Associate Accountant - Zakat & Tax

Job Purpose

To support the Zakat & Tax Manager in ensuring full compliance with zakat and tax regulations in Saudi Arabia. This role involves the preparation and submission of tax returns, maintaining accurate documentation, and supporting audits. The position is critical in ensuring alignment with ZATCA regulations and supporting accurate financial reporting.

About the Role

The Zakat & Tax Associate will assist in the preparation and submission of zakat and tax returns in compliance with ZATCA requirements. Responsibilities include calculating zakat, VAT, and withholding tax, maintaining proper documentation, and monitoring regulatory updates to ensure timely implementation of changes.

Key Responsibilities Zakat & Tax Compliance

• Assist in the preparation and submission of zakat, VAT, and withholding tax returns in accordance with ZATCA regulations.
• Support accurate calculation of all relevant taxes and ensure timely payment.
• Maintain proper documentation and ensure systematic archiving of all tax-related records.
• Monitor updates to tax laws and support the implementation of regulatory changes.

Audit & Reporting

• Assist in handling tax audits, inspections, and responding to queries from ZATCA.
• Prepare supporting schedules and reconciliations for both internal and external audits.
• Contribute to month-end and year-end closing activities, ensuring accuracy of tax-related entries.

Coordination & Support

• Collaborate with internal teams (accounts payable, receivables, general ledger) to ensure correct tax treatment of transactions.
• Coordinate with external auditors and tax consultants as needed.
• Provide timely updates and reports to management on zakat and tax matters.

Qualifications Education & Certification

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance.
• SOCPA certification (or in progress) is an advantage.

Experience

• 2-5 years of experience in accounting, with a focus on zakat and tax preferred.
• Practical experience in preparing VAT and zakat filings within Saudi Arabia.
• Familiarity with ZATCA portals and systems is preferred.

Required Skills Technical Skills

• Solid understanding of Saudi tax and zakat regulations.
• Proficiency in ERP systems.
• Advanced Excel skills and strong analytical capabilities.

Soft Skills

• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong communication skills for interaction with internal teams and external regulators.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Fluency in both Arabic and English (written and spoken).