Lead Tax Accountant
The University of Chicago

Department

F&A FIN - Tax Accounting

About the Department

Accounting Services is a group of dedicated individuals serving the University by providing support and assistance with a wide variety of accounting issues. Our primary responsibilities include:
• Agency Funds
• Capital Assets
• Cost Analysis
• Endowment and Gifts
• Financial and Tax Reporting
• General Accounting Services

Job Summary

Reporting to the Controller, the Lead Tax Accountant is responsible for overseeing tax compliance and preparation of the forms 990, 990T, excise tax returns, foreign filings, and related state returns for the University. In addition, the position will be responsible for providing recommendations and identifying strategy for tax savings and reducing tax liability. This position will be responsible for researching and identifying tax savings and reduction of tax liability for the University through collaboration with outside consultants. The Lead Tax accountant will also identify the need for and develop training regarding tax issues for finance and accounting professionals across campus.

Responsibilities

• Oversees tax compliance for the University. With minimal supervision, prepares and timely files 990 tax returns for the University and related organizations.
• Analyzes and reviews unrelated business income and other reporting issues for the 990T tax return.
• Performs tax research and stays informed about changing tax laws impacting higher education.
• Provides strategic guidance by identifying ways to reduce tax liability and find tax savings in collaboration with outside consultants.
• Monitors the receipt of K-1's and other relevant tax information related to the investments of the University.
• Provides strategic direction for the University's measures to comply with the Inflation Reduction Act.
• Works with the Investment Office staff to access reports and information in Backstop.
• Works with campus units that generate unrelated business income.
• Identifies and develops training for campus-wide knowledge-sharing regarding tax topics.
• Reviews and analyzes unrelated business income calculations from campus departments.
• Prepares unrelated business income work papers for various campus activities.
• Files extensions and processes tax payments.
• Prepares W-9 and other FATCA compliance forms.
• Prepares and files form 720 tax returns.
• Reviews campus compliance with sales and use tax.
• Maintains and updates related organization database.
• Prepares external survey requests based upon 990 information.
• Develops and maintains the tax website.
• Supervises entry-level tax accountant.
• Reconciles and records monthly activities for foreign entities.
• Works closely with financial services staff on various accounting issues.
• Works closely with other staff in the preparation of year-end financial statement work papers
• Uses specialized knowledge and breadth of experience to perform a variety of complex operating or cost accounting activities, incorporating accounting theories and principles.
• Recommends methods for improved operations.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
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Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.
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Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting or business administration, with a concentration in accounting.
• Master's degree in taxation (MST).

Experience:

• Seven years of relevant tax and accounting experience.

Certifications:

• CPA.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Knowledge of federal income tax related to higher education.
• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Experience with tax software such as ProSystem FX and C-TRAC.

Preferred Competencies

• Research tax issues for compliance with federal, state and local tax regulations.
• Communicate tax and accounting information clearly and concisely.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills.
• Think strategically and translate into operational objectives.
• Independently develop and analyze alternative solutions and make recommendations.
• Establish and maintain relationships at all organizational levels.
• Flexible and able to work effectively and gracefully under considerable time pressure to meet tax deadlines.

Working Conditions

• Work non-traditional hours when necessary.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (required)
• References Contact Information (3)(required)

When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Financial Management

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

FLSA Status

Exempt

Pay Frequency

Monthly

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at:http://securityreport.uchicago.edu.Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

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