Tax Associate II - Seasonal

Title:

Tax Associate II (Seasonal)

Reports to:

Tax Performance Manager

Location:

Columbia/Mexico, MO;
St. Louis, MO - In‑Office preferred;
Hybrid Eligible

At Paul Hood, we are transforming the mid‑market CPA industry with an entirely new model. Our year‑round membership model provides clients with expert tax and financial guidance, helping them feel more secure and realize their long‑term financial goals. Founded 30 years ago by Paul Hood, our company has grown rapidly and now serves over 15,000 customers nationwide. To support our continued growth, we have completely modernized our business with technology and processes more akin to a SaaS company than a CPA firm.

We’re looking for individuals to assist us from January 2026 through April 15, 2026. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in individual and business tax preparation, financial document review, tax software systems, identifying areas of concern during review, and working collaboratively in a deadline‑driven environment.

To do this well, you’ll need to be detail‑oriented, logical, and confident navigating complex and high‑volume work with professionalism. You’ll also need strong judgment, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to continuous learning and ethical practice. You should thrive in a team‑based setting and be eager to support our mission of delivering exceptional client service at scale.

• Prepare accurate and timely tax returns for individuals and small businesses using firm systems and tax software.
• Review and verify financial records submitted by clients for completeness and accuracy.
• Identify potential areas of concern within tax returns and relay issues to the reviewer or client.
• Complete simple business tax returns independently and begin working on more complex returns under supervision.
• Monitor tax queues and ensure deadlines are consistently met.
• Act as a representative for clients with applicable tax agencies, as needed.
• Communicate professionally with clients to explain processes and request missing documents.
• Identify and flag missing information required to complete filings.
• Demonstrate logical thinking when entering tax information and recognize when to elevate questions.
• Complete all required internal tax training courses as part of professional development.
• Accurately enter time, tax return details, and checklists into firm systems.
• Maintain a billable percentage of 75% each quarter.
• Support knowledge‑sharing and process improvement within the team.
• Conduct client‑facing tax planning meetings.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• At least two years of relevant experience in tax preparation or related accounting roles required.
• Experience working with tax software and managing sensitive client data required.
• Associate degree or formal tax preparation training highly preferred.
• Spanish language competency is a bonus.

• You demonstrate foundational and developing knowledge of both individual and business tax preparation.
• You are confident preparing returns, identifying red flags, and asking for help when needed.
• You excel at organizing, reviewing, and verifying complex financial data.
• You’re proactive, reliable, and able to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• You are tech‑savvy and eager to master new tools and platforms.
• You remain calm under pressure and maintain professionalism with clients and teammates.
• You understand the importance of confidentiality, ethical behavior, and quality service.
• You contribute positively to a collaborative, client‑focused team culture.

In the past, some seasonal team members have gone on to find long‑term opportunities on our team at the end of the seasonal project. While this can’t be guaranteed and depends on business needs at the time, we’re always happy to consider seasonal team members for any opportunities that may arise.

Whether with us short‑term or long‑term, you will join a forward‑thinking team that is reshaping the future of the tax and accounting industry. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, our gender‑balanced leadership group…