Tax Examiner 1 - Withholding Unit

State of Montana•Helena, MT

11h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Tax Examiner 1 works in the Business & Income Taxes Division of the Montana Department of Revenue, in the Withholding Unit. The position performs technical examinations of assigned tax returns, including researching issues, verifying information, adjusting returns, communicating with taxpayers and their representatives, and participating in the appeal process. The examiner assists in developing audit programs and procedures, drafting summaries of audit findings, and testifying as an expert witness. The role also supports other tax examiners and provides services to taxpayers, department programs, and employees. The position does not supervise staff. Computer systems and tax guidelines are taught on the job. The position is based in an office environment, with some teleworking opportunities after training and with supervisor approval. The successful candidate must be a primary resident of Montana and report to the office assigned by the supervisor; full-time teleworking is not available. Work hours may occasionally exceed 40 hours and include weekends. Lifting is infrequent and involves less than 15 pounds. Some travel may be required.

Requirements

A bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, business administration, or public administration, supplemented by college coursework in accounting or a closely related field, or an individually evaluated equivalent combination of education and experience.
One year of job-related work experience in auditing, tax examination, or accounting practices, or an individually evaluated equivalent combination of education and experience.
A valid driver's license with fewer than 12 conviction points in the most recent completed 36 months.
Must be eligible to work in the United States; the State of Montana does not sponsor.
Must successfully pass Department of Revenue tax and background checks.
Tax status must be current; circumstances involving tax status issues will be reviewed.
Ability to meet and sustain Department of Revenue telework eligibility requirements if participating in the telework program.
Knowledge of tax accounting; auditing standards, principles, and practices; financial analysis; investigative methods and procedures; state and federal tax laws, rules, and regulations; business practices; and computer applications related to taxes and finance.
Skills in research and analysis, cost-benefit analysis, accuracy and attention to detail, mathematics, conflict resolution and customer service, Microsoft programs and other database applications, and written, verbal, and interpersonal communication.
Self-motivation, a strong work ethic, ability to follow instructions, provide timely and accurate customer service, work under pressure, and remain open-minded.

Responsibilities

Conduct technical examinations of assigned tax returns, including research, data verification, and return adjustments.
Communicate with taxpayers and their representatives.
Participate in the tax appeal process.
Assist with developing audit programs and procedures.
Draft summary reports of audit findings.
Testify as an expert witness.
Assist other tax examiners with their responsibilities.
Provide support services to taxpayers, other department programs, and employees.

Benefits

Health, dental, and vision care; life insurance; and long-term disability.
Free health care for employees and eligible family members at Montana Health Centers.
Employee assistance benefits, including counseling, legal assistance, well-being coaching, and financial information.
Retirement plans, with a State contribution of 9.17% and vesting after five years of continuous employment.
Paid vacation starting at 15 days per year.
Sick leave of 12 days per year.
11 holidays, including a floating holiday.
Flexible hours.
Eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
Advancement opportunities throughout the Department of Revenue.