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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Full‑time regular associates are offered competitive salaries ranging from $107,000 to $135,000 per year, benefits including medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, 401(k) employer match, wellness programs, and a 20% housing discount. 12 paid holidays, 15 PTO days, and an optional annual bonus program are also provided. #J-18808-Ljbffr