What are the responsibilities and job description for the Operations Associate position at Hutchinson & Walter, CPAs?
No Third‑Party Recruiters
Please be advised that the firm is not engaging, nor will it engage any third‑party recruiters, staffing agencies, or external placement services for this position. All recruitment activities are being managed internally. Unsolicited outreach, candidate submissions, or agency‑initiated communications will not be considered and will not establish any contractual or financial obligations on behalf of the firm.
**We welcome applicants of all abilities and provide reasonable accommodations throughout the hiring process. We also value diversity and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and experience. Even if you do not meet 100% of the requirements, we encourage you to apply!**
At this time, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the Unites States without the need for current or future sponsorship.
About Us
Hutchinson & Walter is a CPA firm based in Bellevue, WA. Originally founded in 1977, we are now one of the fastest growing private companies (PSBJ 2025). We are a 100% women‑ and minority‑owned, employee‑owned CPA firm that helps clients make confident, tax‑smart decisions—delivering exceptional federal and state tax preparation, and specialized expertise in complex planning (high‑level tax strategy, estate and trust, wealth, and M&A).
We believe in taking care of our employees, and in return they take care of the business. We offer a robust benefits and PTO package, always have a fully stocked kitchen and cater lunches twice a week during peak season.
We are growing and looking for a detail‑oriented, tech‑savvy Operations Associate to join our team. This role is ideal for someone who loves clean books, thrives in a professional environment, and enjoys supporting a team of CPAs and tax professionals.
Why You Should Apply
Our vision is to be the forever‑home for the best CPAs: a place where diverse talent grows into ownership, complex work is mastered, and our clients and communities are measurably better for trusting us.
We’re looking for someone who is passionate about business tax, values collaboration and is excited about the opportunity to use their experience to help grow our business. We welcome the quirky, those who bring their authentic self to work, who want to make an impact. If you’re someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys problem-solving, this could be the perfect role for you!
Employer: HUTCHINSON & WALTER CPAs
Job Title: Operations Associate
FLSA Status: Non‑exempt
Reports To: Operations Manager
Location: Bellevue, WA (hybrid)
Compensation: $25-35/hour
Position Summary
The Operations Associate supports the day‑to‑day business operations of HUTCHINSON & WALTER CPAs, including administrative support, coordination of internal processes, client service support, and basic office management functions. This role helps ensure that the firm’s workflows, client engagements, and internal systems operate efficiently and in compliance with firm policies and applicable regulations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Operational Support
- Maintain and update internal tracking systems, logs, and dashboards for client engagements, deadlines, and deliverables.
- Support implementation and maintenance of firm processes, workflows, and standard operating procedures.
- Coordinate physical and electronic filing of records, including secure storage, retention, and timely destruction consistent with firm policies.
Client Service Support
- Serve as an initial point of contact for client inquiries by phone and in person; route issues to appropriate team members.
- Assist with onboarding new clients, including collection of required documentation and setting up client profiles in firm systems.
- Support engagement letter preparation and tracking under the supervision of licensed professionals.
- Assist with gathering, tracking, and organizing client information and documentation received via secure channels.
Administrative and Office Management
- Perform general administrative tasks, including copying, scanning, mail handling, and supply ordering.
- Support vendor management activities, such as maintaining vendor records, and monitoring service levels.
- Assist with coordinating office maintenance, equipment servicing, and facility access needs.
- Open the office and prepare it for client reception.
- Alternate restocking and cleaning of kitchen, conference rooms, etc.
Data, Systems, and Compliance Support
- Enter and maintain accurate data in practice management, document management, CRM, and time‑tracking systems.
- Generate routine reports on operational metrics, workload, and deadlines as requested.
- Follow firm policies and procedures for information security, confidentiality, and data protection.
- Assist with internal checklists and controls relating to document retention, security, and compliance with firm standards.
Other Duties
- Perform other related duties as assigned that are consistent with the role’s overall purpose and the employee’s skills and abilities.
- Participate in ongoing training related to firm systems, processes, confidentiality obligations, and client service practices.
Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, or related field preferred.
- Prior experience in an administrative, operations, or office support role preferred; experience in a professional services or accounting/tax environment is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office or Google Workspace and comfortable learning new software (e.g., practice management, CRM, document management tools).
- Effective written and verbal communication skills, including professional phone and email etiquette.
- Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team‑oriented environment.
- Strong problem‑solving skills and willingness to improve processes.
Physical and Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for extended periods while working at a computer.
- Ability to operate standard office equipment (computer, phone, copier, scanner).
- Occasionally move items up to 20 pounds (e.g., files, office supplies).
- Work is generally performed in a professional office environment, with routine use of computers and phones.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position, in accordance with applicable law.
Schedule and Work Hours
- Full-time
- Typical schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., with occasional overtime during peak seasons.
- Some flexibility in hours may be required to meet client or business needs.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
HUTCHINSON & WALTER CPAS is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in the application and employment process, consistent with applicable law.
Salary : $25 - $35