What are the responsibilities and job description for the Tax Preparer position at Harrington & Johnson LLC?
About Us
At Harrington & Johnson, our work is more than completing tax returns and financial statements. We help individuals and small businesses understand what needs to be done, stay on track, and have greater peace of mind.
We believe good work begins with strong relationships. Our clients are people we know and care about, and our team takes pride in being dependable, technically strong, and committed to doing the right thing, even when it's not the easiest answer.
We value people who bring a positive attitude, enjoy working with others, and look for smarter and more efficient ways to serve our clients. We work hard, support one another, and still make room for fun along the way.
About the Job
The Tax Preparer is a full-time, on-site position in Natchitoches, LA. A seasonal hybrid schedule may be available. In this role, you will prepare individual and business tax returns while developing a strong understanding of each client's financial situation. You will gather and review supporting documents, identify applicable deductions and credits, and help meet their federal, state, and local filing requirements.
This is a year-round position that goes beyond preparing returns during tax season. You will assist with tax planning, respond to tax notices and questions, maintain organized records, and communicate directly with clients when additional information is needed. You will work independently while collaborating with the rest of the team to meet deadlines, resolve issues, and ensure the work is complete and accurate.
Who We're Looking For
Our team is a good fit for someone who enjoys taking ownership of their work while having the support of others when questions arise. You will do more than complete assigned tasks. You will learn our clients, understand the purpose behind the work, and help make their experience with our firm easier.
We value accuracy and technical knowledge, but we also value communication, sound judgement, and a willingness to keep learning.
The ideal candidate will also have the following qualifications:
- Experience preparing individual and business tax returns in a public accounting or tax practice environment
- Working knowledge of federal and state tax laws, applicable to individuals and small businesses
- Ability to read and interpret financial statements, supporting documents, and other financial data
- Strong analytical skills with excellent attention to detail and accuracy
- Clear and professional written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines, particularly during tax season
- Comfortable working independently while also communicating and collaborating with the team
- Willingness to follow established processes
- Comfortable using Microsoft Outlook, Teams, and Excel, as well as tax preparation and workflow software
- Sound judgement and a high level of discretion when handling confidential client information
- Ability to work full-time and on-site in our Natchitoches office
- Associate's or bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience
- Enrolled Agent or CPA credentials, or progress toward obtaining one, preferred
What We Offer
We believe people do their best work when they are trusted, supported, and able to handle responsibilities both inside and outside of the office. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, paid time off, and reasonable flexibility when life happens. In return, we value clear communication, dependable work, and a shared commitment to meeting deadlines, getting the work right, and taking good care of our clients.
- Compensation Based on Experience: This position may be filled at the Tax Preparer or Senior Tax Preparer level. Significantly higher compensation is available for candidates who can independently handle complex tax work, planning, and review responsibilities.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement Contributions: Employer contribution equal to 3.8% of compensation
- Paid Time Off: 16 days of paid time off each year, in addition to firm holidays
- Family-Friendly Flexibility: Reasonable flexibility for sick children, appointments, family responsibilities, and unexpected needs
- Predictable Schedule: Regular office hours are 8:00am to 5:00pm, with the office closing at 4:00pm on Fridays
- Protected Focus Time: The office closes to the public at 4:00pm each day, allowing the team to finish work without client interruptions
- Professional Development: Firm-paid continuing education, professional license renewals, and other training applicable to the position
- Community Involvement: Firm-paid membership dues and event meals for approved local professional and civic organizations, such as Natchitoches Young Professionals, Lions Club, and Rotary Club