Estate Administrator

The Estate Administrator will be responsible for all phases of the administration of a specific book of assigned estates in accordance with Department and Firm policies and procedures.

Job Functions:Estimates value of all assets of the estate, debts of the decedent, costs of administration and estate taxes to determine cash needs for estate.Collects all assets of the decedent and arranges payment of debts of the decedent and federal and state estate taxes, income taxes and other expenses of administration.Applies strong working knowledge of key estate tax concepts, including QTIP elections, GST allocations and apportionment of estate taxes among trusts and estate beneficiaries.Prepares federal, Massachusetts and other state estate tax returns.Participates in federal and/or state estate tax audits with the responsible attorney.Arranges for the distribution of the estate assets in accordance with the terms of the estate plan, applicable statutes and/or beneficiary designations, and originates trust-funding plan. Prepares and files all probate forms and accountings for the estate with the applicable Registry of Probate.Consults with the responsible attorney on a continual basis to ensure the attorney is informed on all aspects of the administration and all procedural deadlines are met.Establishes and maintains an effective working relationship with the clients and related advisors and other professionals to obtain and provide information and respond to any concerns or questions.Participates in training and development initiatives, including outside and in-house educational programs, consultation with attorneys and colleagues.Maintains complete file for each assigned estate. Reports to the Estate & Trust Administration Manager the status and issues relating to the administration of their assigned estates.

Essential Competencies:Works proactively with others to support efforts within a department or function of the Firm.Organizes and prioritizes assignments and serves as a department liaison to ensure collaborative efforts result in meeting or exceeding goals and standards.Maintains current knowledge of trends and developments affecting the area of specialization.Uses innovative thinking and exercises sound judgment to achieve results.

Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Finance or related field required or equivalent work experience.Five + years of estate settlement experience.Exceptional written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.Proven ability to think quickly in a fast-paced environment. Strong organizational, problem solving and analytical skills.Ability to work in a multi-task environment with minimum supervision.Proficient use of various software packages, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Knowledge of SE2 Trust Accounting System or similar, SEI/SWP, GEMS, TrustEase, CCH ProSystem FX, Zane Software, CCH ViewPlan, ZCalc, or similar systems beneficial.

Physical Requirements:Must have minimal physical mobility. Position may occasionally require standing, walking, reaching, and lifting up to 15 pounds.Must have the ability to operate equipment such as a computer and copy machine.Must have the ability to communicate clearly and to read and follow detailed instructions.Must have the ability to prepare assorted documents and other related materials. Must have the ability to work in stressful conditions under time deadlines.