What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Accountant - Tax & Accounting position at 81 North?
Staff Accountant – Tax & Accounting
About the Opportunity
Our client, an established CPA and advisory firm in Northern New Jersey, is seeking Staff Accountants to join its team. This opportunity offers hands-on experience across tax preparation, general accounting, financial reporting, and attestation services.
We're looking for accounting professionals who enjoy variety, are eager to learn, and want to continue developing their skills in a collaborative, client-focused environment.
Responsibilities
- Prepare individual and business tax returns, including Forms 1040, 1065, and 1120-S.
- Review client books and financial records for accuracy and completeness.
- Perform general ledger reconciliations and prepare journal entries.
- Assist with financial statement preparation and reporting.
- Prepare tax workpapers and supporting schedules.
- Assist with audit, review, compilation, and other attestation engagements, based on experience.
- Communicate with clients to gather information and resolve accounting questions.
- Manage multiple client assignments and meet filing deadlines.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field preferred.
- 1–4 years of accounting experience, preferably in a CPA or public accounting firm.
- Experience preparing individual and/or business tax returns strongly preferred.
- Exposure to audit, review, compilation, or other attestation engagements is a plus.
- Strong understanding of accounting principles and financial statements.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel; QuickBooks experience preferred.
- Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently, take initiative, and learn quickly.
- Willingness to work additional hours during tax season and critical filing deadlines.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for someone who brings a solid accounting foundation, a willingness to learn, and a strong work ethic. The ideal candidate is dependable, adaptable, comfortable asking questions, and able to manage the demands of a busy CPA firm.
Candidates with strengths in tax preparation, general accounting, or attestation are encouraged to apply, as our client is open to complementary skill sets across its team.