Chief of Internal Audit

Location : Headquarters: 2800 U.S. Hwy 281 N., San Antonio, TX
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number:
Department: PRESIDENT/CEO
Opening Date: 09/15/2026

This position is open until filled, but resume review will begin as soon as possible with scheduled interviews to follow.

The San Antonio Water System (SAWS) is seeking to fill the Chief of Internal Audit position. Competitive salary depends on qualifications, from $220,000 to $250,000 with generous benefits package including pension, paid leave, and health benefits.

Interested applicants should send a cover letter and resume by email only to , attention Holly Esquivel CPC, Sr. Director at Deacon Recruiting.

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY
The Chief of Internal Audit is responsible for leading, developing and implementing a comprehensive internal audit program to support the accomplishment of organizational strategic objectives and evaluate the effectiveness of established financial, operational, and compliance practices, and the related controls. Provides independent, risk-based, and objective assurance, advice, insight and foresight designed to add value and improve SAWS operations. Reports functionally to the Board of Trustees through the Audit Committee in the performance of essential functions, and reports administratively to the President/CEO.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The Functional Reporting duties are listed below:
Develop Internal Audit Plan

• Develops and executes a flexible annual internal audit plan using appropriate risk-based methodology, including any risks or control concerns identified by SAWS Trustees, SAWS Management or external auditors.

Conduct Internal Audits, Consulting and Advisory Services

• Implements the approved annual internal audit plan, including, as appropriate, any special projects requested by the Audit Committee and Management.
• Oversees the execution of internal financial, operational and information system audits in accordance with the requirements of the SAWS Internal Audit Charter and existing internal audit professional standards.
• Continuously improves the quality of internal audit to ensure internal audit efforts add value to the organization and that the maturity of the internal audit function is at an advanced stage/level.
• Ensures the internal audit function remains free from all conditions that threaten the independence of the function and the ability of internal auditors to carry out their responsibilities in an unbiased objective manner.

Report Results to the Board of Trustees through the Audit Committee

• Reports the results of internal audits and/or projects promptly to the appropriate individuals in management and the Audit Committee summarizing the results of audit activity.
• Reports on SAWS network of control mechanisms and whether they are adequate, effective, functioning and/or coordinated.
• Reports periodically on the status and results of the annual audit plan.
• Reports the results of an internal audit quality assurance and improvement program that includes both internal and external assessments.
• Reports on significant new or changing services, processes, operations, and control processes coincident with their development, implementation, and /or expansion.
• Reports on emerging trends and successful practices in internal auditing.
• Reports on regulatory pronouncements and issues affecting internal audit.

Budgeting Process

• Forecasts, allocates and monitors the human, physical and financial resources for internal audit.
• Reviews the annual budget with the Audit Committee and communicates the impact of insufficient resources, if any.

Administrative Reporting

• Administrative reporting is all reporting other than the Functional Reporting described above, including, but not limited to, budget management, procurement coordination, organizational policy development, and staffing and personnel administration.

DECISION MAKING

• The Chief of Internal Audit reports functionally to the Board of Trustees through the Audit Committee and administratively to the President/Chief Executive Officer.
• This position directly and fully supervises up to 6 employees.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Economics or related field from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.
• Ten (10) years' increasingly responsible professional experience developing, controlling and administering financial and operational audits including five (5) years' experience supervising personnel.
• Able to obtain the appropriate continuing professional development necessary to maintain and enhance auditing knowledge, skills and other competencies and to stay abreast of professional standards.
• Licensed as a Certified Public Accountant or certified as a Certified Internal Auditor.
• Valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Economics or related field from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.

JOB DIMENSIONS

• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Auditing Standards.
• Knowledge of the mandatory elements of The Institute of Internal Auditors' International Professional Practices Framework.
• Knowledge of Federal, State and local laws, statutes and regulations as they pertain to internal audit.
• Knowledge of principles of supervision, training and performance evaluation.
• Skill in analyzing and evaluating risks and internal controls.
• Skill in analytical and critical thinking.
• Skill in utilizing a personal computer and associated software programs.
• Skill in developing clear and concise reports and effectively presenting audit results to the Audit Committee.
• Ability to meet aggressive deadlines and manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to plan, develop and implement strategic business plans.
• Ability to exhibit high standards of business and personal ethical conduct, leadership, teamwork, positive attitude, initiative and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to analyze complex problems, identify root causes, and provide recommendations.
• Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers, including Board of Trustees, Executive Management Team, elected officials, policy makers, community leaders, contractors, consultants, and industry leaders.
• The Audit Committee shall review and approve the appointment, replacement, reassignment, evaluation or dismissal of the Chief of Internal Audit and forward recommendations to the Board for approval.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONSWorking conditions are primarily in an office environment with occasional field visits. Physical requirements include visual acuity, speech and hearing; hand and eye coordination and manual dexterity necessary to operate basic office equipment. May drive a company and/or personal vehicle when performing duties at field locations. Subject to sitting, walking or standing to perform the essential functions.
May be required to work hours other than regular schedule such as nights and weekends.