Junior Accounting Manager (CPA/EA)

Kaizen CPAs + Advisors • Antioch, IL

256d • $26

About The Position

At Kaizen CPAs + Advisors, we’re a people-first firm dedicated to helping businesses overcome financial challenges and achieve their goals. With decades of experience, we focus on practical, forward-thinking solutions that put people at the heart of everything we do. Our work is guided by four core values: Own It, Be an Ideal Team Player, Make a Positive Impact, and Embrace a Growth Mindset. As a Junior Accounting Manager, you’ll play a key role in delivering financial expertise to our small business clients, with a primary focus on tax. You’ll prepare personal, partnership, and corporate tax returns, while gaining diverse experience in payroll, bookkeeping, financial statements, compilations, reviews, and more. You'll report to the Account Manager and be part of a collaborative team that values continuous improvement.

Requirements

• CPA or EA certification—or a strong desire to pursue one.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 1–3+ years of relevant experience preferred.
• Confidence working with Outlook, Excel, Word, QuickBooks, and tax software.
• Excellent communicator who thrives on building positive client and team relationships.
• Highly organized and capable of juggling multiple priorities with ease.
• Motivated and adaptable in a fast-paced, ever-evolving environment.
• Sharp time management skills with a strong sense of accountability.
• Long-term interest in moving into an Account Manager role.

Responsibilities

• Work directly with small business clients to guide them toward financial clarity and success.
• Prepare personal, partnership, and corporate tax returns, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Collaborate with clients on tax planning, projections, and inquiries.
• Review financial statements and assist with reviews that drive client confidence.
• Conduct research and support responses to federal and state tax authorities.
• Serve as a key liaison between Staff Accountants and Managers, keeping workflows smooth and communication clear.
• Share your knowledge through internal presentations and take advantage of continuous learning opportunities.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance
• Cafeteria/Section 125 Plan
• Retirement/401(k): Employer match with 100% vesting on day one of eligibility
• Paid Vacation: Starting at 2 weeks, available for use from day one
• Paid Personal Time (PTO): 32 hours available to use from day one
• Paid Holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, the day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve (if it falls during the work week), and Christmas Day

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees