UI Tax Field Representative

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI Tax Field Representative

Company: State of Nebraska

Location: Grand Island, NE, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Revenue Operations / Tax Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-07

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Manages and processes employer unemployment insurance tax accounts, ensuring compliance with state regulations.

• Conducts investigations into employer status, liability, and potential discrepancies to maintain the integrity of the UI tax system.

• Performs payroll verification audits and collection activities to secure delinquent taxes and interest.

• Advises employers, attorneys, and accountants on various facets of the Employment Security Law.

• Utilizes a range of Microsoft Office applications and specialized audit software for daily tasks and reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "UI Tax Field Representative," the responsibilities heavily lean into operational aspects of tax compliance, account management, and audit procedures, aligning it with Revenue Operations and specifically Tax Operations within a government context. The "Field" aspect implies on-site client interaction and investigation, which is a critical component of the operational workflow.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive status investigations to determine employer liability under Unemployment Insurance Tax Laws, initiating appropriate actions for account transfers and business status inquiries (e.g., bankruptcy, dissolution).

• Investigate claims of independent contractor status, ensuring accurate classification and adherence to labor laws.

• Author detailed investigation reports, documenting findings and recommended actions for tax liability and compliance.

• Perform rigorous verification of employer records, resolving discrepancies between federal and state reports and confirming accurate payroll figures.

• Execute payroll verification audits to safeguard the integrity of the UI tax system, collecting necessary information from employers.

• Initiate audit actions based on suspected errors or fraudulent activity identified during record verifications.

• Actively collect delinquent employer report forms and outstanding taxes, including interest due, to ensure timely revenue collection.

• Conduct investigations to locate employers who have become unresponsive or difficult to find, facilitating collection efforts.

• Negotiate and establish payment plans with employers to manage delinquent tax obligations effectively.

• Research property records to identify ownership for potential replacement of real estate liens, securing tax debts.

• Review employer records to determine accurate wage credits entitled to claimants, ensuring fair distribution of benefits.

• Interview claimants to verify employment dates and wage payments, supporting accurate benefit calculations.

• Advise employers, attorneys, and accountants on all aspects of the Employment Security Law, providing guidance on compliance and reporting.

• Assist employers in completing necessary forms, computing voluntary tax payments, and understanding rate computations.

• Respond to inquiries from other taxing authorities and refer employers to appropriate resources for specific actions.

• Utilize a laptop computer in a Microsoft Windows 10 Enterprise environment, leveraging Excel, Word, Access, and Outlook for daily operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are extensive and cover the full lifecycle of employer tax account management, from initial registration and liability determination to ongoing compliance, auditing, collections, and advisory services. This depth is characteristic of a role that requires strong operational process execution and problem-solving skills within a regulated environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Post-high school coursework/training in public or business administration, finance, accounting, social/behavioral sciences, or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of two years of experience in employment services, unemployment insurance, or human services, with responsibilities involving:
  • Interviewing individuals to gather information.
  • Analyzing and/or evaluating data to draw conclusions.
  • Assessing documents and records for accuracy and completeness.

Required Skills:

• Strong understanding of Unemployment Insurance (UI) tax laws and Employment Security Law principles.

• Proficiency in conducting investigations and status inquiries for employer tax liability.

• Experience with payroll verification and audit processes to ensure data accuracy.

• Demonstrated ability in collections, including negotiating payment plans and recovering delinquent accounts.

• Excellent interviewing and fact-finding techniques for eliciting essential information.

• Critical thinking and analytical skills to make independent decisions and draw sound conclusions.

• Ability to interpret, apply, and explain complex laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically:

  • Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting.
  • Microsoft Word for report writing and documentation.
  • Microsoft Access for database management and record-keeping.
  • Microsoft Outlook for professional communication.

• Strong report writing capabilities, presenting findings clearly and precisely.

• Ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

Preferred Skills:

• Post-high school education with a focus on communications, speech, or psychology.

• Three years of experience in fields such as accounting, bookkeeping, credit, or financial institutions.

• Experience working within a regulated environment or with the public on problem resolution or collections.

• Advanced proficiency with personal computers and operating systems, particularly Windows 10 Enterprise.

• Spanish/English bilingual skills are highly preferred, enhancing communication with a broader employer base.

• Ability to lift and transport a laptop computer.

📝 Enhancement Note: The preferred qualifications highlight a desire for candidates with a deeper understanding of financial and communication principles, suggesting a leaning towards roles that require not just procedural execution but also strategic advisory and advanced analytical capabilities within tax operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies in Status Investigation: Demonstrate experience in investigating employer status, determining liability, and documenting findings with clear conclusions and actions taken. Quantify the impact of these investigations (e.g., revenue recovered, compliance improved).

• Audit Process Documentation: Showcase examples of conducting payroll verification audits, highlighting the methodology used, the systems/tools employed, and how discrepancies were identified and resolved. Include metrics on audit efficiency or findings.

• Collections & Payment Plan Negotiation Examples: Provide case studies detailing successful collection efforts for delinquent taxes and interest, including examples of negotiated payment plans and their successful execution.

• System Process Improvement Examples: If applicable, present instances where you identified inefficiencies in tax account management, wage reporting, or system processes and implemented improvements, detailing the "before" and "after" states and quantifiable results.

• Advisory & Communication Samples: Include examples or descriptions of how you have advised employers or stakeholders on complex regulations, demonstrating clarity, accuracy, and effectiveness in communication.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Evidence of understanding and potentially designing workflows for tax account management, status investigations, audits, and collections.

• Implementation & Automation: Examples of how new processes or system functionalities were implemented, or how existing processes were streamlined to improve efficiency.

• Measurement & Analysis: Demonstrating how the effectiveness of operational processes was measured, including the use of key performance indicators (KPIs) related to tax collection, audit completion rates, and employer compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role involving field investigations and complex case management, a portfolio that illustrates practical application of skills through detailed case studies is crucial. It should highlight problem-solving, analytical rigor, and the ability to translate operational procedures into tangible business outcomes for the State.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

$24.103 per hour. This equates to an estimated annual salary of $49,974.24 for a standard 40-hour work week, not including potential overtime or additional compensation.

Benefits:

• Paid Time Off: 13 paid holidays, vacation leave, and sick leave that begin accruing immediately.

• Retirement: 156% state-matched retirement plan, offering significant long-term financial benefits.

• Education: Tuition reimbursement program to support ongoing professional development.

• Well-being: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential support services.

• Health Insurance: 79% employer-paid health insurance plans, alongside dental and vision insurance plans.

• Life Insurance: Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy.

• Loan Forgiveness: Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government.

• Career Growth: Wide variety and availability of career advancement opportunities within the State of Nebraska.

• Training: Access to training and development programs tailored to career aspirations.

Working Hours:

• Standard work schedule: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

• Totaling 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly rate of $24.103 positions this role as an entry to mid-level position within the state government's operational framework. The comprehensive benefits package, particularly the generous retirement match and health insurance contributions, significantly enhances the total compensation and represents a substantial value proposition for public service roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government / Public Sector (Labor & Employment Services)

Company Size: Large (State of Nebraska is the largest employer in the state)

Founded: The State of Nebraska, as a governmental entity, has a long history, with the Department of Labor established to administer labor laws and programs.

Team Structure:

• Operations Division: This role is part of the UI Tax Operations Division within the Department of Labor.

• Specialization: The division focuses on managing employer unemployment insurance tax accounts, wage reporting, and related system processes.

• Reporting: The UI Tax Field Representative will report to a supervisor within the UI Tax Operations Division, likely a Tax Administrator or Supervisor.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Expected to collaborate with other state agencies, employers, attorneys, accountants, and potentially claimants to gather information, resolve discrepancies, and ensure compliance.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Investigations: Emphasizes thorough investigation and verification of employer records and wage data to ensure accuracy and fairness.

• Process Adherence: Relies on established procedures and legal frameworks (Nebraska Employment Security Law) for all operational tasks, from audits to collections.

• Public Service Focus: Operates with a mission to serve the public, ensuring the integrity of the unemployment insurance system for both employers and claimants.

• Systematic Record Management: Utilizes digital tools and reporting mechanisms to manage and track employer accounts and compliance status.

Company Website: https://www.nebraska.gov/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a state government agency like the Department of Labor means operating within a structured, regulated, and process-driven environment focused on public service. The culture likely values diligence, adherence to policy, and a commitment to fairness and accuracy in managing public funds and employment services.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Operations Specialist

This role represents a solid mid-level opportunity within government operations, focusing on specialized tax and compliance functions. It involves independent work, data analysis, investigation, and direct interaction with external stakeholders, requiring a blend of analytical and interpersonal skills. The "Field Representative" aspect adds a layer of autonomy and investigative responsibility.

Reporting Structure:

The UI Tax Field Representative will report to a supervisor within the UI Tax Operations Division. This structure provides guidance and oversight for complex cases and ensures adherence to state regulations and departmental policies. Collaboration with peers in the division and other taxing authorities is also expected.

Operations Impact:

This role directly impacts the financial integrity and operational efficiency of the Unemployment Insurance system. By ensuring accurate tax collection, verifying wage data, and investigating compliance, the representative contributes to:

• Revenue Generation: Securing necessary funds for unemployment benefits.

• System Integrity: Preventing fraud and ensuring fair treatment for all employers and claimants.

• Economic Stability: Supporting the state's workforce through the effective administration of unemployment programs.

• Compliance Enforcement: Upholding state labor laws and regulations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement within Tax Operations: Potential to move into senior Tax Representative roles, specialized audit positions, or supervisory roles within the UI Tax Operations Division.

• Cross-Departmental Mobility: Opportunities to transfer to other divisions within the Department of Labor or other state agencies, leveraging acquired skills in administration, finance, or public service.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in tax law, audit techniques, investigative procedures, and advanced use of government systems and software.

• Leadership Potential: Demonstrating strong performance, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication can lead to opportunities for team leadership or project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: While government roles may sometimes be perceived as having slower advancement, the State of Nebraska's emphasis on career advancement and training suggests a supportive environment for growth. The blend of investigative, analytical, and advisory duties provides a strong foundation for various operational and administrative career paths.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid On-site with Field Work

The primary work location is an office in Grand Island, NE. However, the "Field Representative" title indicates significant time will be spent off-site, conducting investigations, audits, and collections directly with employers.

Office Location(s):

• Primary Office: 203 East Stolley Park Rd., Suite A, Grand Island, NE. This location serves as the base for administrative tasks, reporting, and team coordination.

Workspace Context:

• Office Setting: Standard office environment with access to necessary equipment, including a laptop, phone, and potentially shared workspaces for team meetings and administrative tasks.

• Field Setting: Requires adaptability to different employer environments, professionalism in client interactions, and the ability to conduct investigations and audits effectively on-site.

• Technology Integration: Heavy reliance on a provided laptop (Windows 10 Enterprise) equipped with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Access, Outlook) for data management, reporting, and communication.

• Collaborative Opportunities: Regular interaction with supervisors and colleagues within the Grand Island office for guidance, team projects, and knowledge sharing.

Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.

• The nature of field work may require some flexibility in scheduling to accommodate employer availability, but the core hours remain consistent.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role, coupled with the field component, offers a dynamic work experience. It combines the structure of an office environment with the autonomy and diverse interactions of field operations, appealing to individuals who thrive on both methodical work and independent problem-solving in various settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Application Submission: Submit resume and any required documentation through the State of Nebraska's Workday portal.

2. Initial Screening: Applications will be reviewed to ensure minimum qualifications are met. Candidates with preferred qualifications will be prioritized.

3. Written Assessment/Case Study: Potentially a written exercise or case study focused on tax investigation, audit principles, or problem-solving scenarios relevant to UI tax law.

