What does the Financial Audit Division do?

Click on the following link for a Division Overview.

Does the Auditor General’s Office operate like a public accounting firm?

In many respects, the Auditor General’s Office operates like a public accounting firm.  However, our client is governmental entities and we work for the State of Arizona Legislature and report directly to them.  The Financial Audit Division conducts annual financial and compliance audits of all state agencies, counties, community college districts, and universities in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, Government Auditing Standards, and federal single audit requirements.  Additionally, the division provides client assistance to all governmental entities.

What can I expect during my first year?

During your first year with the Office, you will obtain a general understanding of the financial statement and federal compliance audit process.  You will be assigned to an audit team with various levels of experienced staff to help explain and teach you the audit process.  In addition, you will be assigned an auditor II or senior auditor to help mentor you throughout the year.  This individual will be available to assist you on the audit and answer your questions and concerns.

How is the division structured?

The Financial Audit Division has a staff comprising six audit teams that perform annual financial and compliance audits of state agencies, community college districts, universities, and counties throughout the State of Arizona.  Each audit team has a manager and approximately 10-12 employees that are responsible for completing the audits each year.  In addition, the division has a director, administrative manager, and technology information specialist.

What are the division’s basic qualifications?

Applicants interested in the financial audit division should have a Bachelor of Science in Accounting with 24 completed semester hours of accounting with a minimum of 3.0 GPA in accounting classes. Students within a year of graduation will also be considered.  In addition, you should be willing to travel approximately 20-30 percent of the time and have strong oral and written communication skills and strong interpersonal skills.  Further, you should have a working knowledge of Windows, word processing, spreadsheet, and database software.

How and when will I be evaluated?

You will be evaluated at the end of 4 months with the Office and receive an additional two evaluations during your first year.  Each subsequent year you will receive two evaluations from your immediate supervisor and an annual evaluation from your manager.  As part of your annual evaluation each year, you will outline your professional goals and overall audit experience.