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Audit Associate Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Audit Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

Description The Audit Manager leads the delivery of high-quality audit and assurance services for clients, providing independent and objective assessments of financial statements, internal controls ...

Audit Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

The Audit Manager leads the delivery of high-quality audit and assurance services for clients, providing independent and objective assessments of financial statements, internal controls, and related ...

Audit Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

This role ensures audits are executed with integrity, technical excellence, and efficiency while enhancing the reliability of financial information for stakeholders. Reports To Shareholder Key ...

Audit Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Most Audit Manager opportunities revolve around managing engagements, reviewing workpapers, and getting through busy season. This one gives you a much bigger seat at the table. A growing public ...

Audit Manager

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$101K - $132K/yr

Audit / Assurance Managers are responsible for managing client relationships while auditing their financial records for compliance to generally accepted accounting rules and standards. This includes:

New

Audit Supervisor

Madison, WI · On-site

$85 - $115/hr

Supervise associates, encourage collaboration, and monitor teams as they execute audits, reviews, and compilations * Continue to enhancetechnical skills and in-depth knowledge of client ...

New

Audit Manager - Sun Prairie

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$101K - $132K/yr

Audit / Assurance Managers are responsible for managing client relationships while auditing their financial records for compliance to generally accepted accounting rules and standards. This includes:

New

Audit Internship Spring 2028

Madison, WI · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

At Wipfli, in-person work is defined as associates regularly working 5 days a week, for full-time ... Perform audit, review, and compliance testing procedures in accordance with firm and professional ...

New

Audit Internship - Spring 2028

Madison, WI · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

At Wipfli, in-person work is defined as associates regularly working 5 days a week, for full-time ... Perform audit, review, and compliance testing procedures in accordance with firm and professional ...

New

Audit Internship - Spring 2028

Madison, WI · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

At Wipfli, in-person work is defined as associates regularly working 5 days a week, for full-time ... Perform audit, review, and compliance testing procedures in accordance with firm and professional ...

New

Intern Audit Winter 2028

Madison, WI · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

... audit or tax, or even whether public accounting is right for you ... You will work on client engagements like those assigned to our entry-level associates, gaining ...

Intern Audit Summer 2028

Madison, WI · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

... audit or tax, or even whether public accounting is right for you ... You will work on client engagements like those assigned to our entry-level associates, gaining ...

Intern Audit Summer 2028

Madison, WI

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

... audit or tax, or even whether public accounting is right for you ... You will work on client engagements like those assigned to our entry-level associates, gaining ...

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Showing results 1-20

Audit Associate information

See Madison, WI salary details

$25.2K

$72.3K

$108.8K

How much do audit associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for audit associate in Madison, WI is $72,334.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,900.00 and $82,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an audit associate?

An audit associate provides technical and clerical support for a lead auditor to help examine and verify an organization’s processes or financial information. Under the supervision of an audit department, your duties as an associate auditor include planning and carrying out aspects of an internal audit aimed at improving the efficiency or financial health of a company. In addition to providing accounting assistance, you may conduct interviews with employees and create reports of findings for the auditing department. Qualifications for a career as an audit associate include a bachelor’s degree in accounting, statistics, or a related field, as well as relevant job experience. Audit associates also need excellent attention to detail, strong written and verbal communication skills, and advanced math ability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an audit associate?

To thrive as an Audit Associate, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, analytical skills, and a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Familiarity with audit software (such as CaseWare or IDEA), Microsoft Excel, and sometimes a CPA track or certification is highly valued. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help Audit Associates excel in client interactions and team environments. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring accurate financial assessments and maintaining the integrity of audit processes.

What are some common challenges audit associates face during busy season, and how can they effectively manage their workload?

Audit Associates often experience heavier workloads and tight deadlines during busy season, which can be both challenging and rewarding. Managing multiple client engagements, adapting to changing priorities, and handling large volumes of data are typical hurdles. Effective time management, clear communication with team members, and leveraging audit software for efficiency are key strategies to stay organized. Seeking guidance from senior associates and maintaining a collaborative mindset can also help in successfully navigating peak periods.

What is the difference between Audit Associate vs Staff Auditor?

