What are the responsibilities and job description for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program Aide position at Westmoreland Community Action?
Our Community and Economic Development team is seeking a seasonal Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program Aide. As VITA Program Aide, you will implement the VITA action plan during this tax season to offer free assistance to low-to-moderate-income people who cannot prepare their own tax returns. You will accomplish this by:
- Supervising volunteer tax preparers to ensure compliance with IRS and Westmoreland Community Action security guidelines;
- Creating and implement a targeted recruitment action plan to attract potential volunteers for the VITA program;
- Ensuring all volunteers responsible for answering tax law questions, teaching tax law, preparing or correcting tax returns, and conducting quality reviews are appropriately certified according to IRS standards;
- Overseeing the use of the IRS-approved Intake and Interview Process, ensuring that each taxpayer is properly interviewed using the correct IRS Intake & Interview Sheet for every return prepared; and
- Developing and implementing a Volunteer Recognition Program to acknowledge and appreciate the contributions of VITA volunteers.
This position will work no more that 30 hours per week while in season. The season is expected to end by the beginning of April. The needs of the program dictate the length of of the season, however.
Westmoreland Community Action (WCA) is a non-profit organization that works to connect individuals and families to opportunities and resources throughout the community to improve their quality of life and help to reduce poverty in the community. This is accomplished through housing, counseling, support, education, intervention, collaborations, partnerships, information, referrals, and networking.
Requirements- High School Diploma or GED required. Additional training or certifications in accounting, financial literacy, or tax preparation preferred.
- Must obtain IRS Advanced Certification (training provided as needed).
- Preferred knowledge of issues facing low-income populations and familiarity with programs that promote self-sufficiency.
- Ability to engage with volunteers, stakeholders, community partners, and the public in a supportive and professional manner.
- Basic research skills and computer proficiency, including competency in MS Word and MS Excel.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends, as required.
- Must have or be able to obtain Act 33, 34, 114, and sex offender registry clearances.
You will be entitled to mileage reimbursement.
Westmoreland Community Action (WCA) is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce that reflects our community and those that we seek to serve. If you, in good faith, believe that you are qualified to succeed in this position, we encourage you to apply. Please include a cover letter to tell us about your unique qualifications for the position. Our hiring manager will review your application and, if interested, will contact you regarding next steps.
* REQUIREMENTS NECESSARY TO SAFELY PERFORM THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION OF VITA PROGRAM AIDE:
Mobility: Ability to move around the site to oversee operations, interact with volunteers and clients, and manage paperwork or technology.
Sitting/Standing: Prolonged periods of sitting or standing while managing the site, conducting meetings, or providing assistance to volunteers and taxpayers.
Lifting: Capability to lift and carry materials related to tax preparation, such as files, boxes of documents, or promotional materials, typically weighing up to 25 pounds.
Visual Acuity: Ability to read documents, tax forms, and IRS materials, as well as monitor the quality of tax returns and ensure compliance with guidelines.
Dexterity: Proficiency in using a computer for data entry, document management, and communication, requiring fine motor skills for typing and using a mouse.
Communication: Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, requiring clear speech and auditory skills for interactions with volunteers and clients.
Driving: Ability to operate a motor vehicle safely to attend outreach events, recruit volunteers, and manage site operations at different locations.
Flexibility: Willingness to adapt to various physical settings and conditions, such as different community locations or varying workspace arrangements.
