Audit & Assurance Senior AssociateA Regional Public Accounting Firm Locations: Troy, Bingham Farms, and Ann Arbor, Michigan
Salary: $80,000 - $110,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications.
Position SummaryOur Firm is looking for a driven and technically proficient
Audit & Assurance Senior Associate to join our growing practice in the greater Detroit Metro area. This crucial role acts as the in-charge professional on complex audit, review, and compilation engagements across diverse industries. The Senior Associate is responsible for leading the day-to-day execution of fieldwork, applying technical standards, and serving as the primary supervisor and mentor for junior staff members.
Key ResponsibilitiesEngagement Execution & Management- Lead audit fieldwork for specific areas of financial statements, ensuring engagements are planned and performed efficiently, within budget, and according to established timelines.
- Proactively identify, research, and resolve complex technical accounting and auditing matters (including those related to US GAAP and GAAS) encountered during the engagement, escalating issues to the Manager or Partner as necessary.
- Coordinate directly with client accounting personnel to gather necessary documentation, manage information flow, and facilitate a smooth, timely audit process.
Quality Assurance & Compliance- Perform and document thorough risk assessments for client operations and financial reporting areas to inform the overall audit strategy.
- Ensure rigorous compliance with all professional standards, regulatory requirements, and internal firm quality control protocols throughout the engagement lifecycle.
- Draft significant findings and recommendations for management letters, providing value-added insights to improve client internal controls and operations.
Team Supervision & Development- Serve as the primary mentor and coach to Audit Associates and Interns, providing direct, constructive feedback on workpapers, technical application, and professional conduct.
- Review all staff-prepared workpapers for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to the audit program, ensuring audit evidence is sufficient and appropriate.
- Contribute to the performance evaluation process for junior team members, supporting their professional growth and development within the firm.
Required Qualifications & ExperienceEducation & Professional Credentials- Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field; a Master's degree is preferred.
- Active CPA license or significant, demonstrated progress toward obtaining CPA certification is required.
- Minimum of 3 to 5 years of progressive external audit experience in a public accounting firm.
Skills & Technical Acumen- Expert knowledge of US Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (US GAAP) and Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS).
- Proficiency in audit documentation software (e.g., CCH ProSystem fx Engagement, CaseWare) and advanced competency in Microsoft Excel.
- Superior analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities necessary to manage multiple engagements and strict deadlines.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the proven ability to articulate complex financial issues to both technical and non-technical client personnel.
- Prior experience supervising or leading a team in an audit environment is highly preferred.
Work Environment- This is primarily an office-based role requiring the use of a computer for data analysis and documentation.
- The position requires a commitment to working overtime during peak seasons to meet client deadlines.
- Occasional local travel (less than 10%) to client locations is required.