Program Manager, Income Tax

Company Description

Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than 30,000 team members and over 750 retail and fueling locations in 44 states and six Canadian provinces. Our energy and logistics division serves as a top supplier of fuel, employing one of the largest tanker fleets and providing critical services to oil operations in our nation's busiest basins. Pilot Company supports a growing portfolio of brands with expertise in supply chain and retail operations, logistics and transportation, technology and digital innovation, construction, maintenance, human resources, finance, sales and marketing.

Founded in 1958 by Jim A. Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and commitment to giving back remains true to us today. Whether we are serving guests, a fellow team member, or a trucking company, we are dedicated to fueling people and keeping North America moving.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Military encouraged to apply.

Job Description

The Advanced Accountant, Income Tax is responsible for preparing, analyzing, and reviewing federal, state, and local income tax filings, as well as supporting tax planning, compliance, and audit activities. This role requires strong technical tax knowledge, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to interpret complex tax regulations. The Advanced Accountant partners closely with Finance, Accounting, and external advisors to ensure accurate reporting, timely filings, and adherence to all applicable tax laws.

This position plays a key role in the quarterly and annual tax provision process, supports research on tax issues, and contributes to process improvements that enhance accuracy and efficiency within the tax function.

1. Supervise and provide daily oversight of the income tax team; select, coach, and train staff (potential to have1-2 direct reports in future state)
2. Prepare and review federal, state and local income tax returns and calculations involving complex issues with a focus on flow-through taxation
3. Research and analyze technical tax issues and assist in developing solutions to changing needs of the department
4. Liaise with accounting department and ERP system to ensure information is recorded to facilitate compliance requirements
5. Adhere the company’s internal control environment, ensuring compliance with SOX and internal policies
6. Partner with leader to review and prepare responses to notices and audit information requests from various federal, state and local authorities
7. Solve complex income tax related issues
8. Mentor and develop a high performing tax team
9. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

Qualifications

We are seeking applicants with a local presence in Knoxville TN and the surrounding communities.

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.  To be considered you must have the legal right to work in United States without additional sponsorship 

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
• CPA or progress toward CPA preferred
• 3–5+ years of income tax experience in public accounting or corporate tax
• Strong understanding of federal and state income tax laws and regulations.

Specialized Knowledge

• Experience with ASC 740 and tax provision processes a plus
• Proficiency with tax compliance software and ERP systems
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex tax data
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across teams

Competencies

• Technical tax expertise
• Time management and ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment while working autonomously
• Critical thinking and ability to proactively identify potential problems and mitigate existing issues. 

• Strategic thinking and sound judgment
• High integrity and commitment to accuracy
• Analytical thinking and problem‑solving
• Strong organization and documentation skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Collaboration and cross‑functional partnership
• Continuous improvement mindset

Additional Information

Travel                        

Travel required less than 5%

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• General office work requiring sitting or standing for long periods of time
• Lift up to 10 pounds
• Work extended hours to meet deadlines as required