Position Summary:
Under the direction of the Financial Administrator, the Audit and Compliance Specialist serves as a member of a team responsible for conducting comprehensive audits, analysis and reviews of PGCPS financial, operating and compliance activities. The incumbent of this position plays a role in assisting the Office of Integrity and Compliance (OIC) in conducting investigations into fraud, waste and abuse. This position requires a keen eye for detail, strong critical thinking skills and sound judgement to analyze complex financial and operational data accurately.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conducts pre-engagement planning to include independent research of topics/process areas, development of scope and objectives, entrance preparation and testing approach;
- Performs research and analysis of applicable laws and regulations, governance frameworks and business processes to determine compliance;
- Conducts in-depth analysis of financial data, including budgets, expenditures, revenue streams and financial statements to identify trends, anomalies, areas of concern and opportunities for improvement;
- Evaluates the design and operating effectiveness of internal controls, the impact of control gaps and regulatory compliance;
- Develops strategies to mitigate risks, strengthen internal controls and improve operational efficiencies, vetting recommendations with appropriate process owners;
- Prepares work papers and ensures documentation accurately supports the results of the analysis/testing performed, drawn conclusions, findings and recommendations;
- Formulates detailed reports that are factual and objective in presenting engagement results and associated recommendations to OIC leadership and appropriate stakeholders;
- Evaluates responses from PGCPS management and provides recommendations for appropriate action to determine compliance with recommendations;
- Collaborates with OIC staff to effectively facilitate assignments and contribute to the success of projects;
- Collaborates with other PGCPS offices to gather information and prepare/present compliance recommendations;
- Coordinates with other external oversight bodies, as needed, to provide assistance or complete projects; and
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex financial data accurately;
- Experience in internal/external auditing, financial analysis, and/or investigative work, preferably in a regulatory or compliance-focused environment;
- Strong understanding of financial/accounting principles, regulations, risk management, internal controls and professional auditing standards;
- Proficient in the use of Excel (Pivot Tables, V-lookup, etc.), PowerPoint and in creating presentations with graphs and diagrams;
- Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to present findings clearly and concisely;
- High level of integrity, professionalism and attention to detail; and
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities effectively.
Education and/or Experience Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in accounting, business administration/management or a related field required. A minimum of four (4) years of experience performing internal/external audits and/or other compliance work within the public or private sector.
Certification:
Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP), Certified Inspector General Auditor (CIGA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or related professional certification preferred.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
May oversee and provide guidance to assigned personnel.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, talk, hear, walk, sit, and use fingers, tools or controls. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision such as to read handwritten or typed material, the ability to adjust focus, and depth perception. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may occasionally push or lift up to 25 lbs.
Working Environment:
The work environment characteristics are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job.
Additional Information:
Can be demanding due to pace and volume of work and managing change; periodically required to work long hours.
This is a confidential position; not a member of a bargaining unit.
