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. The role conducts technical examinations of assigned tax returns, including researching issues, verifying information, adjusting returns, communicating with taxpayers and their representatives, and participating in the appeals process. Tax Examiner 1s also help develop audit programs and procedures, prepare summaries of audit findings, testify as expert witnesses, assist other examiners, and provide support to taxpayers and department programs and employees. The position does not supervise staff. Tax systems and guidelines are taught on the job.

The position is based in an office environment, with some telework possible after training, subject to eligibility requirements and supervisor approval. Full-time teleworking is unavailable, and the employee must be a primary resident of Montana and report to the assigned Department of Revenue office as required. Some travel may be required. Work hours may exceed 40 hours from time to time, including weekends.

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 experience in auditing, tax examination, or accounting practices.
• 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 pass the Department of Revenue tax and background checks.
• Tax status must be current; tax status issues will be reviewed.
• Ability or knowledge in tax accounting, auditing standards and practices, financial analysis, investigative methods, state and federal tax laws 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 database applications, and written, verbal, and interpersonal communication.
• Must be self-motivated, have a strong work ethic, follow instructions, provide timely and accurate customer service, work under pressure, and be open-minded.
• Must be a primary resident of Montana as a condition of employment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct technical-level examinations of assigned tax returns.
• Research tax issues, verify data, and adjust tax returns.
• Communicate with taxpayers and their representatives.
• Participate in the tax appeals 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.
• Free Employee Assistance Benefits, 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