides clear feedback, and minimizes repeat errors.
• Follows review notes, makes corrections as requested, and improves accuracy in future work.
• Responds to and assists with IRS and state tax notices, amended returns, and post-filing activities (e.g., carrybacks, adjustments).
• Collaborates with Supervisors, Managers, and Shareholders to develop and implement individual tax planning strategies.
• Prepares client correspondence related to individual tax matters for review and approval.
• Communicates directly with clients to gather information, explain tax positions, and resolve issues in a professional manner.
• Conducts tax research specific to individual taxation as needed.

Other Functions

• Develops an understanding of and adheres to Firm policies and procedures, including the Firm’s Quality Control document.
• Assumes primary responsibility (under supervision) for individual tax engagements.
• Pursues continuing professional education with an emphasis on individual tax law and planning strategies.
• Maintains current knowledge of IRS regulations, tax law changes, and guidance impacting individual taxpayers.
• Participates in civic, charitable, and professional organizations.
• Meets or exceeds annual productivity goals for chargeable hours, utilization, and realization.
• Begins contributing to practice development, with a focus on building relationships with individual clients and referral sources.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Experience and Skills

• Proficiency with computer tax programs, spreadsheets, and word processing.
• Demonstrates sound critical thinking, professional judgment, and decision-making skills
• Current knowledge of accounting principles and federal, state, and local tax regulations.
• Displays the self-motivation to ask for and successfully complete the types of assignments and special projects that will further increase technical skills, especially if required for a specific area of expertise.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Conducts themselves with integrity in a responsible, professional manner and appearance.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.

Required Education

Bachelor’s in accounting or related field

Required Experience

3 years progressive experience in public accounting

License/Certification

CPA preferred

Working Requirements

• Occasional travel for meeting with clients or to attend seminars or staff meeting using a personal vehicle is likely.
• Out-of-town travel with overnight stay is possible.
• Occasional overtime is expected throughout the year and heavy overtime is required from January through April.

Safety

• Minimal hazards.
• General office working conditions.
• May be required to lift files/boxes in the range of 10-20 pounds.

Equal Opportunity

Kerkering, Barberio & Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.

We respect each of our employees’ unique abilities and are committed to offering an environment that does not tolerate discrimination or harassment based off any of these characteristics.