Accounting And Tax Associate

Centacc; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic accounting practice in South Africa is seeking a detail-oriented Accounting & Tax Associate. The successful candidate will support financial reporting, tax compliance, and payroll services for clients, requiring a strong grasp of local tax legislation and accounting standards. Ideal for professionals with experience in handling payroll processing and a proactive approach to client service.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years' experience in accounting and tax, including payroll processing.
• Proficient with IFRS for SMEs, Companies Act, and relevant labour legislation.
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and maintain financial records, draft Annual Financial Statements.
• Process payrolls for multiple clients, ensure compliance with tax regulations.
• Prepare and submit VAT and Income Tax Returns, monitor submission deadlines.

Skills

Attention to detail

Analytical skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree or National Diploma in Accounting, Taxation

Tools

SARS eFiling

EasyFile

Sage Payroll

SimplePay

Job description

Reports To : Group Operation Manager

Job Type : Full-time | On-site

Job Overview :

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Accounting & Tax Associate to join our dynamic South African accounting practice.

The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting with financial reporting, tax compliance, and payroll services for a diverse portfolio of clients.

This role is ideal for a professional with a strong understanding of South African tax legislation and accounting standards, including the ability to manage full-function payroll.

Key Responsibilities :

Accounting Functions :

• Prepare and maintain accurate financial records for clients on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis.
• Draft Annual Financial Statements in compliance with IFRS for SMEs or GAAP (as applicable).
• Reconcile general ledger accounts, bank accounts, and supplier / customer accounts.
• Compile monthly management accounts, budgets, and variance analysis reports.
• Assist with cash flow forecasts and other financial planning support.
• Ensure compliance with the Companies Act, SARS, and other regulatory bodies.
• Maintain accounting records using software such as Xero, Sage, QuickBooks, or similar.

Payroll Processing :

• Process full-function monthly payrolls for multiple clients across various industries.
• Calculate PAYE, UIF, SDL and ensure timely submission of EMP returns via eFiling.
• Prepare and submit bi-annual EMP reconciliations and IRP5 certificates.
• Ensure accurate leave tracking, remuneration adjustments, and statutory deductions.
• Stay updated on the latest labour and payroll legislation (e.g., BCEA, UIF, SARS PAYE regulations).
• Liaise with SARS and the Department of Labour on payroll-related matters.
• Support clients with payroll onboarding and terminations in compliance with HR policies.

Tax Functions :

• Prepare and submit VAT, EMP, and Income Tax Returns (ITR12, ITR14) for individuals and companies.
• Assist with Provisional Tax calculations and IRP6 submissions.
• Handle SARS verifications, disputes, and correspondence.
• Monitor deadlines and ensure all tax submissions are compliant and timely.

Compliance & Client Support :

• Support with CIPC submissions including annual returns, director amendments, and company registrations.
• Communicate proactively with clients regarding deliverables, deadlines, and missing documents.
• Maintain effective client relationships with professional service delivery and timely follow-ups.

Minimum Qualifications :

• Bachelor's Degree or National Diploma in Accounting, Taxation, or a related field.
• Minimum 2 years' experience in an accounting and tax role, including payroll processing.
• Proficient with SARS eFiling, EasyFile, and payroll software (e.g., Sage Payroll, SimplePay).
• Familiarity with IFRS for SMEs, Companies Act, and relevant labour legislation.
• Strong Microsoft Excel and accounting software skills.
• Strong attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple client portfolios and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Discretion, integrity, and professionalism.
• Proactive and solution-oriented mindset.

Preferred Qualifications :

• Working towards or completed SAIPA / SAICA / SAIT articles or registration.
• Experience with cloud-based accounting and payroll platforms.
• Exposure to B-BBEE, advisory services, or audit support is advantageous.