Associate, Tax Compliance (EA)
Rockwater Associates, Carlsbad, CA, United States
About the Role
This role is responsible for delivering high-quality tax compliance services for individuals and businesses facing complex IRS and state tax matters. You will serve as the primary point of contact for clients, managing cases from onboarding through resolution while developing and executing strategies that achieve the best possible outcomes.
The ideal candidate brings strong technical knowledge of tax resolution procedures, sound judgment, and the ability to confidently advocate on behalf of clients. This role requires a detail-oriented, solutions-driven professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can communicate clearly with both clients and taxing authorities.
Key Responsibilities
Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout onboarding and case resolution
Partner closely with the sales team to support a seamless client onboarding experience, including participation in initial client conversations, aligning on scope, and ensuring a smooth transition from sale to service
Develop and execute resolution strategies, including: Installment agreements, Offers in Compromise, Currently Not Collectible status, Trust Fund Recovery Penalty cases, Audit reconsiderations and appeals, Innocent spouse relief
Represent clients in communications with the IRS and state agencies (Revenue Officers, ACS, agents, etc.)
Analyze financial documents including tax returns, bank statements, and business records to support case strategy
Conduct technical research using the IRC, IRM, and applicable state laws to identify opportunities and mitigate risk
Prepare and present client deliverables, recommendations, and required documentation
Maintain strong client relationships and deliver a high-touch, responsive client experience
Utilize internal systems and proprietary technology to manage cases efficiently and accurately
Partner with and oversee support staff to delegate tasks effectively, ensure quality of work, and maintain workflow efficiency
Maintain an expected utilization rate of 80%, balancing high-quality client delivery with efficient time management
Qualifications
EA, CPA, or JD required (active license)
2–5+ years of experience in tax resolution, tax controversy, or related field
Strong working knowledge of IRS and state collection procedures
Proven ability to manage multiple cases and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Experience delegating to or coordinating with support staff strongly preferred
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to advocate effectively on behalf of clients
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail
Comfortable working with technology and learning new systems
This role is required to be full-time in the Carlsbad, CA office.
Why Rockwater Group/Taxrock
Competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
Full benefits package including health, dental, and company matching 401(k).
Company-wide winter break – we shut down for a full week over Christmas. PTO + paid holidays.
Growth opportunities in a fast-scaling company.
A role with local presence and national impact.
Be part of a culture built on integrity, transparency and relentless client focus.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
This role is responsible for delivering high-quality tax compliance services for individuals and businesses facing complex IRS and state tax matters. You will serve as the primary point of contact for clients, managing cases from onboarding through resolution while developing and executing strategies that achieve the best possible outcomes.
The ideal candidate brings strong technical knowledge of tax resolution procedures, sound judgment, and the ability to confidently advocate on behalf of clients. This role requires a detail-oriented, solutions-driven professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can communicate clearly with both clients and taxing authorities.
Key Responsibilities
Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout onboarding and case resolution
Partner closely with the sales team to support a seamless client onboarding experience, including participation in initial client conversations, aligning on scope, and ensuring a smooth transition from sale to service
Develop and execute resolution strategies, including: Installment agreements, Offers in Compromise, Currently Not Collectible status, Trust Fund Recovery Penalty cases, Audit reconsiderations and appeals, Innocent spouse relief
Represent clients in communications with the IRS and state agencies (Revenue Officers, ACS, agents, etc.)
Analyze financial documents including tax returns, bank statements, and business records to support case strategy
Conduct technical research using the IRC, IRM, and applicable state laws to identify opportunities and mitigate risk
Prepare and present client deliverables, recommendations, and required documentation
Maintain strong client relationships and deliver a high-touch, responsive client experience
Utilize internal systems and proprietary technology to manage cases efficiently and accurately
Partner with and oversee support staff to delegate tasks effectively, ensure quality of work, and maintain workflow efficiency
Maintain an expected utilization rate of 80%, balancing high-quality client delivery with efficient time management
Qualifications
EA, CPA, or JD required (active license)
2–5+ years of experience in tax resolution, tax controversy, or related field
Strong working knowledge of IRS and state collection procedures
Proven ability to manage multiple cases and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Experience delegating to or coordinating with support staff strongly preferred
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to advocate effectively on behalf of clients
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail
Comfortable working with technology and learning new systems
This role is required to be full-time in the Carlsbad, CA office.
Why Rockwater Group/Taxrock
Competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
Full benefits package including health, dental, and company matching 401(k).
Company-wide winter break – we shut down for a full week over Christmas. PTO + paid holidays.
Growth opportunities in a fast-scaling company.
A role with local presence and national impact.
Be part of a culture built on integrity, transparency and relentless client focus.
#J-18808-Ljbffr