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What does a Compliance Auditor do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A compliance auditor is responsible for ensuring that an organization is following all applicable laws and regulations. They may review financial records, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance. Compliance auditors may also provide recommendations on how to improve compliance within an organization.

Compliance Auditor job duties include:

  • Research and analyze laws, regulations, and other sources of information relevant to the audit.
  • Develop and document audit plans that identify the compliance risks to be addressed.
  • Conduct interviews with employees and management to gather information about compliance policies and procedures.
  • Review documents and records to assess compliance with laws and regulations.
  • Observe employees and management in their work environment to identify potential compliance risks.
  • Test compliance controls to ensure they are effective in mitigating risks.
  • Prepare audit reports that document findings and recommendations for improvement.
  • Present findings to management and discuss recommendations for corrective action.
  • Follow up with management after the audit to ensure corrective actions have been taken.

Compliance Auditor Job Requirements

To become a compliance auditor, one must have at least a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Many employers also require certification, such as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). Experience in auditing, accounting, and financial analysis is also helpful. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, as is the ability to communicate complex information clearly.

Compliance Auditor Skills

  • Analytical skills
  • Communication skills
  • Organizational skills
  • Planning and coordination skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Research skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Critical thinking
  • Flexibility/adaptability
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Leadership/management skills
  • Self-motivation

Related: Top Compliance Auditor Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Compliance Auditor

A compliance auditor is a professional who audits businesses to ensure they are following the rules and regulations set forth by various governing bodies. There are many different types of compliance auditors, but all share the common goal of helping businesses stay compliant with the law. To become a compliance auditor, one must first earn a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Many compliance auditors also have a master’s degree in business administration or a law degree.

After completing the necessary education, the next step is to gain experience in auditing. Many compliance auditors start their careers as staff accountants or internal auditors at accounting firms. This experience is essential in order to understand the complexities of auditing and the various rules and regulations that businesses must follow.

Once you have the necessary education and experience, you can then begin working as a compliance auditor. Many compliance auditors work for consulting firms that specialize in providing compliance services to businesses. Others may work for government agencies or large corporations. No matter where you work, your job will be to help businesses ensure they are complying with all relevant laws and regulations.

If you are interested in becoming a compliance auditor, it is important to first earn the necessary education and experience. Once you have these things, you can begin working in this rewarding and challenging field.

Related: Compliance Auditor Resume Example

Related: Compliance Auditor Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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