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External Audit Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Athene

Senior Associate, Internal Audit

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$79K - $97K/yr

Qualifications and Experience: * 5+ years of relevant experience in internal audit, external audit, or financial services risk and controls within complex, fast-paced, highly regulated environments.

Prairie Flower Casino

Revenue Audit Supervisor

Carter Lake, IA · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Assists both internal and external auditors as necessary. * Performs specialized audits, reviews and projects as directed. * Develops and implements departmental policies and procedures. * Maintains ...

Athene

VP Model Production

West Des Moines, IA

Partner with Financial Reporting, Internal Audit, and External Audit to support controls documentation, testing, and sign-off processes. * Serve as a key actuarial point of contact for external ...

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All JobsExternal Audit JobsExternal Audit Jobs in Iowa

External Audit information

See Iowa salary details

$57.3K

$112.9K

$147.9K

How much do external audit jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for external audit in Iowa is $112,933.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $128,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you do as an external auditor?

An external auditor examines a company's financial statements to ensure accuracy and compliance with accounting standards and regulations. They review financial records, assess internal controls, and prepare audit reports, often working with audit software and adhering to deadlines. Certification such as CPA is typically required for this role.

What are some common challenges external auditors face when working on client engagements?

External auditors often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines during busy season, adapting to different client industries and systems, and maintaining independence while building client relationships. Additionally, auditors must stay updated on evolving accounting standards and ensure high-quality documentation under time pressure. Collaborating effectively with both the client's team and the audit firm’s colleagues is essential for delivering accurate and timely audit results.

Are external auditors in demand?

External auditors are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for financial transparency and regulatory compliance across industries. The profession often requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and certifications such as CPA, with employment opportunities available in accounting firms, corporations, and government agencies.

What is the difference between External Audit vs Internal Auditor?

AspectExternal AuditInternal Auditor
CertificationsCPA, CIACIA, CPA (optional)
Work EnvironmentPublic accounting firms, client sitesCompany's internal department
Primary FocusFinancial statement accuracy for external stakeholdersOperational efficiency and internal controls
Employer & Industry UsageAccounting firms, corporations, governmentCorporations, government agencies

External Auditors primarily verify financial statements for external stakeholders, working with client organizations, often in public accounting firms. Internal Auditors focus on evaluating internal controls and operational processes within the organization. Both roles require similar certifications like CPA or CIA, but their work environment and objectives differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an external auditor?

To thrive as an External Auditor, you need strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of accounting principles, and typically a degree in accounting or finance, often with CPA or equivalent certification. Familiarity with audit software, data analytics tools, and ERP systems is crucial for efficient audit processes. Attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication help build trust and facilitate client relationships. These skills and qualities ensure accurate financial assessments, compliance with regulations, and uphold the credibility of the audit process.

What is external audit?

An external audit is an independent examination of a company's financial statements, usually conducted by a third-party accounting firm. The goal is to provide assurance that the financial records are accurate and comply with accounting standards and regulations. External auditors review financial reports, internal controls, and other relevant information to express an opinion on whether the statements present a true and fair view of the company's financial position. This process helps build trust with stakeholders, such as investors and regulators, by enhancing the credibility of the company's financial information.

What is an external audit job?

An external audit job involves examining a company's financial statements and records to ensure accuracy and compliance with accounting standards and regulations. External auditors typically work for accounting firms and use auditing tools and procedures to assess financial integrity, often requiring certifications like CPA. The role involves reviewing financial data, identifying discrepancies, and providing an independent opinion on the company's financial health.
What are popular job titles related to External Audit jobs in Iowa? For External Audit jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching External Audit jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for External Audit jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for External Audit jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most External Audit job openings:
External Audit jobs near you
Infographic showing various External Audit job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,933 per year, or $54.3 per hour.

Director Internal Audit

United Fire Group

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$154K - $204K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

UFG is seeking a Director - Internal Audit to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the planning, execution, and reporting of the audit function. Reporting directly to the VP, Internal Audit, this role is responsible for managing the audit lifecycle, evaluating the effectiveness of internal controls, and ensuring the audit team delivers high-quality results. The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader with extensive technical expertise, capable of driving department-wide initiatives and mentoring a team of professionals to meet the organization’s evolving risk landscape.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities: 

  • Collaborate with the VP, Internal Audit and business leaders to develop and implement a multi-year, risk-based internal audit plan.
  • Oversee the end-to-end execution of the annual audit plan, ensuring all financial, operational, and compliance projects are completed on time and within budget.
  • Lead the department-wide risk assessment process, identifying emerging risks and refining the audit scope to provide maximum value to the organization.
  • Directly manage and mentor a team of internal audit managers and staff, overseeing talent development, performance evaluations, and resource allocation.
  • Ensure the audit methodology remains best-in-class, incorporating data analytics and continuous monitoring to enhance efficiency.
  • Review and approve high-level audit findings and strategic recommendations, ensuring they are accurately synthesized.
  • Support the VP, Internal Audit in preparing materials, reports, and presentations for senior management and the Audit Committee.
  • Build and maintain executive-level relationships with key stakeholders across the organization to facilitate a culture of transparency and accountability.
  • Provide senior oversight for control testing related to SOX and NAIC Model Audit Rule (MAR), ensuring alignment with external audit requirements.
  • Monitor the implementation of corrective action plans, providing executive-level guidance to auditees on complex remediation efforts.
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for external auditors and regulatory bodies, coordinating annual audit plans and information requests.

Job Specifications: 

Education: 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, Information Technology, Insurance or a related field. A Master’s degree or MBA is highly preferred.

Certifications/Designations: 

  • Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is required.
  • Other relevant certifications (e.g., CISA, CFE) are a plus. 

Experience: 

  • 10+ years of experience in auditing, accounting, or business analysis.
  • 5+ years of experience in a leadership or supervisory role, with a proven track record of managing managers and diverse audit teams.
  • Extensive experience within the insurance or financial services industry is preferred.

Knowledge, skills & abilities: 

  • Expert-level knowledge of accounting principles (GAAP/STAT) and internal control frameworks (COSO, COBIT).
  • Strong executive presence with the ability to influence senior-level management.
  • Advanced project management skills, with the ability to oversee multiple complex workstreams simultaneously.
  • High level of integrity, objectivity, and professional skepticism.

Pay Transparency Statement

UFG Insurance is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The base salary range for this position is $154,858.25 - $204,236.75 annually, which represents the typical range for new hires in this role. Individual pay within this range will be determined based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, education, certifications, skills, internal equity, geography and market data. 

In addition to base salary, UFG Insurance offers a comprehensive total rewards package that includes:

  • Annual incentive compensation
  • Medical, dental, vision & life insurance
  • Accident, critical Illness & short-term disability insurance
  • Retirement plans with employer contributions
  • Generous time-off program
  • Programs designed to support the employee well-being and financial security.

This pay range disclosure is provided in accordance with applicable state and local pay transparency laws.

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