5261 external auditor jobs found

everything you need to know about external auditors.

External auditors play a key role in helping to maintain the accuracy of business financial records. Auditors are used in a variety of situations, often when the authenticity of records are in question. Many external auditors work independently or for public or private finance companies. Your main role is to assess financial records in question, and form an opinion based on your findings. Therefore, you will need to be meticulous, pay attention to detail and maintain an objective stance when auditing company records.

average external auditor salaries in the U.S.

External auditor salaries will vary based on location and experience. On the low end of the salary scale, you can expect to make $54,000. The salary scale for this position tops out at about $112,000 per year. Performance bonuses are often included in compensation packages. Experience in accounting and internal auditing is associated with higher salaries in this career path. 

what external auditor jobs entail

External auditors work in an office environment. However, you may spend a lot of your time working in multiple locations to accommodate clients. Traveling to and meeting with clients is part of your job. You can expect to work normal office hours but also expect to work evenings and weekends when working on special projects or to meet business deadlines. Where you work will determine who you will report to. Often you will report to a senior auditor if you work for a government agency or finance consulting firm. 

your day-to-day tasks

Your responsibilities as an external auditor will vary on a case-by-case basis. Your tasks are often defined based on what you are exploring and the job you were hired to complete. In general, here are the tasks that will be included in your job description as an external auditor:

• Plan and execute the auditing process.
• Analyze financial data.
• Ensure financial records are in compliance with rules and regulations.
• Offer suggestions to improve records management and accuracy.
• Inspect internal systems, controls and processes.
• Work collaboratively with the auditing team.
• Prepare reports and auditing findings.
• Consult with company/client representatives.
• Inspect financial statements for errors and omissions.
• Explain audit findings and answer questions related to audit findings.

where you can work

External auditors can work for many different organizations. Some work as independent consultants, with financing consulting firms, for government agencies or for a finance company. Opportunities are available in large cities like New York, Dallas and Los Angeles.

what you bring to the table

Working as an external auditor requires a professional to have accounting skills coupled with business acumen and a strongly objective mindset. You will face challenging situations and need the skills and experience to navigate them. Hiring companies are seeking candidates who possess the following skills and abilities:

• strong data analysis skills
• financial reporting
• extensive knowledge of external auditing practices
• up to date with finance industry rules and regulations
• strong knowledge of accounting standards
• experience working with accounting software
• excellent communication skills
• the ability to work with highly sensitive data and information
• strong attention to detail
• the ability to work under tight deadlines and in stressful situations
• highly organized
• good time management skills
• objective decision making

training and certifications

A bachelor’s degree in accounting is required to work as an auditor. However, obtaining a master’s degree makes you a more desirable candidate and opens the door to other career opportunities in the future. Having a CPA is increasingly becoming a requirement for hiring companies, therefore, certification is recommended. Additional and ongoing training and certification will increase your standing in the industry. 

where your career is headed

Auditor positions are generally a launching point for many finance and accounting professionals. With a number of years of experience, you can move into senior external or internal auditor roles. You can also move into other more senior roles in accounting, working as a financial analyst, financial controller, finance manager and many other related roles. 

If you work in finance and accounting and are interested in pursuing external auditor roles, Randstad USA can help you with your search. Contact us today to gain access to great opportunities in your area. 

If your organization is looking to hire an external auditor, we can help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your recruiting efforts.