Tax Manager

About the Firm

An independent CPA firm that has served closely held businesses, high-net-worth individuals and families, and not-for-profit organizations from the western Chicago suburbs for over 100 years. The firm has never sold or merged into a larger practice and has no plans to do so. It takes a consultative, relationship-driven approach rather than a high-volume compliance model.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Tax Manager to join an established, independent public accounting firm in the western Chicago suburbs. This person will review and prepare income tax returns for closely held businesses and their owners, working directly with clients as a trusted advisor while helping develop less experienced staff. There is a genuine path to partnership for the right person — not just a bigger title.

Responsibilities

• Review and/or prepare income tax returns for closely held businesses (S corporations, C corporations, and partnerships) and individuals
• Serve as a direct point of contact for clients on tax matters throughout the year
• Mentor and help develop less experienced tax staff
• Stay current on federal and Illinois tax law affecting closely held businesses and individuals
• Contribute to both compliance and consulting-side work as needed

Qualifications

• At least 8 years of public accounting experience preparing/reviewing income tax returns, with recent (2023 or later) public accounting experience
• Strong working knowledge of federal tax law for C corporations, S corporations, partnerships, and individuals
• CPA license or EA credential preferred, not required
• Comfort working across both tax compliance/consulting and, ideally, assurance/audit engagements
• Experience with complex trusts and estates a plus, not required
• Must already reside in the Chicagoland area — relocation assistance and visa sponsorship are not available
• Comfortable with a seasonal workload of 55+ hours/week during busy periods (January–April 15 and August–October 15), including some Saturdays

Pay and Benefits

• Pay range and compensation package: Base salary in the $120,000–$175,000 range, open to negotiation based on experience
• Overtime bonus structure based on annual billable hours
• Lifetime 15% commission on new business brought into the firm
• 9% discretionary profit-sharing contribution to 401(k), delivered consistently for 20+ years
• Full health, dental, and vision coverage; life and disability insurance
• Paid vacation and paid overtime/comp time
• Hybrid scheduling available outside of busy season after an initial onboarding period

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to diversity and inclusivity in our hiring practices and workplace culture.