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 regional leadership.

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 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 to articulate 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 work under deadlines and manage multiple projects independently and with 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 multiple projects simultaneously in a deadline-driven environment
• Ability to coach and develop staff

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 possible occasional office visits

Equal Opportunity

The employer is committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.