Tax Examiner 1 - Natural Resources, Federal Royalty Program

State of Montana • Helena, MT

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Tax Examiner 1 position is in the Montana Department of Revenue’s Business and Income Taxes Division, within Natural Resource and Business Taxes and Fees. The role performs technical examinations of assigned tax returns, including research, data verification, return adjustments, communication with taxpayers and their representatives, and participation in the appeal process. The examiner assists with developing audit programs and procedures, prepares summary reports of audit findings, may testify as an expert witness, and supports other tax examiners, taxpayers, and department programs and employees. The position does not supervise staff. Computer systems and tax guidelines are trained on the job.

The position is based in an office, with some teleworking possible after training, from an approved worksite, and with supervisor approval. The employee must be a primary resident of Montana, report to the office assigned by the supervisor, and meet and sustain department telework requirements. Full-time teleworking is not available. Work may exceed 40 hours at times, including weekends. Some travel may be required, and lifting is infrequent and under 15 pounds.

Applicants must submit a resume and completed state application. Employment eligibility is subject to criminal background and tax-status checks. A valid driver’s license with fewer than 12 conviction points in the most recent completed 36 months is required. Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States; the State of Montana does not sponsor employment visas.

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 combination of education and experience.
• One year of job-related work experience in auditing, tax examination, or accounting practices, or an individually evaluated combination of education and experience.
• 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 tax- and finance-related computer applications.
• 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.
• A valid driver’s license with fewer than 12 conviction points in the most recent completed 36 months.
• Must be a primary resident of Montana as a condition of employment.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States.
• Must successfully pass Department of Revenue tax and background checks; tax status must be current, and circumstances involving tax-status issues will be reviewed.
• Must submit a resume and completed state application.

Nice To Haves

• Self-motivation, a strong work ethic, ability to follow instructions, timely and accurate customer service, ability to work under pressure, and an open-minded approach.

Responsibilities

• Conduct technical-level examinations of assigned tax returns, including research, verification of data, and adjustments to returns.
• 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, and long-term disability; the State currently contributes $12,648 per year toward these benefits.
• Free health care for employees and eligible family members at Montana Health Centers.
• Employee assistance resources, including counseling, legal assistance, well-being coaching, and financial information.
• Retirement plans; the State currently contributes 9.17%, with 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.

What This Job Offers

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