Internal Audit Associate

Internal Audit Associate

Posting Title: Internal Audit Associate Location: Chicago, IL (Mostly Off-Site) Employment Type: Full-time Hourly Range: $36.30-$49.91

Description

EquiTrust Life Insurance Company is a national carrier of competitive, client-friendly annuity products sold through a variety of distribution channels, including more than 20,000 independent agents and independent marketing organizations (IMOs). Since 2003, we have provided exceptional customer service to our clients by operating with integrity and passion. Our efforts are supported by a dedicated workforce who execute their responsibilities through teamwork and an entrepreneurial spirit. EquiTrust sells products nationwide and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with operations in West Des Moines, Iowa.

As an Internal Audit Associate, you will support the Internal Audit team in evaluating and improving the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management processes, and operational practices across the organization. Working closely with audit team members and business partners, you will assist with audit testing, documentation, and process reviews that help mitigate financial, operational, compliance, and fraud-related risks.

This role is ideal for someone who is curious, detail-oriented, eager to learn, and interested in developing a career in internal audit, risk management, or financial services.

What You'll Do:

• Assist with audit walkthroughs, control testing, and substantive testing to evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls.
• Document audit procedures, findings, and supporting evidence through workpapers, flowcharts, and related audit documentation.
• Develop an understanding of business processes, risks, and controls while learning internal audit methodologies and best practices.
• Support audit requests related to regulatory examinations and external audits.
• Communicate project status and audit-related updates to audit team members and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with colleagues across departments to gather information and support audit activities.
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and team-oriented work environment.
• Participate in continuous learning opportunities to enhance audit, risk, and business knowledge.
• Support additional projects and departmental initiatives as needed

What You'll Bring:

Education:

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business, or a related field preferred

Experience:

• Prior internship or relevant experience in auditing, accounting, finance, risk management, or a related area is preferred.
• Recent graduates with relevant coursework, internships, or demonstrated interest in internal audit are encouraged to apply

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Analytical mindset with problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
• Strong attention to detail and process orientation.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel; familiarity with Visio is a plus.
• Basic understanding of internal audit principles, accounting concepts, or risk management practices.
• Ability to build positive working relationships and collaborate across teams.
• Growth mindset with a willingness to learn, seek feedback, and continuously develop professionally.
• Professional certifications such as CPA or CIA, or progress toward obtaining them, are a plus but not required

Physical Requirements:

• Primarily sedentary office work requiring extended periods of sitting and computer use.
• Frequent use of hands for keyboarding and other computer-related tasks.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person and virtually.
• Occasionally move and/or lift items up to 20 pounds.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role

Where You'll Work:

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Work Arrangements: Mostly Off-Site
• Travel Requirements: Less than 5%

Compensation and Pay Philosophy: The hourly range for this role is $36.30-$49.91. This reflects the expected compensation for the position at the time of posting. The final offer will be based on factors such as the candidate's experience, qualifications, geographic location, and internal equity, and may be higher or lower than the posted range. The pay range is subject to change in the future in accordance with applicable laws. EquiTrust is committed to fair and competitive compensation that considers individual and organizational needs.

Total Rewards: In addition to base pay, EquiTrust may, within its sole discretion and depending on the relevant circumstances, criteria, and considerations at the time, grant eligible employees annual discretionary incentive bonuses. Eligible employees also have access to a competitive benefits package including:

• Medical, Dental & Vision coverage
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Paid time off: Vacation, Sick, Holiday, and more
• Paid Parental Leave for both Mothers and Fathers
• Hybrid/Remote Work Options
• Early Friday Closure

EquiTrust is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the U.S. Federal E-Verify program. Applicants have rights under federal and state employment laws. To learn more, visit EquiTrust Careers.