1

External Audit Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Snr Internal Audit Analyst

Skokie, IL · Hybrid

$90K - $105K/yr

The position partners with internal audit leadership, control owners, third-party co-source partners, external audit resources, and local management to evaluate risks, strengthen controls, and ...

Snr Internal Audit Analyst

Skokie, IL · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

The position partners with internal audit leadership, control owners, third-party co-source partners, external audit resources, and local management to evaluate risks, strengthen controls, and ...

Audit Manager

Oak Brook, IL · On-site +1

$105K - $137K/yr

Manage and supervise the execution of external audit engagements of various clients in accordance with relevant regulatory and professional auditing and assurance standards * Keep current and ...

Master's Degree * 10 plus years of overall experience in either internal audit, external audit, consulting, or public accounting * CIA and/or CFE Certification * Experience managing and overseeing ...

Master's Degree * 10 plus years of overall experience in either internal audit, external audit, consulting, or public accounting * CIA and/or CFE Certification * Experience managing and overseeing ...

Audit Manager - Commercial Services

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$107K - $140K/yr

Your background should have experience in external audit working with Food & Commodities, Metals, Supply Chain, Cannabis, Healthcare, Technology Media Telecommunications, Consumer Markets, Life ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

External Audit information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$62.8K

$123.9K

$162.2K

How much do external audit jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for external audit in Chicago, IL is $123,860.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,100.00 and $140,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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 requires strong analytical skills and often benefits from certifications like CPA, with employment opportunities available in accounting firms, corporations, and government agencies.

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 professional standards such as GAAS or ISA.

What are the most commonly searched types of External Audit jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of External Audit jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to External Audit jobs in Chicago, IL?

For External Audit jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching External Audit jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for External Audit jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for External Audit jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most External Audit job openings:

Infographic showing various External Audit job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,860 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

Snr Internal Audit Analyst

Skokie, IL • Hybrid

DRiV
Motor Vehicle Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$90K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Senior Internal Audit Analyst
DRiV | Finance & Controllership
 Hybrid | Skokie, Illinois

Position Overview

The Senior Internal Audit Analyst is responsible for supporting the execution of internal audit, internal controls, and control monitoring activities for DRiV in a high-quality manner and within budgeted timing and costs. This role supports the development, coordination, and reporting of the internal controls framework, including Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) Section 404 documentation and control assessment activities. The position partners with internal audit leadership, control owners, third-party co-source partners, external audit resources, and local management to evaluate risks, strengthen controls, and support timely completion of audit deliverables.

Key Responsibilities

Internal Controls & SOX Support

  • Support the setup, maintenance, and coordination of the internal controls framework, including cloud-based control assessment and monitoring tools.
  • Coordinate, assist, and support reporting of the control assessment framework, including status tracking, documentation quality, and completion of required deliverables.
  • Assist with the development, review, and maintenance of SOX Section 404 documentation, control narratives, risk control matrices, testing evidence, and remediation tracking.
  • Partner with control owners to evaluate control design and operating effectiveness and help identify practical recommendations to strengthen the control environment.

Audit Execution & Coordination

  • Manage audit data rooms and support the preparation, organization, and completion of audit evidence for assigned audits.
  • Coordinate with third-party co-source partners and support meetings and discussions with local management throughout the audit lifecycle.
  • Assist audit leadership with supervision and coordination of external audit resources during internal audit and control testing activities.
  • Perform and support internal audit procedures, document results clearly, and ensure audit workpapers are complete, accurate, and aligned with internal audit standards.

Risk Assessment, Reporting & Special Projects

  • Support the annual risk assessment process used to establish the internal audit plan.
  • Assist in preparing quarterly reports and audit updates for corporate management, independent auditors, and the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
  • Participate in special projects focused on process improvement, control enhancement, audit readiness, and standardization of audit and control documentation.
  • Provide timely status updates, escalate issues appropriately, and support follow-up on remediation activities and management action plans.
Required Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or equivalent required.

Certification

CPA, CIA, CA, CMA, or equivalent professional certification preferred.

Experience

Minimum three years of finance, accounting, internal audit, external audit, or controls-related experience required; experience developing or auditing SOX Section 404 documentation required; familiarity with SAP, ERP environments, IT systems, and automated controls preferred.

Core Competencies

  • Strong understanding of U.S. GAAP, GAAS, SOX requirements, and internal control concepts.
  • Working knowledge of the Institute of Internal Auditors' Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing.
  • Ability to plan, organize, document, and complete audit and control monitoring activities with a high degree of quality and attention to detail.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify control gaps, develop practical recommendations, and support remediation efforts.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to interact professionally with local management, co-source partners, external auditors, and corporate leadership.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Self-starter with a demonstrated history of achievement, strong ownership mindset, and ability to work independently with limited supervision.
  • Flexible and collaborative team player capable of providing support as requested by internal audit leadership.
  • Manufacturing or automotive industry experience preferred.

Compensation:The base pay for this position generally ranges between $90,000.00 to $105,000.00. Additional incentives may be provided as part of a market competitive total compensation package. Factors, such as but not limited to, geographical location, relevant experience, education, and skill level may impact the pay for this position.  

DRiV | Reports to: Director, Internal Controls & Audit