Tax Examiner 1 - Pass Through Unit

State of Montana • Helena, MT

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Tax Examiner 1 works in the Business & Income Taxes Division of the Montana Department of Revenue, in the Pass Through Unit. The position performs technical-level examinations of assigned tax returns, including researching issues, verifying data, adjusting returns, communicating with taxpayers and their representatives, and participating in the appeals process. The examiner may assist with developing audit programs and procedures, prepare summary reports of audit findings, and testify as an expert witness. The position also supports other tax examiners and provides services to taxpayers and department programs and employees. It does not supervise staff. Tax systems and guidelines are taught on the job.

The work is primarily in an office environment. Some teleworking may be available after training, subject to eligibility and supervisor approval; full-time teleworking is not available. Employees must reside primarily in Montana and report to the assigned Department of Revenue office. Work hours may occasionally exceed 40 hours per week, including weekends, and some travel may be required. Lifting is infrequent and involves less than 15 pounds.

Requirements

• 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.
• 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.
• Required competencies include 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.
• Required skills include 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.
• Personal qualities include self-motivation, a strong work ethic, following instructions, providing timely and accurate customer service, working under pressure, and being open-minded.
• Must be a primary resident of Montana and report to the Department of Revenue office assigned by the supervisor.
• Must meet and sustain Department of Revenue telework eligibility requirements and obtain supervisor approval to participate in the telework program, if teleworking.

Responsibilities

• Conduct technical-level examinations of assigned tax returns.
• Research tax issues, verify data, adjust returns, and communicate with taxpayers and their representatives.
• Participate in the 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 and other department programs and employees.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision care
• Life insurance
• 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
• 12 days of sick leave 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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level