Auditor of State | Employment Opportunities

The Financial Audit Division is responsible for performance of annual audits of Iowa’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and Single Audit Report, all state departments and agencies, as well as audits of counties, cities, school districts, and other governmental subdivisions as requested.

The Performance Investigation Division is responsible for conducting comprehensive performance audits of state agencies and the programs they administer. The division also investigates suspected embezzlements and conducts special studies assigned by the Auditor of State or requested by the Legislature.

An auditor's work will vary depending on the audit engagement. It can range from the simple audit of cash receipts and disbursements of a county recorder to a complex audit of the financial statements of a state university.

All work is performed in accordance with generally accepted government auditing standards, established by the U.S. General Accounting Office, which includes generally accepted auditing standards established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. The duties of an entry-level auditor are performed under the direction of an experienced, in-charge auditor and will be under the general supervision of a Manager.

The educational requirement is simple and straightforward: a degree that qualifies you to sit for the CPA examination with 24 hours of qualified accounting courses. Candidates should also have 150 total semester hours upon graduation.

Performance Auditor

The educational requirement is a bachelor’s degree in a field emphasizing analytical skills, research and organization of data in written form. Other desirable qualifications include CPA, CIA, MBA, MPA, or related professional accomplishment.

Beyond the basic educational requirement, all auditors are expected to exhibit a positive, professional demeanor, demonstrate good communication skills and possess the ability to work well with people.

The Auditor’s Office is exempt from the merit system of the Iowa Department of Personnel. Therefore, it is not necessary for candidates to complete the certification process that is required for state offices under the merit system.

The Auditor’s Office believes in filling available positions by promoting qualified professionals from within the office. Advancement is based upon performance, which is monitored under an evaluation process which encourages active, two-way communication. Staff positions, in order of increasing responsibilities, are: Assistant Auditor, Staff Auditor, Senior Auditor, and Senior Auditor II. Opportunities are also available for managerial positions.

Continuing professional development is required and is achieved through on-the-job training, in-house training programs and outside training courses and seminars. For those wishing to continue their formal education, a tuition reimbursement program is available for areas of study related to governmental auditing.

The Auditor’s Office supports staff members in their required efforts to obtain the professional certification of Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). We also encourage staff members to be active participants of the accounting profession, and promote membership and participation in professional organizations.

Time spent traveling and away from home varies according to each individual audit assignment. We make every effort to accommodate the personal needs and wishes of each employee. However, at least limited overnight travel should be expected. While traveling, auditors are generally able to work a 4-day week (10 hour days). Reimbursement for transportation, meal and lodging expenses will be provided according to state guidelines.

The Auditor’s Office offers a competitive starting salary for Assistant Auditors, depending upon qualifications and experience. Salaries are subject to periodic adjustments based upon performance and funding availability. In addition, all auditors receive the following employee benefits:

	Vacation - minimum of two weeks per year.
	Holidays - eleven paid state holidays.
	Sick Leave.
	Group Health, Dental and Life Insurance.
	Iowa Public Employees Retirement System.
	Deferred Compensation Programs.