Tax Examiner I

State of Maine•Augusta, ME

2d•Onsite

About The Position

This position involves the examination, assessment, and collection of various state taxes. Responsibilities also include responding to taxpayer questions or concerns. The Tax Examiner I is a trainee position which, upon successful completion and demonstration of certain specified competencies after 12 months, results in promotion to Tax Examiner II, and upon successful completion and demonstration of certain specified competencies after 12 months as a Tax Examiner II, results in advancement to Tax Examiner III. Work is performed under general supervision.

Requirements

Knowledge of state tax laws, rules, and regulations.
Knowledge of state and federal tax forms.
Knowledge of accounting procedures and systems.
Knowledge of computerized taxation systems.
Knowledge of confidentiality requirements of tax-related information.
Knowledge of tax collection procedures.
Ability to explain tax laws, rules, procedures, and forms.
Ability to examine tax returns/forms and detect irregularities and errors.
Ability to negotiate basic tax payment plans.
Ability to deal effectively with taxpayers.
Ability to present and defend technical and administrative decisions.
Ability to use applicable computer programs.
Ability to write clear, concise reports.
Ability to apply business mathematics in defining and solving problems associated with tax enforcement and compliance.
Ability to establish facts, draw operational conclusions, and solve practical problems.
A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited educational institution -OR- four (4) years of equivalent post-secondary education, training, and/or professional level experience in accounting, tax collection, finance, or directly related computer science that demonstrates the ability to use independent judgment, initiative, and discretion to make decisions on complex matters.

Responsibilities

Reviews tax returns, applications, and records for completeness and accuracy.
Calculates amount of income tax, and/or other taxes due to make assessments.
Explains state tax laws, rules, and regulations to the public and professionals in order to be used in determining tax liabilities and filing requirements.
Contacts taxpayers in writing or by telephone for a variety of reasons including to clarify assessments imposed on them.
Discusses and explains various tax forms, laws, and policies with taxpayers and their representatives.
Interprets and applies federal and state tax codes for personal, business, and corporate taxes.