Public Tax Accountant

Position: Public Staff Tax Accountant
Description

We are looking for a Public Staff Tax Accountant to join a client-facing accounting team in Kankakee, Illinois. This contract-to-permanent opportunity is well suited for an accounting specialist who can manage tax and audit assignments with limited oversight while exercising sound judgment on routine engagement matters. The position offers the chance to support a variety of client needs, strengthen technical expertise, and collaborate closely with managers and partners to deliver accurate, high-quality work.

Responsibilities:

- Prepare individual and corporate tax returns accurately and on schedule, taking ownership of assigned engagements from initial review through completion.

- Support audit engagements by organizing fieldwork, coordinating key phases of the process, and helping ensure work is completed in line with industry standards.

- Evaluate accounting, tax, and audit issues encountered during engagements and elevate significant matters to the engagement manager or partner with clear supporting details.

- Apply firm policies, procedures, and regulatory guidance consistently across client assignments to maintain quality and compliance.

- Conduct tax, accounting, and audit research using appropriate reference materials to resolve questions and support engagement conclusions.

- Use Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, engagement management tools, tax preparation applications, and time and billing software to complete work efficiently and document results.

- Contribute to strong client service by communicating effectively, responding to requests, and building trust through dependable execution.

- Assist in overseeing segments of engagements by coordinating tasks, tracking progress, and supporting less experienced team members when needed.

The salary range for this position is $34/hr. to $35/hr benefits available to contract/temporary professionals, include medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit  for more information.

Requirements - At least 2 years of experience in public accounting as a Staff Accountant or in a closely related role.

- Bachelor's degree required, with a minimum of 30 college-level credit hours in accounting.

- Hands-on experience preparing individual and corporate tax returns.

- Working knowledge of tax preparation, public accounting practices, and audit procedures.

- Ability to handle client engagements with limited supervision and make sound decisions on routine technical matters.

- Strong research skills in accounting, tax, and auditing, with the ability to identify and use relevant reference sources.

- Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and accounting or tax software used in practice.

- Progress toward CPA certification is preferred.

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All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit  for more information.

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