AspectAudit AssociateStaff Auditor
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in accounting or related field; CPA preferredBachelor's degree in accounting or related field; CPA often preferred
Work EnvironmentPublic accounting firms, corporate finance teamsPublic accounting firms, internal audit departments
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in accounting firms and corporationsCommon in accounting firms and internal audit roles
Comparison Search IntentUnderstanding entry-level audit rolesClarifying audit job responsibilities and career path

Both Audit Associate and Staff Auditor roles typically require similar educational backgrounds and certifications. They often work in similar environments within accounting firms or corporate finance departments. The main difference lies in job titles used by employers, with 'Staff Auditor' sometimes indicating a slightly more experienced position. Both roles serve as entry points into the auditing profession, focusing on financial review, compliance, and internal controls.

Do you need a CPA to be an audit associate?

A CPA license is not always required to become an audit associate, but many employers prefer or require it for advancement and to perform certain audit tasks. Entry-level audit roles often accept candidates with a bachelor's degree in accounting or related fields, and pursuing a CPA can enhance career prospects and credibility in the field.

How much money does an audit associate make?

An audit associate's average salary typically ranges from $55,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and firm size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with certifications like CPA can earn higher salaries, especially in larger firms or metropolitan areas.

Is an audit associate a stressful job?

An audit associate role can be stressful during peak periods such as busy season, when deadlines and workload increase. The job requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and often involves long hours, especially when preparing for audits or financial reporting deadlines.

What are the most commonly searched types of Audit jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Audit jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Audit Associate jobs in Madison, WI?

For Audit Associate jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Audit Associate jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Audit Associate jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Audit Associate jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Audit Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Audit Associate job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,321 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

$104K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Description

The Audit Manager leads the delivery of high-quality audit and assurance services for

clients, providing independent and objective assessments of financial statements,

internal controls, and related processes. This role ensures audits are executed with

integrity, technical excellence, and efficiency while enhancing the reliability of financial

information for stakeholders.

Reports To

Shareholder


Key Responsibilities

1. Audit & Assurance Leadership


  • Lead financial statement audits from planning through issuance
  •  Design and execute risk-based audit approaches tailored to clients
  •  Evaluate internal controls, governance, and risk management processes
  •  Review complex audit areas, financial statements, and disclosures
  •  Ensure compliance with professional standards, independence requirements, and firm methodology

2. Engagement Ownership & Delivery

  • Own engagement success: planning, budgeting, execution, and completion
  • Manage timelines, risks, and resources across multiple engagements
  • Anticipate and resolve issues proactively; escalate when appropriate
  • Ensure accountability across the engagement team for quality and deadlines
  • Manage engagement economics (budget, realization, billing, collections)

3. Client Relationship & Business Insight

  •  Serve as primary day-to-day contact for client leadership (Controllers, CFOs, owners, E.D.'s)
  •  Build and maintain strong, long-term client relationships
  •  Understand client operations, risks, and industry trends
  • Communicate complex audit and financial topics clearly to stakeholders
  • Identify opportunities to expand services and deliver additional value

4. Team Leadership & Development

  •  Lead, coach, and develop team members
  • Leverage team members' strengths to drive performance
  • Use work review as a tool to develop technical and professional skills
  • Provide timely, constructive feedback and manage performance
  • Address conflicts and lead difficult conversations when needed

5. Technology & Innovation

  • Leverage audit technologies, data analytics, and digital tools to improve quality and efficiency
  • Encourage innovation and adoption of new tools and processes
  • Continuously improve engagement workflows and delivery methods

Qualifications & Experience

  • CPA required
  • 5-10+ years of audit/assurance experience (Industry)
  • Strong knowledge of GAAP and auditing standards
  • Proven experience leading engagements and teams
  • Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills
  • Experience with audit technology and data analytics tools (preferred)

Ideal Candidate Profile

  • Recognized as a technical resource in audit and accounting
  • Able to independently resolve complex issues
  • Builds credibility with clients through expertise
  • Thinks like a business advisor, not just a compliance provider
  • Communicates complex ideas clearly to non-technical stakeholders
  • Leads teams with clarity, empathy, and accountability
  • Embraces innovation, technology, and continuous improvement

Requirements

 Qualifications & Experience

  • CPA required
  • 5-10+ years of audit/assurance experience (Industry)
  • Strong knowledge of GAAP and auditing standards
  • Proven experience leading engagements and teams
  • Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills
  • Experience with audit technology and data analytics tools (preferred)

Ideal Candidate Profile

  • Recognized as a technical resource in audit and accounting
  • Able to independently resolve complex issues
  • Builds credibility with clients through expertise
  • Thinks like a business advisor, not just a compliance provider
  • Communicates complex ideas clearly to non-technical stakeholders
  • Leads teams with clarity, empathy, and accountability
  • Embraces innovation, technology, and continuous improvement