Tax Associate, State and Local Tax - Winter 2027 (Cleveland)

Job Summary

The SALT Associate will be responsible for basic research and analysis of state and local tax (SALT) issues, along with utilization of tax software in the completion of basic tax returns and other tax filings and documents. In this role, the Tax Associate, State and Local Taxation will have the opportunity to utilize their educational background while working side-by-side with more experienced Tax members who will provide direction and coaching related a range of state and local tax laws and resources.

Job Duties

Research

Identifies simple situations when research is necessary providing an outline of the issue(s) and the appropriate source of research to be conducted

Analyzes researched facts and the sources utilized prior to composing a detailed report of the research findings

Prepares WTA and tax returns as appropriate

Tax Compliance

Participates in the preparation, filing and completion of voluntary disclosure agreements for sales and use tax; income tax and unclaimed property

Drafts tax memorandums, tax opinions and other documentation on various tax issues

Assists in the drafting of responses to notices from state taxing authorities

Prepares modeling for tax and unclaimed property exposure analysis

Participates in the audit defense of client returns and tax positions

Ensures all data needed to comply with filing requirements is obtained and identifies missing items to need for preparation of assigned tax returns

Monitors current tax law changes and applies appropriately to the preparation of assigned tax returns

Manages collection and retention of all appropriate workpapers for assigned clients

Tax Consulting

Develops, recommends and implements standard tax methods to provide clients with maximum tax benefits related to current and future tax obligations

Utilizes online research tools, prior tax returns, interviews with client personnel and other resources to gather pertinent tax information related to assigned clients

Continues building tax knowledge by monitoring relevant tax laws and educating oneself on firm tax strategies and Tax Planning Ideas (TPIs)

Tax Related Software

Utilizes Caseware, GoSystems, tax research databases and other tax-related software in the completion of assigned tasks

Tax Specialization

Develops an in-depth understanding of the technical and practical issues and opportunities regarding SALT tax benefits

ASC740-10

Understands and applies industry standards, along with firm policies and BDO Tax Quality Manual requirements as they relate to FAS 109 and FIN48, as well as FAS5 for sales tax and unclaimed properties

Strategy Development

Assists in the preparation of studies of tax implications to identify alternative courses of actions to benefits clients

Develops an understanding of the impact of a client’s business objectives as it relates to the client’s tax situation

Other duties as required

Supervisory Responsibilities

• N/A

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Education

• Bachelors degree required; focus in Accounting, preferred
• Masters degree in Accounting/Taxation or J.D., preferred

Experience

• Prior internship or other work experience within an accounting setting or public accounting, preferred

License/Certifications

Eligible to sit for the CPA exams; progress towards admission to practice in a U.S. jurisdiction; progress towards Internal Revenue Service Enrolled Agent (“EA”) (or progress towards the equivalent of one of these designations) upon starting employment, preferred

Software

• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word, Excel and PowerPoint, required

Language

• N/A

Other Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Strong analytical and basic research skills

Solid organizational skills especially ability to meet project deadlines with a focus on details

Ability to successfully multi-task while working independently or within a group environment

Proven ability to work in a deadline-driven environment and handle multiple projects simultaneously

Ability to prepare simple tax returns

Basic knowledge of appropriate application of tax standards to ensure effective and efficient delivery of tax services

Basic knowledge of sources of relevant information utilized in tax filings as well as the most widely-used filing forms and awareness of other less widely used forms

Basic knowledge and understanding of cause / effect for taxable conditions on clients and the potential tax issues

Basic knowledge of accounting theory, filing methodologies, and frequencies for sales tax returns

Individual salaries that are offered to a candidate are determined after consideration of numerous factors including but not limited to the candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and geography.

• California Range: $85,000 - $120,000
• Colorado Range: $78,000 - $120,000
• Illinois Range: $80,000 - $100,000
• Maryland Range: $85,000 - $100,000
• Massachusetts Range: $85,000 - $120,000
• Minnesota Range: $72,000 - $100,000
• New Jersey Range: $80,000 - $100,000
• NYC/Long Island/Westchester Range: $85,000 - $120,000
• Ohio Range: $71,000 - $75,000

Virginia Range: $83,000 - $87,000

Washington Range: $78,000 - $120,000

Washington DC Range: $85,000 - $100,000

At BDO, how we show up matters. We build strong relationships by supporting one another, our clients, and our communities with care, curiosity, and a commitment to helping one another grow and succeed. Here, you’ll find meaningful work, leaders invested in your success, and opportunities to build a career around what matters most to you.

Our purpose is to be the people our clients count on to grow with confidence and achieve what matters most. Our values guide how we bring that purpose to life each day. Together, they shape how we work with one another, serve our clients, and create meaningful impact.

BDO provides assurance, tax, and advisory services to clients across the U.S. and around the world. No matter your role, you’ll be part of a team helping clients navigate complexity and move forward with clarity.

We are proud to be an ESOP company, offering participants a stake in the firm’s success through beneficial ownership and a unique opportunity to enhance their financial well-being. As a qualified retirement plan, the ESOP is a meaningful addition to our comprehensive compensation and Total Rewards benefits* offerings. It also reinforces an ownership mindset that strengthens our connection to one another, our clients, and the future we’re building together.

Learn more about our benefits: BDO Total Rewards encompass more than traditional benefits. Click here to find out more!

*Benefits may be subject to eligibility requirements.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets

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