State and Local Tax, Associate Director, Teaneck,NJ-FrankWBurr Blvd, New Jersey, United States

About Cognizant Corporate

Cognizant Corporate is a global community united by a shared purpose: to make a meaningful impact. We are committed to excellence and driven by outcomes that matter. Collaboration is at the heart of how we work, and our forward-thinking mindset fuels continuous learning, innovation, and growth.

At Cognizant, careers transcend titles. We empower our people to think strategically, inspire others, and lead with purpose – always guided by our core values. Join us in shaping future of business. Could you be the one to make a difference?

About the role

As an Assistant Director, State and Local Tax, you will drive impactful contributions and focus on outcomes. You will be a key member of the Global Tax team, collaborating with senior tax leadership and cross-functional stakeholders. You will have the autonomy to lead, innovate, and improve workflows while upholding our commitment to quality and continuous learning.

As a team of self-starters, you can work with impact with our vibrant people and culture all while enjoying unmatched learning opportunities.

In this role, you will:

Oversee all state and local direct and indirect tax matters, including income, franchise, sales/use, and property taxes
Lead state and local tax planning initiatives and manage audits across multiple jurisdictions
Coordinate state income tax rate calculations with the global tax accounting team and review tax provisions and filings
Manage tax implications of acquisitions, including integration, uncertain tax positions, and mitigation strategies
Drive process improvements, automation, and standardization of tax compliance, reporting, and audit support activities

Embrace our vibrant culture by striving for excellence, focusing on meaningful outcomes, and collaborating effectively. Prioritize quality, stay curious, and commit to continuous learning. Take ownership, build relationships, and focus on personal growth to drive business strategy and impactful work.

What you must have to be considered

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting
Minimum of 8 years of experience in a corporate tax function, including public accounting or law firm experience
Strong experience in U.S. state and local tax, including direct and indirect taxes
Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
Experience with financial and tax systems such as Oracle, Hyperion Financial Manager, or PeopleSoft

A strong sense of ownership, desire to create meaningful outcomes, and passion for work that serves a greater good for customers, communities, or global challenges.

The embodiment of Cognizant’s Values of: Work as One, Dare to Innovate, Raise the Bar, Do The Right Thing, & Own It

These will help you succeed

CPA, JD, or Master of Taxation preferred
Knowledge of indirect tax engines such as Vertex or similar tools
Strong management and leadership capabilities with a hands-on approach
Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
Ability to work effectively across multiple teams and business functions

Work model – Onsite

At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible, and we are here to support a healthy work-life balance through our various wellbeing programs. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is an onsite position requiring presence in a Cognizant or client office in Bergen County, NJ.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you’re engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured; we will always be clear about role expectations.

Work Authorization

Must be legally authorized to work in the country without the need for employer sponsorship, now or any time in the future.

What we offer

The chance to work with impact. Here, you’re empowered to bring your biggest thinking to help our company and clients improve everyday life.
Ownership over your career. Stay at the top of your game through our award-winning learning and development ecosystem. And when your ambitions change or we offer new opportunities, we help you pivot by providing reskilling, on-the-job learning and guidance to find new roles that might be a better fit.
The opportunity to thrive on a high caliber team with heart. We celebrate each other’s experiences and perspectives and promote a sense of belonging through our affinity groups and diversity and inclusion initiatives.
A comprehensive total rewards package, including a competitive salary and a pension plan with matching contributions.
Flexible health and financial benefits to support you and your eligible dependents—from day one.
True work-life balance. Be at your best through paid time off, flexible work arrangements, volunteering opportunities, social events, and so much more.

About us
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, building the bridge between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, realize tangible returns and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at www.cognizant.com or @cognizant.

Other employment-related information
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, provincial or local laws.

If you have a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or submit an application, please email [email protected] with your request and contact information.

Language requirements vary depending on roles, but we ask that all candidates have basic English proficiency for company-wide communications purposes. For roles based in Quebec, professional English proficiency is required, as you’ll deliver services to and collaborate with stakeholders outside the province who may not speak French.