National Tax - R&D Manager

Overview

A professional services firm is seeking an R&D Credit Services Manager to join their National Tax practice. This is a remote position, with occasional requirements to attend office locations for client work, team meetings, or training sessions. The role supports a growing national R&D Credit Services team with opportunities for leadership development.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact and project manager for R&D credit studies and related activities
• Ensure engagements comply with practice standards, are completed on time, and stay within budget
• Conduct fieldwork and assist with client deliverables
• Demonstrate expert time and project management skills, including prioritization and stakeholder communication
• Develop and execute work plans to identify and quantify research credit claims, including scope, fees, deliverables, and timing
• Explain complex tax technical matters clearly to firm and client personnel
• Assist team members with legal research and writing on technical issues
• Lead engagement reviews, including technical review of calculations, work papers, and deliverables
• Provide proactive project updates to manage stakeholder expectations
• Suggest improvements for process efficiency and engagement management
• Coach, train, and support professional development of staff
• Manage project budgets and engagement economics

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of industry experience, including 1-2 years in a managerial role
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Licensed CPA, J.D., or LL.M.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, capable of articulating complex information via email, phone, and video
• Detailed understanding of federal and state tax rules, regulations, and relevant court cases
• Mastery of topics such as controlled groups, changes in ownership, funded research, utilization, Payroll Tax Credit, short periods, and entity conversions
• Strong understanding of entity types and credit flow to utilization points
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a deadline-driven environment both independently and within a team
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with firm and client personnel at all levels
• Willingness to study relevant tax materials related to R&D credit rules
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and internet research

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing R&D credit engagements and leading teams
• Strong project and time management skills

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range in Illinois for this role is $110,000 to $170,000
• Total rewards package includes discretionary performance bonus, generous paid time off, expanded parental benefits, and access to learning and development platforms

Location

• Remote position with occasional office presence required

Equal Opportunity

The employer is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities during the recruitment process.