Accounting & Tax Operations Manager (Part-Time, Growth Path)

Small accounting firm | Primarily Xero (some QBO) | Client-Facing | Systems-Driven
We’re a small accounting firm scaling our client service delivery while the owner shifts more time into advisory. We need a hands-on operations lead who can take day-to-day ownership of month-end financials delivery, payroll/compliance oversight, and the tax return pipeline—so work moves forward without constant escalation.

This is not a “helper” role. This is a responsible party role.
What you’ll own
Month-end close + financials
Oversee and review monthly closes (primarily Xero, some QBO) using a checklist-driven process
Perform targeted reconciliations and GL review for accuracy; ensure uncategorized items are cleared or documented
Finalize and send client financial statements (P&L, Balance Sheet) with professional, courteous communication, clear notes, and documented action items

Payroll + compliance workflow
Oversee payroll processing performed by support staff; step in for exceptions and quality control
Maintain a compliance calendar and ensure quarterlies/year-end workflow is executed on time (W-2/W-3, 1099 process where applicable)
Improve processes so payroll/compliance happens predictably without last-minute emergencies

Tax prep pipeline (prep-to-review)
Organize client documents and drive missing-item follow-up
Prepare and/or support preparation of 1040 + Schedule C (entity experience is a plus)
Push returns to “ready for review” with clean workpapers and flagged issues

Client issues + notices
Triage and resolve routine IRS/state notices and compliance questions
Document decisions and keep work visible so nothing gets lost

Systems + team workflow
Use and improve SOPs/checklists, task boards, and deadlines
Delegate appropriately to bookkeeping support staff as capacity grows

What we’re looking for (must haves)
3+ years in small firm bookkeeping/accounting operations or similar client-facing role
Strong month-end close fundamentals and comfort reviewing a General Ledger
Real payroll exposure (processing + filings workflow mindset)
Able to communicate clearly with clients in a professional and courteous manner: concise emails, firm deadlines, documented action items
You use systems: checklists, calendars, pipeline stages—no “winging it”

Strongly preferred
Xero proficiency (QBO secondary)
Experience with tax prep in a firm environment (1040/Sch C at minimum)
Comfortable owning outcomes and escalating only true strategy questions

Schedule & pay
20–30 hours/week to start, with potential to grow
Hourly range: $32–$45/hr DOE (higher end for strong tax + payroll ownership)

Mainly remote; Mountain Time availability is important
How to apply
Send:
~Resume
A short note answering:
~What’s your month-end close process?
~What payroll/compliance work have you owned?
~Which tax forms can you prepare confidently?

Candidates will complete a paid, time-boxed skills test.