Accounting & Audit

Auditor

SOC 13-2011.00 · ESCO 2411 · OSCA 221231

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Role snapshot

Overview

Examines financial statements and internal controls, gathering evidence and testing transactions to verify that an organisation's accounts are accurate and compliant with regulations. Auditors assess financial risks, identify discrepancies, and ensure adherence to established accounting standards and legal requirements.

Ensures the accuracy and reliability of financial reporting, protects stakeholders from fraud and misrepresentation, and helps organisations maintain financial integrity and compliance with laws and regulations.

On the job

  • Plan and execute audit engagements, defining scope and objectives.
  • Examine financial records, statements, and management reports to ensure accuracy and compliance.
  • Evaluate internal control systems to identify weaknesses and recommend improvements.
  • Gather and analyze evidence, interview personnel, and perform analytical procedures.
  • Prepare audit reports detailing findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
Auditor at work

Tools & technology

Microsoft ExcelAudit software (e.g., AuditBoard, TeamMate)Data analytics tools (e.g., ACL, IDEA)Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systemsMicrosoft Office Suite

Average salary

$85K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$65K Bottom 10%
$120K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is typically required. Many auditors pursue professional certifications like CPA for career advancement.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Auditor
Audit Manager

CURRENT ROLE

Auditor

Accounting & Audit

ADJACENT MOVES

Financial Analyst
Compliance Officer
Junior Auditor
Staff Accountant
Accounting Assistant

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

C

conventional · CEI

Individuals who enjoy working with data, ensuring accuracy, and adhering to regulations, while also engaging with people and investigating complex issues, tend to find satisfaction in auditing.

Personality characteristics

Detail-oriented

Possesses a meticulous approach to examining financial records and identifying anomalies.

Systematic

Prefers structured processes and logical methods for problem-solving and analysis.

Inquisitive

Driven to investigate discrepancies, understand root causes, and uncover hidden information.

Objective

Maintains impartiality and provides unbiased assessments of financial data and controls.

Resilient

Manages pressure during busy periods and handles scrutiny from clients or regulators effectively.

Communicative

Clearly explains complex financial findings and recommendations to diverse stakeholders.

Best for

  • Individuals who thrive on precision, data accuracy, and ensuring compliance.
  • Professionals who enjoy problem-solving and uncovering financial discrepancies.
  • Those who value contributing to financial integrity and corporate governance.

Watch out for

  • Can experience high-pressure periods during audit season, requiring long hours and tight deadlines.
  • Requires a high degree of objectivity and the ability to deliver potentially critical findings.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Auditor — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Team daily standup
Client site visit - data gathering & interviews
Document review & testing of transactions
Tue
Internal controls walkthrough and assessment
Audit findings discussion with senior auditor
Prepare audit workpapers and documentation
Wed
Analytical procedures and variance analysis
Client follow-up call
Research accounting standards and regulations
Thu
Draft sections of audit report
Meeting with audit manager for progress review
Respond to client queries and requests
Fri
Team training or professional development
Review outstanding items and plan next week
Admin/Email catchup
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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