4. Interview Panel: Candidates may undergo one or more interviews, likely with a hiring manager and potentially other team members or HR representatives. Questions will focus on experience, behavioral competencies, and technical knowledge related to tax operations, investigation, and collections.

5. Background Check: Successful candidates will undergo a Federal Background Check, including fingerprinting.

6. Offer Extension: A formal offer of employment will be extended to the selected candidate.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Investigative Process: For each case study, clearly outline the steps taken during an investigation, from initial information gathering to conclusion and reporting.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the results of your work. For example, "Successfully collected $X in delinquent taxes," "Identified Y discrepancies leading to adjusted tax liability of $Z," or "Completed X audits per quarter, exceeding the target by Y%."

• Highlight System Proficiency: Explicitly mention the tools and systems used (e.g., Microsoft Excel for data analysis, Access for record management) and how they contributed to efficiency or accuracy.

• Demonstrate Communication Skills: Include examples or descriptions of how you effectively communicated complex tax information to diverse stakeholders (employers, legal counsel).

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by responsibility area (e.g., Investigations, Audits, Collections, Advisory). Use clear headings and concise descriptions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand UI Tax Law: Familiarize yourself with the core principles of the Nebraska Employment Security

Law, including employer liability, wage reporting requirements, and penalty structures.

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Be ready to discuss situations where you had to:

  • Handle difficult interactions with employers or clients.
  • Investigate complex financial discrepancies.
  • Make independent decisions under pressure.
  • Manage multiple competing priorities.
  • Ensure accuracy in detailed record-keeping.

• Practice Case Study Scenarios: Think through hypothetical situations related to employer status investigations, payroll audit findings, or collection challenges. Outline your approach, the data you'd need, and how you'd reach a conclusion.

• Research the State of Nebraska's Department of Labor: Understand their mission, values, and the broader context of unemployment insurance services.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Field Representative" nature, expect interview questions to probe your ability to work independently, manage your time effectively, and represent the State professionally in external interactions. The portfolio should strongly emphasize tangible results and process proficiency.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Windows 10 Enterprise: The core operating system for the assigned laptop.

• Microsoft Excel: Essential for data analysis, creating reports, tracking audits, and managing spreadsheets of employer information. Proficiency in functions, pivot tables, and data visualization is key.

• Microsoft Word: Used for writing detailed investigation reports, official correspondence, and documentation.

• Microsoft Access: Likely utilized for managing databases of employer accounts, audit findings, and collection records. Ability to query and maintain databases is beneficial.

• Microsoft Outlook: Standard tool for professional email communication, scheduling, and task management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal State Databases: Proprietary systems managed by the Department of Labor for unemployment insurance tax accounts, wage records, and claimant information.

• Reporting Tools: Potentially internal reporting dashboards or ad-hoc reporting capabilities within Access or Excel to generate summaries of audit findings, collection status, and compliance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a traditional CRM, the internal systems function similarly to manage employer relationships and compliance status.

• Automation: Opportunities for process automation may exist within Excel or Access through macros or scripting, though formal automation tools might not be explicitly required for this role. The focus is more on efficient manual process execution and data integrity.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite, particularly Excel and Access, is critical. The role emphasizes effective use of these standard office productivity tools for data management, analysis, and reporting within a government operational context. Familiarity with database concepts is a strong plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Accuracy: Upholding the highest standards of accuracy in financial records, audits, and legal interpretations. This is paramount in public service and tax administration.

• Fairness & Equity: Ensuring that all employers are treated consistently under the law and that claimants receive the benefits they are entitled to.

• Efficiency & Accountability: Managing processes effectively to ensure timely tax collection, audit completion, and prompt resolution of employer inquiries, while being accountable for individual performance.

• Public Service: A strong commitment to serving the citizens of Nebraska by maintaining a stable and effective unemployment insurance system.

• Diligence & Thoroughness: Approaching investigations, audits, and problem-solving with meticulous attention to detail.

Collaboration Style:

• Structured Communication: Interactions are likely professional and adhere to established protocols, especially when dealing with external parties.

