Senior Internal Auditor III

City
Irvine State
California Job Location
Irvine Regional Office (Derian) Position Type
Regular

The Senior Internal Auditor III plays a key role in strengthening the organization's control environment and supporting business excellence across corporate and property operations. This role leads and executes risk-based internal audits, including Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) 404 testing, supports external audit activities, and contributes to a variety of corporate audit initiatives. In addition, this position serves as a trusted advisor to management by providing insight, guidance, and practical recommendations that enhance processes, mitigate risk, and drive operational efficiency.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

• Plan, schedule, and independently execute audits across property, corporate, and operational functions using a risk-based approach.
• Lead Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) planning, walkthroughs, control testing, and documentation in support of compliance requirements.
• Develop, assess, and update risk-based audit plans aligned with business objectives and emerging risks.
• Prepare clear, concise internal audit reports that articulate findings, risks, and actionable recommendations for internal control and process improvements.
• Partner with corporate and operational stakeholders to identify practical solutions and drive meaningful process enhancements.
• Partner in the evaluation, implementation, and ongoing use of new and existing audit technologies to drive efficiencies, enhance audit coverage, and improve insight across internal audit activities.
• Serve as a key liaison for external auditors by providing audit support, documentation, and coordination as needed.
• Assist with special projects, investigations, and Audit Committee or senior management requests.
• Stay current on industry trends, regulatory changes, and leading audit practices while maintaining all required professional certifications.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
• 4+ years of progressive internal or public audit experience , including demonstrated ownership of audit engagements from planning through reporting.
• 3+ years of hands-on Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) experience , including control design assessment, walkthroughs, testing, issue evaluation, and remediation support.
• CPA and/or CIA strongly preferred, reflecting advanced technical proficiency and commitment to the internal audit profession.
• Industry experience within real estate, property management, or a similarly regulated environment is a plus.
• Demonstrated experience or interest in leveraging data analytics, audit automation, and emerging audit technologies to drive efficiency.

WHAT THE JOB REQUIRES:

• Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities, adapting quickly to change, and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated comfort operating in a collaborative, cross-functional setting that requires frequent interaction with diverse stakeholders.
• Proactive, solution-oriented mindset with the ability to identify issues, exercise sound judgment, and continuously improve processes.
• Hybrid work arrangement with in-person office requirements a minimum of four days per week (Monday through Thursday) at Essex's corporate offices in Woodland Hills or Irvine. Hybrid policy subject to change at Essex's sole discretion.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE TABLE:

• Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills with the ability to synthesize complex information and translate it into clear, actionable insights.
• Polished written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present audit findings and recommendations confidently to varied audiences.
• High level of organization, attention to detail, and problem-solving capability, with a consistent focus on quality and accuracy.
• Commitment to delivering timely, professional, and value-added service while building trusted relationships across the organization.
• Ability to read, interpret, and analyze financial, operational, and policy-related documentation with confidence and sound judgment.

#LI-Hybrid
#LI-AA1

All full-time regular associates are offered competitive salaries, experience career growth, and are eligible for benefit packages that include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, 401k employer match, excellence rewards, wellness programs, and much more. With our 12 paid holidays and 15 PTO days, work/life balance is a priority! Additionally, most positions are eligible for a housing discount of 20%.

Essex provides great communities in which to live, work and invest. We are a purpose-driven company, and we pride ourselves on promoting an internal culture of growth and opportunity by engaging, enabling, and empowering our teams. Working at Essex is not a destination. It is a journey where you can confidently build your career.

New hires generally start between $107,000.00 - $135,000.00 per year. The final salary offer will be determined after reviewing relevant factors, including but not limited to skill sets; relevant experience; internal equity; and other business and organizational needs.

This role is also eligible to participate in Essex's discretionary Annual Bonus program that is commensurate with the level of the position.