Internal Auditor Officer

Job Description

The Internal Auditor Officer leads the university's internal audit function, providing oversight of operational, financial, and compliance audits across departments and programs. This role designs and executes a comprehensive audit plan aligned with institutional objectives, evaluates internal controls, and ensures compliance with laws, policies, and best practices. Acting as a key advisor to senior leadership and the Board of Trustees, the Internal Audit Manager delivers actionable insights to strengthen governance, mitigate risk, and enhance operational efficiency. Responsibilities include managing audit engagements, supervising internal and external audit resources, and fostering a culture of compliance and continuous improvement.

Essential Functions (Responsibilities)

• Designs and executes the annual internal audit plan based on risk assessment and institutional priorities.
• Leads and manages audit engagements-including planning, fieldwork, and reporting-in compliance with Global Internal Audit Standards.
• Provides quarterly audit reports and risk updates to senior leadership and the Board of Trustees.
• Evaluates internal controls, operational effectiveness, and compliance with laws, regulations, and university policies; recommends improvements.
• Supervises student employees and reviews their work; supports onboarding of new auditors.
• Advises management on risk mitigation strategies and monitors implementation of corrective actions.
• Communicates findings and recommendations clearly and persuasively to stakeholders at all levels.
• Stays current on emerging risks, regulatory changes, and audit best practices; contributes to strategic initiatives and special projects.
• Performs related responsibilities as required or assigned.

Special Job Dimensions

Requires strict confidentiality and independence in audit work. Occasional travel and extended hours may be needed during peak audit periods. Ongoing professional development is expected to maintain compliance with auditing standards.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certification such as CPA, CIA, or CISA.
• 7 - 10 years of experience in auditing or related fields.
• Experience supervising staff or student employees.
• Experience working in higher education.

Required Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, including root cause analysis, risk assessment, and fraud detection.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to clearly document work and present findings.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Proficiency in using auditing tools and department software; ability to learn new systems quickly.
• Demonstrated professionalism, initiative, objectivity, and sound judgment in all circumstances.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships and collaborate across departments.
• Leadership skills and ability to supervise student employees when required.

Equivalent Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, Risk Management, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
• Must have 5 - 7 years of professional experience in auditing, accounting, business operations, or a related role.
• Ability to perform duties outlined in the essential functions, including audit planning, risk assessment, and compliance evaluation.