Senior Tax Accountant (Finance)

Role Title: Senior Tax Accountant
Department/Team: Tax & Accounting
Reports To: Managing Partner
Status: Full-Time, Exempt
Location: On-site (Frankfort, IL 60423)
About Cornerstone Tax Service
Cornerstone Tax Service, Inc. is a full service tax and accounting firm in Frankfort, IL. We are a team of tax and accounting professionals that provide our clients with the same high standards, specialization, and service that we expect of ourselves.

This role exists to provide expert tax preparation and strategic tax planning services to a diverse client base by ensuring accurate, compliant tax filings and proactive tax strategies so that clients optimize their tax positions while maintaining full regulatory compliance.

Prepare and review tax returns for individuals, partnerships, corporations, trusts, and non-profits
Review, organize, and scan client documents
Conduct tax research and provide guidance on tax planning strategies
Assist with general ledger accounting and financial statement preparation
Perform general ledger reconciliation and balance sheet reconciliation
Review of client-prepared financial statements for accuracy
Prepare regulatory reports and ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations
Collaborate with clients to gather necessary financial information for tax filings
Provide support during tax audits and respond to inquiries from tax authorities
Assist in the development and implementation of tax planning strategies for clients
Stay updated on changes in tax laws and regulations to ensure compliance
How performance will be measured:
Number of tax returns completed accurately per season (target range based on complexity mix)
Tax filing accuracy rate (target: Billable hours utilization rate during tax season
Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field
CPA certification is highly preferred; Minimum of 7-10+ years of experience in individual and corporate tax preparation
Accounting experience: Strong knowledge of general ledger accounting principles and practices
Proficient in QuickBooks software (both desktop and online)
Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Office Suite

Preferred Skills & Bonus Qualifications
What helps you excel (not required):
Proficient in UltraTax tax preparation software
Prior public accounting or CPA firm experience
Experience mentoring or training junior staff
Advanced tax planning coursework or specialized certifications
Embraces continuous learning and stays current with evolving tax laws
Shows initiative in identifying tax-saving opportunities for clients
QuickBooks Desktop and Online
UltraTax or similar tax preparation software
Planner or other tax projection software
Practice or other CRM system
SafeSend or other client portal and document exchange
Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook)
Document management and scanning systems
Electronic filing platforms (e.g., Online tax research databases
Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm
Tax Season (January 15 - April 15):
Saturday work during peak periods (February-April)
Training & Onboarding
Days 1-30: Orientation to firm systems, software training, client file review processes, and firm standards
Shadow senior team members, begin preparing simpler returns under supervision
Transition to full client load with periodic quality reviews
Required continuing education credits as mandated by CPA/EA license requirements
Advancement opportunities to Senior Tax Manager
Potential to specialize in specific tax niches (trusts, corporate, nonprofit)
Performance reviews conducted annually with mid-year check-ins
Ability to sit at a desk and work on a computer for extended periods
Occasional lifting of file boxes and documents (up to 25 lbs)
Retirement plan
~ Continuing education credits
~ Health Insurance
~ Mileage reimbursement for job-related expenses
Application Questions
Please address the following in your Cover letter submitted as a part of your application:
Have you ever prepared taxes in person with a client present?

How many tax returns did you prepare last season, and what was the complexity mix (individual vs. What aspect of tax work energizes you most, and what type of work environment helps you thrive?