Reference #: 822
Job Summary:
The Senior Associate, STS SALT, applies industry knowledge and experience to clients by assisting in providing advice related to tax implications of their business objectives, recommend alternate courses of action, as well as identify different methods of complying with tax regulations. Additional responsibilities include applying knowledge to understand potential tax issues, evaluate and select alternative actions to lessen tax burden and cost of compliance, recognize and communicate potential risks, identify potential changes in the tax policy and apply new policies to tax compliance and assist in handling routine questions from federal or state agencies. This role also serves as primary contact for the clients, as needed, including but not limited to preparing and presenting presentations to clients and potential clients.Job Duties:
Research:
Identifies when research is needed; frames issues to be researched; identifies sources of all information including information tending to contradict preferred positions, analyzes facts and authorities, and reports the analysis
Demonstrates an in-depth level of understanding of various tax authorities
Applies firm and professional standards for preparation of WTA and tax returns
Develops and maintains relationships with in-state and out-of-state Department of Tax (DOT)/Department of Revenue (DOR) personnel
Tax Compliance:
Ensures clients comply with all applicable authorities, while at the same time minimizing their tax and reporting burdens
Tracks availability and filing requirements regarding client-related information
Applies tax compliance knowledge with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency
Utilizes knowledge of preparation and issues to price services and sell related services
Develops service in accordance with SOX rulings
Ensures tax engagement letters are adopted prior to engagement work commencing and manages engagements
Conducts detailed review of tax returns, and identifies basic, complex and advanced issues throughout the engagement
Communicates with clients to gather information when applicable
Prepares and reviews taxability matrices for client transactions assuring timely review and accuracy of returns
Tax Consulting:
Develops, recommends, and implements methods to maximize client benefits, especially by decreasing clients' current and future taxes
Considers the applicability of all state tax consulting sub-specialties for each client, conferring with other STS consultants, when appropriate
Interprets existing and new law and client facts to maximize benefits
Involves other state tax sub-specialty subject matter experts, when appropriate
Applies workplans for tax consulting projects performed for clients
Ensures client service teams comply with firm policy regarding WTA checklist
Develops consultative selling skills
Provides assistance with exam support
Assists in managing client expectations
Informs Core Tax Services leadership of state tax opportunities for clients
Tax Controversy:
Reviews assessment notices
Monitors client expectations regarding issues of controversy
Handles routine questions from federal or state agencies with assistance
Tax Related Software:
Utilizes GoSystems, tax research databases and other tax-related software in the completion of assigned tasks
Trains staff on all current software tools
Tax Specialization:
Develops an in-depth understanding of the technical and practical issues and opportunities regarding one or more areas of taxation
Manages specialization services efficiently
Involves and works with firm specialists when client and proposal work relates to areas in which the firm has specialists
Organizes and conducts internal CPE training sessions in area of specialization
Accounting for Income Taxes - SFAS109:
Reviews basic tax provisions
ASC740-10:
Applies firm policies, standards and BDO Tax Quality Manual regarding FAS 109 and FIN 48
Assists others in lea ning and applying FAS 109 and FIN 48
Reviews tax provisions
Communicates with Assurance counterparts to timely plan tax accrual reviews
Strategy Development:
Introduces and develops new or improved ideas to advance the position of clients, the firm, or firm personnel by reducing taxes or expenses or providing non-tax benefits.
Reviews studies of tax implications and offers client alternative courses of action
Assists with research of potential tax strategies as well as implementation
Understands documentation associated with tax strategies
Identifies and leverages lesions learned on prior projects and offers input on how to improve
Suggests marketing approaches for new ideas
Discusses simple tax strategies with client
Builds client relationships, marketing, networking and business development
Provides technical client service to multi-state companies with state and local income/franchise tax issues including research, planning, and controversy work
Assists multi-state companies with state and local income/franchise tax planning, consulting, negotiation of settlements, voluntary disclosure agreements and state income/franchise tax audit representation (i.e., protests, refund claims and appeals)
Makes high-level decisions regarding filing and preparation, and handles questions from federal and state agencies
Economically and productively manages projects including billing and accounts receivable responsibilities
Educates and advises professionals regarding state and local tax law as well as developing their careers
Other duties as required
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Supervises work assignments of STS SALT Associates, as appropriate
Provides periodic performance feedback to and participates in the annual performance evaluation for STS SALT Associates, as appropriate
Acts as a mentor to and assists in the professional development of STS SALT Associates, as appropriateQualifications, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Education:
Bachelors degree ,required
Masters degree in Accounting/Taxation or J.D., preferred
Experience:
Two (2) or more years state and local/multistate experience, required
License/Certifications:
CPA certification or other relevant certification, preferred
Software:
Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel and Word, preferred
Ability to use standard tax applications and research tools, preferred
Language:
N/A
Other Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Strong analytical and research skills
Solid organizational skills
Ability to meet project deadlines with a focus on details
Ability to successfully multi-task while working independently or within a group environment
Capable of building and maintaining strong relationships with internal and client personnel
Advanced knowledge of all tax return forms
Excellent people development and delegation skills
Ability to encourage a team environment on engagements
Executive presence and ability to act as primary contact on assigned engagements
Basic understanding of tax compliance
Ability to successfully interact with professionals at all levels
Working knowledge of appropriate application of tax standards to ensure effective and efficient delivery of tax services
Working knowledge of sources of relevant information utilized in tax filings
Working knowledge and understanding o