• Team-Oriented Problem Solving: While individual responsibilities are clear, there's an expectation to collaborate with supervisors and colleagues to resolve complex cases or share best practices.

• Advisory Role: A willingness to help employers and internal staff understand and comply with complex regulations, acting as a resource.

• Process Improvement Focus: An openness to feedback and suggestions that can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of operational processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture within a state government agency like the Department of Labor typically emphasizes adherence to policy, a strong sense of public duty, and a commitment to accuracy and fairness. Collaboration is professional, and decision-making is often guided by legal frameworks and established procedures.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Understanding and applying the nuances of Nebraska's Employment Security Law, which can be intricate and subject to change.

• Managing Difficult Stakeholders: Interacting with employers who may be delinquent on taxes, resistant to audits, or have complex financial situations, requiring strong negotiation and de-escalation skills.

• Field Work Demands: Balancing office-based administrative tasks with the logistical and time management requirements of conducting on-site investigations and audits.

• Data Integrity & Discrepancy Resolution: Investigating and resolving discrepancies in wage reporting and payroll data, which can be time-consuming and require meticulous attention to detail.

• Staying Current: Keeping abreast of changes in tax laws, reporting requirements, and technological tools used for operations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to training programs specific to unemployment insurance tax law, audit techniques, investigative procedures, and collection strategies.

• System Proficiency: Opportunities to become an expert user of the Department's internal systems and associated software.

• Professional Networking: Building relationships with other tax professionals within the state and potentially at federal agencies.

• Career Path Development: Mentorship and guidance from experienced supervisors and colleagues on career progression within the Department of Labor and the broader state government.

• Public Service Impact: The inherent growth opportunity of contributing to a vital public service that supports the state's economy and workforce.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are typical of tax and compliance positions: navigating complex rules, dealing with diverse stakeholders, and ensuring data accuracy. The growth opportunities are rooted in developing specialized expertise within government operations and leveraging that for career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to investigate a complex financial discrepancy. What steps did you take, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your investigative process, analytical skills, and problem-solving approach.)

• "How would you approach collecting delinquent taxes from an employer who claims they cannot afford to pay?" (Assess your negotiation skills, understanding of payment plans, and ability to balance enforcement with support.)

• "Imagine you are advising an employer on a new reporting requirement. How would you ensure they understand and comply with the law?" (Evaluate your communication clarity, ability to interpret and explain regulations, and advisory skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for the State of Nebraska and specifically the Department of Labor?" (Show genuine interest in public service and the department's mission.)

• "How do you handle working independently and managing your own schedule, especially when performing field duties?" (Demonstrate self-motivation, time management, and organizational skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Key Cases: Select 2-3 of your most impactful cases that best represent your skills in investigation, audit, collections, or advisory.

• Structure with STAR Method: For each case, use the Situation, Task, Action, Result framework to clearly articulate the context, your role, the actions you took, and the positive outcomes.

• Quantify Results: Use numbers and metrics whenever possible to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., revenue collected, efficiency gained, compliance improved).

• Showcase Process: Explain the operational processes you followed and how you used tools like Excel or Access to support your work.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your methodology, challenges faced, and how you might handle similar situations in the future.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of tax operations principles, investigative techniques, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly. Emphasize your experience with data analysis, problem-solving, and maintaining accuracy in a regulated environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the State of Nebraska's Workday career portal, ensuring your resume and any requested supporting documents are uploaded.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight specific experiences and skills that directly align with the job description's requirements, such as tax account management, payroll verification, collections, interviewing, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Use keywords from the job posting.

• Prepare a Concise Portfolio: Select 2-3 strong examples of your work that showcase your investigative, analytical, and problem-solving abilities. Focus on quantifiable results and the processes you followed. Be ready to discuss these examples in detail.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method. Think about examples related to handling difficult situations, managing deadlines, and ensuring accuracy in your work.

• Research the Department: Familiarize yourself with the mission and values of the State of Nebraska Department of Labor, particularly concerning unemployment insurance and employer services. Understand the importance of this role in public service.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.