Associate, State and Local TaxDepartment: Tax
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: San Jose, CA
Reporting To: Kaylyn Kleinhans
Compensation: $70,000 - $75,000 / two weeks
DescriptionThe Associate, State & Local Tax (SALT) plays a key role in supporting the firm's tax compliance and advisory services for a diverse and sophisticated SALT client base. In this role, you will prepare a variety of tax returns, assist with research on tax issues, develop well-organized workpapers, and collaborate closely with senior team members to deliver accurate and timely client service. You will have the opportunity to work across a variety of industries while gaining hands-on experience with tax concepts, accounting principles, and leading tax software platforms.
This position is designed for individuals who are beginning their state & local tax career and are motivated to grow their technical expertise, pursue CPA licensure, and contribute to a collaborative team environment. Success in this role requires strong attention to detail, a commitment to quality, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities-especially during peak periods. As a SALT Associate, you will receive comprehensive training, mentorship, and exposure to meaningful client work from day one.
Key Responsibilities- Prepare, review, and finalize state and local income, franchise, and gross receipts tax returns for multistate corporate and pass-through entities.
- Perform business activity tax nexus analyses to determine where income or gross receipts tax filings are required.
- Conduct technical state and local tax research using statutes, regulations, and administrative guidance to support tax positions.
- Assist with state and local tax audits, including responding to inquiries and supporting documentation requests.
- Document technical conclusions, calculations, and research findings in clear, audit-ready workpapers and client deliverables.
- Organize and maintain assigned SALT workstreams within client engagements, including tracking open items, coordinating data requests, and meeting filing deadlines.
- Attend client meetings primarily through phone and email clients to gather information, clarify tax matters, and deliver updates.
- Collaborate with senior and managers/project managers to address review points and ensure accurate and thorough work.
- Participate in internal and external training programs to continuously develop technical SALT knowledge.
- Handle technically challenging tax projects while ensuring compliance with firm policies and quality control standards.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise- Bachelor's degree with a major or emphasis in Accounting.
- Master's degree in Taxation or Accountancy preferred.
- Minimum accounting GPA of 3.0 preferred.
- CA CPA eligible.
- Strong attention to detail and analytical abilities.
- High level of motivation to learn and produce high-quality work.
- Effective interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and a sophisticated client base.
- Ability to work flexibly as part of a team to meet periodic and project-based client deadlines.
- Prior public accounting experience helpful but not required.
- Clear and professional verbal and written communication skills.
Compensation & BenefitsThis role offers a competitive base salary along with a comprehensive benefits package. Salary ranges for U.S.-based positions are determined by geographic location and fall into one of three pay zones, which reflect the cost of labor in that area. The anticipated salary ranges for this position are outlined below and are subject to change:
When determining compensation, we consider a variety of factors such as a candidate's professional experience, skills, and qualifications. Please note that final offer amounts may vary from the ranges listed above and may be adjusted over time.
Sensiba has a robust offering of benefits, including:
- Comprehensive Health Coverage - Medical, dental, and vision.
- Retirement & Financial Planning Support - 401(k) with match, financial wellness programs.
- Generous Paid Time Off - Vacation, sick time, holidays, parental leave and volunteer days.
- Flexible Work Arrangements - Hybrid or remote options, flexible hours.
- Performance-Based Bonus - Recognition for your contributions through discretionary bonuses.
- Professional Development Opportunities - Tuition reimbursement, certifications, mentorship.
- Career Growth & Internal Mobility - Clear paths for advancement and role transitions.
- Inclusive & Supportive Culture - DEI initiatives, employee resource groups, wellness programs.
