What does the Performance Audit Division do?

Click on the following link for a Division Overview.

What can I expect during my first year?

You will be assigned to an audit team that may work at an audit site or at the Auditor General's offices, depending upon the audit's stage. Most state agencies are located in the Phoenix metropolitan area. You will generally work on only one audit at a time. Depending on the size of the agency being audited or the complexity of the issues involved, a complete audit may take from 6 to 10 months from start to finish. During the audit, you may interview agency staff regarding their operations, call similar agencies in other states to identify best practices, review and analyze agency data or create a database based on a review of agency records, or summarize reports and journals pertinent to the department or agency that your team is evaluating. You will use a variety of research and analysis techniques, and you will be trained in the Office's report-writing style. You will also attend a variety of classes throughout the year, which may include new staff training, audit process training, and computer training. Government Auditing Standards require that you obtain 40 hours of Continuing Professional Education per year, and the office training is designed to achieve this requirement. To help you adjust to your new office and responsibilities, you will be paired with a member of your extended team who will answer questions and offer guidance on office procedures.

How is the division structured?

Each staff member is assigned to an extended team that is overseen by a manager. The extended team includes between seven and nine members. From the extended team, smaller teams are formed to conduct audits. Audit teams typically include three staff – a team leader and two staff auditors. However, depending on the size of the agency being audited, smaller or larger teams may be created. Since audit teams typically change with each new audit, you will have the opportunity to work with different members of your extended team. You may also be asked to temporarily work on another manager's team in order to help the division complete its audits.

What are the division’s basic qualifications?

The Office of the Auditor General hires from a variety of diverse backgrounds, including business, journalism, library science, law, public administration, political science, and economics.  We hire both new graduates and individuals with many years of experience.

Applicants must have a bachelor's degree with at least one year of experience in performance auditing, program evaluation, financial auditing, management or policy analysis, or related experience; or a master's degree or higher in a field emphasizing analytical skills, research, and organization of data. Students within a year of completing their master's degree will also be considered.

In addition, applicants should 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 formally evaluated twice within your first year with the Office in order to provide you with an understanding of what is expected of you and to give you feedback on your performance.  After your first year, evaluations are conducted annually.  In addition, you will have the opportunity to develop a professional development plan each year and your manager and team leader will work with you to help you achieve your professional goals.