1

Federal Tax Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Federal Tax Associate information

See salary details

$30K

$69.5K

$102K

How much do federal tax associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal tax associate in the United States is $69,469.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $78,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Federal Tax Associates face in their first year, and how can they successfully navigate them?

Federal Tax Associates often encounter challenges such as keeping up with frequent changes in tax laws, managing tight deadlines during tax season, and learning to interpret complex tax codes. Effective organization, seeking guidance from experienced team members, and proactively utilizing firm-provided training resources can help new associates overcome these hurdles. Collaborating closely with senior associates and managers is also key to developing technical skills and building confidence in client interactions.

What does a tax associate do?

A tax associate prepares and reviews tax returns, ensures compliance with tax laws, and assists clients or organizations with tax planning. They often use tax software and need strong analytical skills to identify deductions and credits, working under deadlines during tax season.

What are Federal Tax Associates?

Federal Tax Associates are entry-level tax professionals who assist organizations and individuals with federal tax compliance, planning, and reporting. They typically work for accounting firms or corporate tax departments, preparing tax returns, researching tax laws, and supporting clients with IRS regulations. Their role often involves analyzing financial data, helping to minimize tax liabilities, and ensuring compliance with federal tax codes. Federal Tax Associates may also contribute to audit support and stay updated on changing tax legislation to provide accurate advice. This position is a common starting point for a career in tax accounting.

What is the difference between Federal Tax Associate vs Tax Preparer?

AspectFederal Tax AssociateTax Preparer
Required CredentialsGenerally requires a degree in accounting, finance, or related field; certifications like PTIN or EA are commonOften requires a PTIN; certifications are optional but beneficial
Work EnvironmentTypically in accounting firms, corporate finance departments, or government agenciesPrimarily in tax preparation services, retail locations, or freelance work
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by accounting firms, corporations, and government agencies during tax seasonUsed by individual tax preparation services, retail chains, or self-employed professionals

While both roles involve tax-related tasks, a Federal Tax Associate usually works in more structured environments with formal credentials and handles complex tax issues, whereas a Tax Preparer often works independently or in retail settings focusing on basic tax filings.

How much do tax associates make in the US?

Tax associates in the US typically earn between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer size. Entry-level positions may start around $40,000, while experienced professionals or those working in large firms can earn over $80,000. Many tax associates also receive benefits such as health insurance and opportunities for certification like CPA or EA to advance their careers.

What jobs pay 200,000 a year in the USA?

In the USA, high-paying roles such as senior federal tax associates, experienced financial managers, specialized attorneys, and certain executive positions can earn $200,000 or more annually. These roles often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and strong analytical or leadership skills.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $500,000 annually include executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as specialized professions like top-tier surgeons, investment bankers, and successful entrepreneurs. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve leadership responsibilities or significant financial risk. In some cases, senior professionals in finance, law, or technology may also achieve this level of compensation through bonuses, profit sharing, or equity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Federal Tax Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Tax Associate, you need a solid understanding of tax law, accounting principles, and typically a degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, often with progress toward a CPA certification. Familiarity with tax preparation software, research databases like CCH or RIA, and proficiency in Excel are commonly required technical skills. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing complex tax issues and client interactions. These abilities are essential to ensure accurate tax compliance, provide valuable insights to clients, and maintain regulatory standards in a dynamic tax environment.
More about Federal Tax Associate jobs
What cities are hiring for Federal Tax Associate jobs? Cities with the most Federal Tax Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Tax jobs? The most popular types of Federal Tax jobs are:
What states have the most Federal Tax Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Federal Tax Associate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Federal Tax Associate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,469 per year, or $33.4 per hour.
Associate Director, Internal Tax Team - Federal Direct Tax

Associate Director, Internal Tax Team - Federal Direct Tax

Deloitte

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Deloitte rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 146 rated financial services


Job description

The Federal Direct Tax team within the US Firms Tax ("USFT") group of the Deloitte US Firms is responsible for analyzing and computing book-tax differences, calculating federal taxable income, and the preparation of the Deloitte US Firms' federal partnership returns. In addition, the Federal Direct Tax team prepares yearend projections, and performs tax research and analysis on certain tax planning strategies.

Recruiting for this role ends on July 17th 2026.

Work You'll Do: 

We are seeking an Associate Director to lead our Federal Direct Tax team, reporting to the Director of Domestic Tax. The Federal Direct Tax Associate Director will be responsible for collaborating with our Partner Tax Matters, International Tax, and State Direct Tax teams to coordinate the preparation and filing of our federal income tax returns. The Federal Direct Tax Associate Director will oversee the process of analyzing and computing book-tax differences, calculating taxable income, reviewing federal partnership returns, and reviewing federal partnership Schedules K-1 and K-3. They will oversee the deliverables to and from the Finance function as required throughout the year. The Federal Direct Tax Associate Director will direct the management of team resources. They will onboard, manage, and retain our staff, and drive technology transformation and process improvements. As an Associate Director leading our Federal Direct Tax team you will:

  • Review and drive the preparation of partnership federal tax returns and workpapers, including Schedules K-1 and K-3 and ensure all are filed in a timely manner
  • Collaborate on the production and distribution of annual partner K-1 packages to Deloitte US Firms partners
  • Lead yearend tax planning in coordination with Finance and other USFT teams
  • Perform tax research as necessary regarding federal tax issues affecting the Deloitte US Firms or our partners
  • Work with our Indirect Tax and Partner Tax Matters teams on federal withholding information returns
  • Oversee any potential federal tax audits and correspond with authorities regarding audit issues or tax notices
  • Manage the federal tax compliance process, including developing and managing compliance workplan and assignments of team members
  • Monitor and implement any federal tax legislation
  • Provide guidance to USFT and firm leadership on federal tax issues
  • Make recommendations on business and process improvements related to Deloitte US Firms tax matters

