Are you someone who likes to ensure things are done correctly? Do you enjoy gathering and analyzing information while paying close attention to details? Do you value ethical standards? If so, a career as an internal auditor might be a good fit for you. Internal auditors are responsible for conducting financial, systems, and operational audits within their organizations. They ensure that the organization is operating effectively in order to meet its goals and objectives.

Duties of an Internal Auditor

  • Identifying risk areas and managing or reducing risk exposure
  • Using existing structures to ensure the organization meets established standards
  • Identifying, reporting, monitoring, and following internal policies and procedures
  • Ensuring compliance with legislation and regulations
  • Protecting the organization's assets
  • Identifying and mitigating fraud risks

Internal auditors also provide recommendations to improve operational effectiveness and enhance control design. They make sure that the appropriate controls are in place to manage identified risks. Findings and action plans are reported to management, and they may also provide fraud awareness training.

In addition to these responsibilities, internal auditors conduct audits before implementing new systems to ensure they function as intended. They may also advise systems project teams on potential risks and control-related issues. Some internal auditors even conduct coaching sessions with staff to improve operational efficiency and reduce risk.

While many organizations have internal auditors on staff, some may outsource or enter into co-sourcing agreements with external auditors who specialize in internal auditing.

Skills and Traits of Internal Auditors

Internal auditors typically work standard office hours, but may occasionally work overtime to meet project deadlines. Some key traits and skills for this profession include high ethical standards, sound judgment, initiative, persistence, creative thinking, attention to detail, independence, communication and organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

If you're considering a career as an internal auditor, it's important to note that the average salary for this position is around $41.04 per hour. While certification is not regulated, it can be beneficial for career advancement. The demand for internal auditors is approximately 31,700 per province each year.

Job Classification of Internal Auditors

  • 2006 NOC: Financial Auditors (1111.1)
  • 2006 NOC-S: Financial Auditors and Accountants (B011)
  • 2011 NOC: Financial auditors and accountants (1111)
  • 2016 NOC: Financial auditors and accountants (1111)

By considering all of these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether a career as an internal auditor is right for you.

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