Junior Staff Accountant – Tax Department
Step into a role where your accounting expertise can take root and thrive. At ALG Group, we’ve built a community of professionals who value meaningful relationships, shared growth, and genuine collaboration. We’re not just colleagues—we’re a close-knit team invested in each other’s success.
Our core values—Embrace Caring, Value People, Integrity, Cultivate Growth, Assume Ownership, and Achieve Results—shape everything we do. As part of our smaller CPA firm, you’ll gain hands-on experience across tax preparation, bookkeeping, accounting, and client advisory services, while also gaining exposure to audit engagements and other areas of public accounting. This well-rounded experience prepares you for long-term advancement and succession opportunities within the firm.
We believe strongly in work-life balance and creating an environment where fulfilled professionals can do their best work.
Key Responsibilities
· Prepare and assist with individual, business, nonprofit, trust, and estate tax returns while ensuring accuracy, compliance, and attention to detail.
· Apply accounting and tax principles to bookkeeping, tax, and accounting engagements, developing a strong understanding of federal and state tax laws, including cash and accrual methods of accounting.
· Build positive relationships by communicating professionally with clients and delivering an exceptional client experience.
· Analyze client financial information, perform accurate data entry, and prepare supporting schedules and workpapers.
· Review, organize, scan, and maintain client documents in accordance with ALG Group's Standard Operating Procedures and document retention policies.
· Assist with bookkeeping, payroll, sales tax, and other accounting services as needed.
· Support senior accountants, partners, and the office manager with tax preparation, research, audit engagements, administrative projects, and seasonal workflow needs.
· Assist in reviewing IRS and state tax notices and preparing draft responses under the guidance of senior staff.
· Perform thorough self-review of all work, maintain confidentiality of client information, and uphold the highest ethical and professional standards.
· Demonstrate a willingness to learn, assume ownership of responsibilities, and gradually take on more complex accounting and tax engagements.
Qualifications
- CPA candidate preferred.
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, or similar degree program.
- 1-3 years of tax preparation, bookkeeping, or public accounting experience preferred.
- Basic understanding of federal and state tax principles and accounting concepts.
- Experience with tax preparation software (UltraTax CS, Drake, ProConnect, or similar) is preferred but not required.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Adobe, and the ability to adapt to new software and evolving technology.
- Experience with QuickBooks and standard accounting platforms.
- Willingness to learn and gradually take on more complex responsibilities.
- Task driven and focused, with the ability to manage work independently and efficiently.
- Detail oriented and highly organized, with respect for established processes.
- Strong analytical thinking skills.
- Adaptable and patient, able to pivot when priorities shift.
- Strong communication skills and a willingness to ask questions to ensure clarity and accuracy.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with peers and staff at all levels.
Why Join ALG?
- Competitive compensation and benefits backed by ALG Group’s strong industry standing.
- Exceptional long-term advancement opportunities within the firm.
- A culture rooted in collaboration, innovation, service, and community.
- Commitment to personal and professional development.
- A diverse and engaging client portfolio, including a strong focus on supporting local non-profit organizations.
- Opportunities to give back through community involvement and partnerships with area non-profits.
ALG Group is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and an affirmative action employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
This position is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization or employment visa sponsorship, now or in the future. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout their employment without requiring employer sponsorship.
If you believe your skills, experience, and values align with this role, we encourage you to apply.
Job Type: Full-time
Physical Setting:
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
- 8AM to 5PM
Experience:
- Accounting: 1-3 years (Preferred)
Work Location: In person, East Lansing
Pay: $50,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Health insurance
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Retirement plan
- Volunteer time off
Application Question(s):
- This is a fully in-office position in East Lansing. Are you able to work in-office full-time?
Education:
Ability to Relocate:
- East Lansing, MI 48823: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