The successful candidate would possess these skills:

  • Advanced knowledge of federal partnership tax compliance, tax research, and tax planning
  • Ability to lead projects or workstreams
  • Ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced and dynamic environment
  • Prior experience supervising tax professionals on a project or engagement basis
  • Ability to mentor and provide clear guidance to others
  • Ability to work independently and collaborate as part of a team
  • Strong interpersonal skills and professional demeanor

The Team

Deloitte Services LP includes internal support areas such as Finance and Administration, Talent, Information Technology, Marketing and Communications, and Facilities Management. This Associate Director role is part of our internal USFT team which is a subset of our Finance and Administration group. The USFT team is responsible for setting the tax policy for the Deloitte US Firms in the US and other countries where it has operations, as well as for all the domestic and foreign compliance for the Deloitte US Firms' entities.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Taxation
  • CPA, Enrolled Agent or other relevant certification
  • Eight (8)+ years of experience in the federal partnership tax industry
  • Proficient in Excel
  • Experience with ONESOURCE Income Tax
  • Ability to travel 10%, on average, based on the work you do and the clients and industries/sectors you serve.
  • Limited immigration sponsorship may be available.

Preferred:

  • Advanced degree
  • Experience with operating partnerships or partnerships in the professional services industry
  • Experience with SAP or other financial systems

The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. At Deloitte, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is $118,700 to $234,700

You may also be eligible to participate in a discretionary annual incentive program, subject to the rules governing the program, whereby an award, if any, depends on various factors, including, without limitation, individual and organizational performance.

Qualifications:

The Federal Direct Tax team within the US Firms Tax ("USFT") group of the Deloitte US Firms is responsible for analyzing and computing book-tax differences, calculating federal taxable income, and the preparation of the Deloitte US Firms' federal partnership returns. In addition, the Federal Direct Tax team prepares yearend projections, and performs tax research and analysis on certain tax planning strategies.

Recruiting for this role ends on July 17th 2026.

Work You'll Do: 

We are seeking an Associate Director to lead our Federal Direct Tax team, reporting to the Director of Domestic Tax. The Federal Direct Tax Associate Director will be responsible for collaborating with our Partner Tax Matters, International Tax, and State Direct Tax teams to coordinate the preparation and filing of our federal income tax returns. The Federal Direct Tax Associate Director will oversee the process of analyzing and computing book-tax differences, calculating taxable income, reviewing federal partnership returns, and reviewing federal partnership Schedules K-1 and K-3. They will oversee the deliverables to and from the Finance function as required throughout the year. The Federal Direct Tax Associate Director will direct the management of team resources. They will onboard, manage, and retain our staff, and drive technology transformation and process improvements. As an Associate Director leading our Federal Direct Tax team you will:

  • Review and drive the preparation of partnership federal tax returns and workpapers, including Schedules K-1 and K-3 and ensure all are filed in a timely manner
  • Collaborate on the production and distribution of annual partner K-1 packages to Deloitte US Firms partners
  • Lead yearend tax planning in coordination with Finance and other USFT teams
  • Perform tax research as necessary regarding federal tax issues affecting the Deloitte US Firms or our partners
  • Work with our Indirect Tax and Partner Tax Matters teams on federal withholding information returns
  • Oversee any potential federal tax audits and correspond with authorities regarding audit issues or tax notices
  • Manage the federal tax compliance process, including developing and managing compliance workplan and assignments of team members
  • Monitor and implement any federal tax legislation
  • Provide guidance to USFT and firm leadership on federal tax issues
  • Make recommendations on business and process improvements related to Deloitte US Firms tax matters

The successful candidate would possess these skills:

  • Advanced knowledge of federal partnership tax compliance, tax research, and tax planning
  • Ability to lead projects or workstreams
  • Ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced and dynamic environment
  • Prior experience supervising tax professionals on a project or engagement basis
  • Ability to mentor and provide clear guidance to others
  • Ability to work independently and collaborate as part of a team
  • Strong interpersonal skills and professional demeanor

The Team

Deloitte Services LP includes internal support areas such as Finance and Administration, Talent, Information Technology, Marketing and Communications, and Facilities Management. This Associate Director role is part of our internal USFT team which is a subset of our Finance and Administration group. The USFT team is responsible for setting the tax policy for the Deloitte US Firms in the US and other countries where it has operations, as well as for all the domestic and foreign compliance for the Deloitte US Firms' entities.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Taxation
  • CPA, Enrolled Agent or other relevant certification
  • Eight (8)+ years of experience in the federal partnership tax industry
  • Proficient in Excel
  • Experience with ONESOURCE Income Tax
  • Ability to travel 10%, on average, based on the work you do and the clients and industries/sectors you serve.
  • Limited immigration sponsorship may be available.

Preferred:

  • Advanced degree
  • Experience with operating partnerships or partnerships in the professional services industry
  • Experience with SAP or other financial systems

The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. At Deloitte, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is $118,700 to $234,700

You may also be eligible to participate in a discretionary annual incentive program, subject to the rules governing the program, whereby an award, if any, depends on various factors, including, without limitation, individual and organizational performance.

Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type:

What Deloitte employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom