If you are looking for an opportunity where you can use your knowledge of information technology, accounting, and analytical skills, an IT auditor is a great career choice for you.
Information technology (IT) auditors help organizations protect their data and internal controls by identifying weaknesses in systems and networks. They coordinate and conduct audits of networks, applications, operations and systems, and report security risks and weaknesses. They analyze results and research, plan, and implement solutions. IT auditors work in a variety of industries, including health care, construction, finance, and technology.
IT auditors must have good troubleshooting skills, advanced knowledge of IT systems and networks, and must exercise discretion when working with confidential and sensitive information. Excellent problem-solving skills and exceptional computer skills are necessary. IT auditors should be up-to-date on the latest cybersecurity trends and hacking techniques.
Sample job description
[Your Company Name] is looking to hire a new IT auditor to join our company. As an IT auditor, you will be in charge of ensuring the protection of system information and controls and ensuring that data and systems are not subject to breaches of security faults. The ideal candidate for this position will have previous experience in the field and be a certified information systems auditor. Your daily tasks will include evaluating systems, resolving any breaches that take place, fixing any potential issues with the security system to prevent breaches, and auditing any network problems which may arise. You will also be in charge of managing and updating firewall software and making sure that financial software is not breached. To do this, you must manually inspect the required aspects of the system, as well as keep an eye on the latest technological developments to ensure that no security faults have been discovered. If this position is of interest to you, please apply to join our team.
Typical duties and responsibilities
- Conduct audits and assesses appropriate solutions to complex problems
- Identify risks and controls of the IT department
- Identify areas of improvement
- Perform and document audit findings
- Provide recommendations from assessments
- Audit computer systems to minimize risks
- Participate in technology audits and technology project reviews
- Maintain and revise existing compliance programs
Education and experience
This position requires a bachelor’s degree in business administration, information technology, finance, information systems management, or another relevant field. CISA or CISSP certification is a plus.
Required skills and qualifications
- Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills
- Proficient in finding creative solutions to complex problems
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Detail-oriented and analytical thinker
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other applications
- Ability to identify, assess and advise on risks for technology projects
Preferred qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Accounting or Finance
- 1+ years of system auditing and programming analysis experience
- Knowledge of basic audit standards and processes, systems design, system operations, end user computing technologies, and audit software
Typical work environment
An IT auditor is in charge of protecting system information and ensuring that internal controls and data are not subject to breaches. The responsibilities of an IT auditor can include examining internal IT controls and determining risks, troubleshooting security and network problems, rectifying any breaches which may occur, and other daily tasks. As an IT auditor, it will be your task to provide regular audits and examinations of IT systems in order to ensure the proper working order and that these systems are up to date with the latest security measures. Oftentimes, this position will be full-time with the potential to be on call depending on the importance of the IT system. You will be required to be an expert in firewalls, security software and systems, and financial systems. Having the relevant degrees and certifications is a must for this position.
Typical hours
Typical hours for this position are from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, in an office setting.
Available certifications
An IT auditor will benefit from having relevant certifications in the information technologies field, network security, software systems, and firewall field. Because of this, there is a very broad range of certifications that could be used for an IT auditor. Some of the most widely recognized include:
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA). As a certified information systems auditor, you will be required to be at the forefront of IT auditing and information systems auditing. Because of this, this certification is one of the chief and most essential certifications for the position of IT auditor. This certification covers the latest IT auditing practices, methods, and techniques in the exam provided. Being certified as an information systems auditor can be immensely beneficial for any IT auditor looking to further their career.
- GIAC Systems and Network Auditor (GSNA). The GIAC Systems and Network Auditor or GSNA is offered by GIAC and is a forefront certification for any IT auditors working in the field. Because of this, it is widely recognized and may be useful to any IT auditor looking to expand and certify their expertise.
Career path
This position requires a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field. Employers may prefer candidates who have CISA or CISSP certifications, as well as those with on-the-job experience. IT auditors have the opportunity to advance to positions such as senior IT auditor and IT audit manager.
US, Bureau of Labor Statistics’ job outlook
SOC Code: 15-1212
| 2020 Employment | 141,200 |
| Projected Employment in 2030 | 188,300 |
| Projected 2020-2030 Percentage Shift | 33% increase |
| Projected 2020-2030 Numeric Shift | 47,100 increase |
Position trends
The field of information technology is continually growing as businesses become more innovative. Organizations across all sectors are becoming more reliant on information technology, which means IT auditors will continue to be essential employees.
According to the industry website Computer Science Online, mobile technology, data security, and big data will be the core components of most organizations’ infrastructure, products, and services. IT auditors will be integral in assessing these ever-changing components to ascertain an organization’s existing risks and controls.