Job Specification Details

Administrative, financial, and advisory work for various divisions within the Vermont Department of Taxes. The Senior Tax Specialist assists Directors and Supervisors with the planning, designing and implementation of various programs related to new tax types, appeals, fraud review, forms design, audits, administrative adjustments to taxpayer’s accounts, and other functions. Duties include ensuring that all policies, procedures, and training materials required for work on complex tax issues are implemented in a timely and efficient manner, developing and maintaining internal control programs, and supporting regulatory compliance. Substantial knowledge of both federal and state tax laws regulations, and other relevant standards, such as generally accepted accounting principles is required. The Senior Tax Specialist may represent the Department in administrative hearings and possible subsequent judicial proceedings.  Duties are performed under the general direction of the Director or a designee.

Conducts in-depth reviews and audits of the most complex tax issues, such as those involving personal and corporate/business taxes. 

Collaborates with staff, supervisors, and directors from multiple divisions in reviewing Department policies and procedures to ensure a consistent and accurate representation of the Department’s position in complex tax cases.

Provides guidance and feedback on complex issues when difficult questions arise during the regular course of reviewing and processing returns throughout the various sections, which may arise when there are questions about how to handle key positions and issues presented by taxpayers, accountants, or attorneys. 

Develops and maintains internal control programs to ensure the effectiveness and efficiencies of newly implemented programs that automate processes and provide assurance of legal and regulatory compliance. 

Develops training programs for staff on the implementation of new tax legislation and how it relates to the processes within specific sections.  

Phone and written correspondence with tax professionals that requires excellent communication skills and ability to present positions in a clear and concise manner. 

Detailed evaluation of current systems and processes to recommend and implement increased efficiencies and automated processes. 

Monitors both federal and state tax changes and document the level and frequency of questions arising from taxpayers, preparers and attorneys and implement training programs as appropriate. 

Represents the Department in the formal appeals process, appearing as the Department’s expert witness and providing substantiating evidence. 

Presents detailed, concise and accurate position papers to assist the Department in making decisions on complicated issues. 
 

Duties are generally performed in a standard office setting. Work outside of regular work schedule may be anticipated. Occasional travel to various in and out of state business locations may also be anticipated. Disagreements may arise with representatives of some of the corporate taxpayers which will require the use of both tact and diplomacy.

Thorough knowledge of the requirements of GASB and GAAP accounting.

Thorough knowledge of accounting principles and practices.

Knowledge of data processing systems and programs, particularly in the area of financial management.

Ability to interpret and apply statutes, rules and regulations of considerable complexity.

Ability to prepare a variety of complex financial reports and documents.

Ability to communicate effectively.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Bachelor's degree in accounting, business administration, public administration, mathematics, or a relevant field AND five (5) years or more of professional tax administration, accounting, or auditing experience.

OR

Accreditation as a CPA or Certified Internal Auditor and five (5) years or more of professional tax administration, accounting, or auditing experience.
 

Accounting or auditing experience in the public or governmental sectors.