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About Smith & Howard:Founded over half a century ago, on the guiding vision of Jim Howard and Joe Smith, Smith + Howard has grown into a family of companies serving clients across the globe through our tax, accounting and advisory solutions. The company has been dedicated to empowering businesses and individuals to achieve their financial goals through their personal and responsive client service. Smith + Howard is proud to have helped countless entrepreneurs find success and build thriving businesses. At Smith + Howard’s integrated Indian hub in Bengaluru, Smith + Howard Advisory LLC, is focused on ushering in the next wave of innovation in the accounting industry. If you’re eager to work on challenging projects in the global audit, tax and accounting space, this is your chance to join a truly remarkable team.Job Title: Senior Associate – Employee Benefit Plan PracticeLocation: BangaloreShift Timing: 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM IST (5-day work week)Summary:This role involves leading and supporting audits for defined contribution pension plans, defined benefit pension plans, and health plans. You will work directly with Managers and Partners at the firm. This is an excellent opportunity to specialize in a high-demand service line and contribute to a growing practice.Key Responsibilities:Lead and Support Audits: Conduct and support audits for defined contribution pension plans, defined benefit pension plans, and health plans.Compliance Testing: Lead compliance testing on various types of defined benefit plans.Communication & Relationship Building: Communicate effectively with partners and managers to learn engagement expectations and build long-term relationships.Problem Solving & Proposals: Identify problem areas and client issues, proposing solutions to managers and partners.Continual Learning: Stay updated on developments, pronouncements, and technical issues, and participate in internal training as appropriate.Qualifications & Skills:Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field from an accredited university.Licensing / Certification: Chartered Accountant (CA), CPA, or currently progressing towards a CPA or CA certification is a plus.Experience: Minimum 3 to 5 years of public accounting experience, or experience working with a U.S. CPA firm’s back office or provider.Employee Benefit Plan Audit Experience: 2+ years of relevant experience, including the following responsibilities:401(k) Audit Execution: Conduct audits of employee benefit plans, including 401(k) retirement plans, to ensure compliance with regulations.Plan Provisions & Compliance: Review plan provisions and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., ERISA, IRS regulations).Contributions & Benefits Payment Testing: Perform detailed testing on employee and employer contributions, and benefit payments for accuracy and compliance.Reporting & Financial Statement Preparation: Prepare and review financial statements for employee benefit plans, ensuring proper presentation in compliance with GAAP and regulatory standards.Internal Controls & Documentation: Evaluate internal controls, document audit findings, and ensure evidence and conclusions are properly supported.Technical Skills:Strong knowledge of accounting procedures, employee benefit plans, and auditing standards. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).Benefits:Transport Allowance: Convenient transportation options provided to and from the officeMeals: Complimentary meals provided during working hours.Shift Allowance: As per Company NormsAdditional Perks: Opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and mentoring within a supportive and dynamic team.