Job Specification Details

This is the third in a series of four positions within the State Auditor's Office. Progression and promotion through the series of four positions is based upon demonstration of key skills and certain core competencies. The Senior Auditor position involves administrative, technical and complex auditing work at a professional level in planning, developing and conducting audit programs for the Auditor of Accounts Office. These audits include performance audits on a variety of topics. Performance audits entail an objective and systematic examination of evidence to provide an independent assessment by the SAO of the performance and management of a public program. Duties also include conducting interviews, analyzing evidence and information to draw conclusions, the development of work-papers for support of the analysis, and drafting assigned sections of reports, including findings and recommendations to correct discovered issues. Work is performed under the general direction of Supervisor Auditors or audit managers.

This position assists with planning, developing and executing performance and compliance audits for agencies and programs within the State of Vermont, according to Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS). May serve as an audit team leader developing the audit program in conjunction with Supervisor Auditors or with an audit manager. May be required to review work-papers of fellow team members and to research topical areas and make suggestions. Performs related duties as required. The audit work may involve any aspect of a multi-billion dollar per year organization comprised of over 60 organizational units which employ over 8,000 workers performing a wide range of jobs. The position performs audit procedures designed to assess (1) the extent to which programs and organizations are achieving their objectives efficiently and effectively, (2) the adequacy of the internal controls in place within organizational units, and (3) individual entities' compliance with state and federal laws and regulations. The work requires an understanding of complex auditing concepts and the ability to apply them to specific situations and government units. The position develops and maintains productive working relationships with the management and staff of the entities being audited, including maintaining contact with key contacts throughout the year. The position assists in designing the approach to audits and coaches staff, providing performance feedback and training. This position may represent the State Auditor with one or more state agencies (e.g., Agency of Natural Resources or Agency of Transportation), and as such, interfaces with various senior members of the agencies regarding audit approach, conduct of the audit, discussion of findings and monitoring of agency/department corrective action plans. This position manages multiple tasks, prioritizing time and communicating potential conflicts to supervisors.

REPRESENTATIVE TASKS:

*Conducts complex performance audits of State entities and programs to assess performance and compliance with federal/state laws, rules and regulations, and internal policies. With oversight from audit managers and/or Audit Supervisors, ensures audits are conducted in accordance with GAGAS.

*Gathers and analyzes complex data on state operations and services. Develops methodologies appropriate for audit objectives.

* Evaluates internal controls to identify areas of risk and documents areas for improvement.

*Performs details audit tests. Assembles audit schedules, tables, exhibits, and documentation in order to support audit findings and conclusions. Delivers quality work product with minimal errors and in compliance with State Auditor's Office performance audit standards.

* Approaches auditee interactions in a professional and organized manner and delivers clear requests for information. Conducts interviews and elicits pertinent data, information, records, and/or documentation to support audit research, analysis, and subsequent reports.

* Develops evidence that supports all elements of a finding (criteria, condition, cause and effect) in order to provide relevant recommendations.

* Drafts assigned sections of audit reports in conformance with State Auditor's Office performance audit standards.

*Shares information and expertise with team members by providing coaching to Staff Auditors I and II.

* Leads Staff Auditors I and II on less complex group assignments, discusses work progress, assigns specific tasks, and oversees completion of the audit program.

* Guides Staff Auditors on the application of the State Auditor's Professional Standards Manual.

Duties are performed in a standard office setting or in the field. Significant pressure from deadlines is present. Occasional in-state travel may be necessary, and incumbents should have private means of transportation available. Some overtime work may be required. Managing the audit to successful completion may heighten stress levels in order to meet tight deadlines. Some audit situations may assume a somewhat adversarial nature, requiring significant tact and persistence to complete a successful audit.

Intermediate knowledge of auditing principles, practices and procedures and financial concepts.

Intermediate knowledge of generally accepted government auditing standards (GAGAS).

Able to think analytically and synthesize quantities of information to arrive at an evidence-based conclusion.

Ability to collect, compile, analyze, interpret and present data in both written and verbal forms.

Able to prepare factual, clear, and comprehensive audit documentation to support conclusions, draft findings and recommendations.

Ability to work in a self-directed manner while conducting audits of governmental units or agencies.

Master's degree or J.D. AND three (3) years or more of professional auditing experience.

OR

Bachelor's degree AND five (5) years or more of professional auditing experience.

Professional Certification: Specialized audit certification that requires passing an examination and maintaining certification through continuing education (e.g. CPA, Chartered Accountant, CIA, CISA, CFE) is preferred.

Preference may be given to applicants with government performance auditing experience.

Preference may be given to applicants with a master's degree.

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