What's Happening?
CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA), a top 10 national professional services firm, is actively recruiting Tax and Audit Interns for the Winter 2028 term in its West Hartford and Shelton, CT offices. The firm emphasizes its commitment to fostering a culture that
embraces diverse beliefs and perspectives, aiming to serve clients, communities, and employees effectively. Interns will be responsible for preparing various tax returns, performing audit, review, compilation, and assurance services, and supporting multiple client engagements. The role involves gaining experience with procedures, workpapers, and systems, expanding industry knowledge through training, and completing research and special projects. Compensation for this position in Connecticut is listed between $31 and $33 per hour. The anticipated start date for these internships is January 2028, with an expected end date in April 2028. Candidates are encouraged to apply, with applications being reviewed after the posting closes to ensure a fair and consistent selection process.
Why It's Important?
The recruitment drive by CliftonLarsonAllen for Tax and Audit Interns is significant for several reasons. For students pursuing degrees in Accounting, Finance, or related fields, it offers a crucial opportunity to gain practical experience within a major professional services firm. This hands-on exposure to tax preparation, audit services, and client engagement is invaluable for career development and meeting CPA exam eligibility requirements. For CLA, these internships are a vital component of their talent pipeline, allowing them to identify and nurture future professionals who align with their values of curiosity, collaboration, transparency, inclusivity, and reliability. The competitive hourly wage offered also reflects the firm's investment in its people, potentially attracting high-caliber candidates and contributing to the local economy in Connecticut by providing paid professional development opportunities. This initiative helps bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application in the accounting and finance sectors.
What's Next?
Following the application period, CLA will review submissions and contact selected candidates for interviews. Successful applicants will commence their internships in January 2028, continuing through April 2028. During this period, interns will engage in a structured program designed to develop their skills in tax and audit services, client communication, and industry knowledge. The firm's emphasis on mentorship and career growth suggests that these internships could lead to future employment opportunities within CLA for high-performing individuals. The experience gained will also be beneficial for interns seeking roles in other accounting or finance firms. CLA's ongoing commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce indicates that future recruitment efforts will likely continue to prioritize candidates who embody these values, further shaping the professional landscape in the accounting sector.
Beyond the Headlines
This internship program by CliftonLarsonAllen highlights a broader trend in the professional services industry: the strategic importance of early talent acquisition and development. By offering comprehensive internships, firms like CLA are not just filling immediate staffing needs but are also investing in the long-term sustainability and expertise of their workforce. The focus on 'truly knowing and helping' clients, communities, and each other underscores a shift towards more holistic and values-driven corporate cultures, where professional services extend beyond technical tasks to include social responsibility and employee well-being. Furthermore, the emphasis on agility in navigating complex tax issues suggests a recognition of the dynamic nature of the financial landscape, requiring continuous learning and adaptability from its professionals. This approach helps ensure that the next generation of accountants and financial advisors are not only technically proficient but also ethically grounded and socially aware.
