VITA Tax Preparer
3 days ago
Oakland
Job Description Title: Temporary Tax Preparer (VITA Program) Reports To: Sr. Manager, Economic Development Workforce Development Department: Community Programs Location: Oakland, CA Hours: Monday through Friday, some weekends may be required Travel: Local travel may be required Salary: $27-$30 Employee Status: Temporary, Full-time, Non-Exempt (Lasting from the hire date until April 2026) Union: N/A Supervises: N/A Agency Summary The Unity Council is a non-profit Social Equity Development Corporation with a 61-year history in the Fruitvale neighborhood of Oakland. Our mission is to promote social equity and improve quality of life by building vibrant communities where everyone can work, learn, and thrive. Our programs aim to provide the community with the tools, knowledge, and resources to transform their lives and ultimately achieve their long-term educational, career, and financial goals. These holistic programs and services reach more than 11,000 individuals and families annually in five languages. Programs include: early childhood education, youth mentorship and leadership development, employment services, career readiness training, housing and financial stability, senior citizen services, affordable housing and neighborhood development, and arts and cultural events. Our work expands beyond the Fruitvale district and now reaches across Oakland and into Contra Costa County. The Unity Council employs a diverse workforce of more than 350 people who reflect the linguistic, cultural, and ethnic identity of the communities we serve. Program Summary The Unity Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting financial stability, equity, and empowerment for individuals and families in our community. Through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, we provide free, high-quality tax preparation services to low- and moderate-income taxpayers, helping them access critical tax credits and refunds that support economic wellbeing. Position Summary We are seeking a skilled and service-driven Temporary Tax Preparer to join our VITA team for the upcoming tax season. This full-time, temporary position (40 hours per week) plays an essential role in ensuring that clients receive accurate, timely, and confidential tax preparation assistance. The ideal candidate will be bilingual in English and Spanish, possess strong attention to detail and share our commitment to community service. Responsibilities and Essential Functions • Prepare and electronically file federal and state income tax returns in accordance, • with IRS VITA guidelines., • Review client documentation for completeness, accuracy, and eligibility for, • applicable credits and deductions., • Provide courteous, confidential, and professional service in both English and, • Spanish., • Educate clients about tax credits, refunds, and financial resources that can benefit, • their households., • Participate in all required IRS and VITA training and certification prior to the start of, • the tax season., • Maintain accurate records and ensure timely submission of all completed returns., • Collaborate with staff and volunteers to ensure smooth and efficient site Operations., • Other duties as assigned. Qualifications • Bilingual in English and Spanish (required); Mam speaker preferred., • Prior experience preparing individual income tax returns strongly preferred., • IRS VITA certification or willingness to complete certification prior to the start date., • Excellent attention to detail, organization, and accuracy., • Strong communication and interpersonal skills., • Commitment to the mission and values of a nonprofit organization serving diverse communities. Physical Requirements • Strong computer skills with strong MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)., • Regularly required to operate standard office equipment (personal computer, photocopier, fax, etc.)., • Regularly required to sit for long periods of time and occasionally stand and walk., • Regularly required to use hands to operate computer and other office equipment., • Must be able to reach, bend, lift occasionally 15-20 pounds. Pre-Employment Requirements • Background Check This description is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or requirements for the position. This position may change or assume additional duties at any time. * Please submit your cover letter and resume. ** The Unity Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.