Tax Examiner 1 - Withholding Unit

State of Montana • Helena, MT

3d • 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 conducts technical-level examinations of assigned tax returns, including researching issues, verifying data, adjusting returns, communicating with taxpayers and their representatives, and participating in appeals. The examiner assists with developing audit programs and procedures, drafting summaries of audit findings, and testifying as an expert witness. The role also assists other tax examiners and provides support services to taxpayers, department programs, and employees. The position does not supervise staff. Tax computer systems and guidelines are taught on the job.

The position is based in an office, with some teleworking opportunities after the training period, subject to eligibility and supervisor approval. Full-time teleworking is not available, and the employee must primarily reside in Montana and report to the Department of Revenue office assigned by the supervisor. Work hours may exceed 40 hours occasionally, 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.
• Knowledge of tax accounting, auditing standards and practices, financial analysis, investigative methods and procedures, state and federal tax laws 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.
• 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 employment authorization.
• Must successfully pass Department of Revenue tax and background checks; tax status must be current.
• Must complete and submit the online application, resume, and complete state application.
• Must be a primary resident of Montana and report to the assigned Department of Revenue office.
• Must meet and sustain Department of Revenue telework eligibility requirements and obtain supervisor approval to participate in the telework program.

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.
• Research tax issues, verify data, and adjust tax returns.
• Communicate with taxpayers and their representatives.
• 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, 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.

What This Job Offers

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