About Careertakes

👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Tax, Accounting & Advisory.

Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.

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Role Overview

Confidential Client is hiring a Tax Associate to prepare tax returns, research technical issues, and build strong tax practice fundamentals. This is an early-career to junior-level role (0–3 years experience) with structured mentorship from senior practitioners, a hybrid schedule, and clear paths for advancement. The position is based in Santa Cruz, CA with additional hybrid work out of Pleasanton or Cupertino.

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What You’ll Do

• Prepare federal, state, and local tax returns for individuals, corporations, partnerships, and other entity types.
• Gather, organize, and validate client financial information; identify missing items proactively.
• Build clear workpapers, schedules, and documentation that others can follow.
• Meet filing deadlines for returns and extensions; manage multiple engagements concurrently.
• Research federal, state, and local tax issues and document authoritative sources.
• Track changes in tax law and apply updates to client engagements.
• Maintain client files and documentation to standards that hold up under review or audit.
• Respond professionally to client questions and notices; escalate appropriately.
• Use internal training and feedback to continuously improve technical skills and team processes.

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Core Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
• 0–3 years of experience in tax, accounting, or a related field.
• Working understanding of federal, state, and local tax laws and regulations.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple returns at different stages.
• Willingness to ask the right questions and pursue clear answers.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills for client and team interactions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word.

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Helpful (but not required)

• Actively pursuing CPA licensure or EA credential.
• Internship or entry-level experience at a public accounting firm or in an accounting department.
• Familiarity with professional tax software (UltraTax, Axcess Tax, Drake, Lacerte, or similar).
• Strong tax research skills and the ability to interpret regulations.

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Work Environment & Schedule

• Hybrid: primarily based in Santa Cruz with possible work days in Cupertino or Pleasanton — typically 3 days/week onsite.
• Extended hours during peak tax season and as needed to meet client deadlines.
• Occasional travel for client meetings or practice events.
• Mentor-driven reviews and frequent, specific feedback to accelerate technical development.

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Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $70,000 - $95,000 per year.
• Benefits include: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with match, Basic Life insurance, and Long-Term Disability (LTD).

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Why Join

Confidential Client combines technology-enabled workflows with deep technical coaching. Proprietary tools reduce routine tasks so you can focus on technical development and client service. You’ll receive direct feedback from senior practitioners and opportunities for performance-based growth and increased responsibility.

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Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency

Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.

If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.