Tax Research Analyst - Symmetry

As a Tax Research Analyst at Symmetry, your responsibilities will include monitoring federal, state, and local payroll tax compliance changes for the U.S. and Canada. You'll analyze and communicate these updates to cross-functional teams, assisting with client inquiries and collaborating to ensure our products remain compliant with tax regulations. You'll also engage in process improvements and may participate in industry groups.

To qualify for the Tax Research Analyst position at Symmetry, you should have a bachelor's degree in a related field such as Tax, Accounting, or Finance, along with 5-7 years of experience in payroll tax, compliance, or accounting. Preferred certifications include the PayrollOrg CPP or FPC Certification and CPA credentials, along with experience in multistate tax compliance.

Symmetry supports professional growth by encouraging continuous learning and providing opportunities to shadow experienced colleagues, participate in special projects, and engage with local and national payroll industry groups. The company also welcomes efforts for additional certifications and the exploration of new tax compliance technologies.

The work environment at Symmetry is collaborative and inclusive, where Tax Research Analysts work closely with team members and management. You can expect open communication, mutual respect, and a culture that values innovative ideas and personal development, creating an enriching atmosphere for everyone involved.

At Symmetry, the cash compensation for the Tax Research Analyst position is targeted between $85,000 and $107,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. Comprehensive benefits and opportunities for further advancement within the organization complement this salary.

To stay updated on tax compliance changes, I utilize industry newsletters, government websites, and participate in webinars and tax forums. Networking with industry professionals and joining relevant associations also aids in accessing a wealth of shared knowledge.

In my previous role, I encountered a multifaceted tax compliance issue pertaining to a state tax change that was ambiguous. I conducted thorough research, reached out to the state department for clarifications, collaborated with my team to draft an updated compliance document, and communicated the changes to our clients effectively.

I would systematically identify the source of the discrepancies, conducting a detailed review of the data involved. Communicating with relevant teams to clarify the errors, I would seek input from cross-functional partners to align on accurate solutions before implementing any corrections.

When analyzing and interpreting tax regulations, I employ a detailed methodology that includes breaking down the regulations into manageable components, comparing them with existing compliance frameworks, and consulting expert interpretations if necessary, ensuring a comprehensive understanding before applying changes.

I prioritize my workload by assessing deadlines and the potential impact of compliance changes on clients. I develop a strategic plan that assesses urgency and complexity, ensuring that high-priority tasks are addressed first while maintaining flexibility to accommodate any emerging issues.

In a previous position, I needed to explain a complicated tax regulation change to a non-technical audience. I simplified the language used by creating visual aids and straightforward summaries, ensuring everyone involved understood the implications and was equipped to adapt their processes accordingly.

I have experience using various compliance research tools such as Google Workspace for documentation, and Jira for project tracking. I also utilize third-party research databases to gather insights on federal and state tax law changes.

I approach collaboration by establishing open lines of communication and actively seeking input and insights from all parties involved. By fostering a culture of sharing knowledge and feedback, we can integrate various perspectives and create a more comprehensive solution to tax compliance challenges.

I'm motivated by the impactful nature of tax compliance work—knowing that accurate, timely information can significantly affect businesses and their employees. The thrill of staying ahead of fast-paced tax changes and contributing to a knowledgeable team adds to my enthusiasm for the role.

I want to work at Symmetry because of its reputation for innovation in tax compliance and its commitment to creating an inclusive, collaborative workplace. The opportunity to contribute to a high-impact team while supporting the financial well-being of countless employees excites me and aligns with my professional values.