Tax Examiner 1 - Corporate Tax Unit

State of Montana•Helena, MT

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Tax Examiner 1 works in the Corporate Tax Unit within the Business & Income Taxes Division of the Montana Department of Revenue. The division administers business, individual, and natural-resource taxes, verifies compliance with Montana law, and conducts audits and other tax-related work. The role performs technical examinations of assigned tax returns, including research, data verification, return adjustments, communication with taxpayers and their representatives, and participation in appeals. The examiner also helps develop audit programs and procedures, prepares summary reports of audit findings, may testify as an expert witness, assists other tax examiners, and provides support to taxpayers and department programs and employees. The position does not supervise staff. Tax systems and guidelines are taught on the job. The work is primarily in an office environment. Some telework may be available after training, subject to eligibility and supervisor approval; full-time telework is not available, and the employee must be a primary resident of Montana and report to the assigned Department of Revenue office. Work hours may exceed 40 hours at times, including weekends, and some travel may be required. The position requires a valid driver’s license. 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 combination of education and experience.
One year of job-related 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 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.
Must have a valid driver’s license.
Must pass the Department of Revenue tax and background checks; tax status must be current.
Must be a primary resident of Montana as a condition of employment and report to the assigned Department of Revenue office.
Submit a resume and complete state application; applicants must apply online and upload required documents.

Nice To Haves

Self-motivated, with a strong work ethic.
Able to follow instructions and provide timely, accurate customer service.
Able to work under pressure and remain open-minded.

Responsibilities

Conduct technical-level examinations of assigned tax returns, including research, data verification, and return adjustments.
Communicate with taxpayers and their representatives and participate in the appeal process.
Assist with the development of 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.
State contribution of $12,648 per year toward 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.