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External Auditor Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Mayvin®

COMSEC Auditor

Washington, DC · On-site

Comsec Auditor This position supports our customer's nationwide TSCM program with strategic and operational support across various locations, providing essential contributions to safeguarding ...

FARMER MAC

Internal Auditor

Washington, DC · On-site

$92K - $125K/yr

Document testing and results consistent with required SOX workpaper standards to facilitate external auditor reliance, where applicable. * Apply lessons learned from prior audits and identify ...

Anne Arundel County

Senior Staff Auditor

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$76K - $140K/yr

Experience in internal/external auditing, financial analysis, and/or investigative work, preferably in a regulatory or compliance-focused environment Strong understanding of financial/accounting ...

NVR Inc

Senior Internal Auditor

Reston, VA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Coordinate with fellow Internal Auditors, external auditors, and consultants to complete assigned projects * Assess and respond to emerging ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance) trends and ...

Osv_edf

Director, External Audits

Washington, DC · Hybrid

The Director serves as a key liaison with external auditors, regulatory agencies, funders, and internal leadership while strengthening internal controls and compliance processes. This position ...

Cherry Bekaert

Accounting Manager 16806515

Vienna, VA · On-site

Ensure accurate fund accounting and grant compliance * Assist with audit preparation and external auditor coordination * Supervise and mentor accounting staff within a multi-client environment

Premier Group

Staff Auditor

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

At least 1 year of recent, relevant experience with external financial audits for non-profits and ... To succeed as our Staff Auditor, you'll need meticulous attention to detail and an analytical ...

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All JobsExternal Auditor JobsExternal Auditor Jobs in Washington

External Auditor information

See Washington salary details

$73.1K

$98.5K

$110.4K

How much do external auditor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for external auditor in Washington is $98,481.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,100.00 and $104,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do you need a CPA to be an external auditor?

While a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is not always mandatory to work as an external auditor, many employers prefer or require CPAs due to the professional standards and credibility it provides. In some jurisdictions and for certain roles, obtaining a CPA can enhance job prospects and is often necessary for performing audits of public companies or regulated entities. Additionally, relevant experience, accounting knowledge, and familiarity with auditing standards are essential for external auditors.

What is the difference between External Auditor vs Internal Auditor?

AspectExternal AuditorInternal Auditor
CertificationsCPA, CIACIA, CPA (optional)
Work EnvironmentIndependent, client sites, audit firmsCompany’s internal department
Primary FocusFinancial statement accuracy for external stakeholdersOperational efficiency and risk management
EmployerPublic accounting firms, corporationsWithin the organization

External Auditors primarily focus on verifying financial statements for external parties, working independently at client sites, and often hold CPA or CIA certifications. Internal Auditors work within a company to improve internal controls and processes, typically holding CIA or CPA credentials. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in work environment and objectives, with External Auditors emphasizing external compliance and Internal Auditors focusing on internal improvements.

What is an external auditor?

An external auditor assesses an organization’s financial statements and other legal documents for accuracy and legal compliance. Shareholders or board members typically hire external auditors to serve as an objective party to determine whether or not the finances or the company are being reported correctly. As an external auditor, you compile and examine financial records, ensure that financial reporting complies with legal and industry regulations, and detail any signs of fraud. You need to be a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with several years of experience in accounting to pursue a career as an external auditor.

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 keen attention to detail, and a degree in accounting or finance, often accompanied by certifications such as CPA or ACCA. Familiarity with audit software, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, and data analytics tools is typically required. Excellent communication, integrity, and critical thinking are vital soft skills for building client trust and navigating complex audit scenarios. These competencies ensure accurate financial assessments, compliance with regulations, and the delivery of valuable insights to clients.

What are some common challenges faced by external auditors during client engagements?

External auditors often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, managing large volumes of complex financial data, and ensuring clear communication with client stakeholders. They must also remain independent and objective while building rapport with client teams, which can be delicate if audit findings highlight areas for improvement. Navigating evolving regulatory requirements and maintaining up-to-date technical knowledge are also critical aspects of the role, requiring auditors to be adaptable and detail-oriented.

How much do external auditors get paid?

External auditors typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $60,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level auditors may start at lower salaries, while senior auditors and managers can earn significantly more, especially with professional certifications like CPA.
More about External Auditor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of External Auditor jobs in Washington? The most popular types of External Auditor jobs in Washington are:
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What cities in Washington are hiring for External Auditor jobs? Cities in Washington with the most External Auditor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to External Auditor jobs in WA? For External Auditor jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
External Auditor jobs near you
Infographic showing various External Auditor job openings in Washington 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 $98,481 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

COMSEC Auditor

Mayvin®

Washington, DC • On-site

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Comsec Auditor

This position supports our customer's nationwide TSCM program with strategic and operational support across various locations, providing essential contributions to safeguarding classified and sensitive information from foreign and domestic threats. This initiative offers an opportunity to contribute to national security through cutting-edge technical and security-focused roles.

The Comsec Auditor will provide support in conducting Comsec audits and training to ensure the protection of Comsec materials and Controlled Cryptographic Items (CCI). The candidate must have expertise in Comsec and Central Office of Record (COR) operations and requirements. This role requires maintaining Comsec databases and coordinating with the National Security Agency (NSA). Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential for working with senior-level field oversight. The position may be located in multiple locations, including Washington, DC, Albuquerque, NM, and Oak Ridge, TN.

Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Must have an active Top Secret/DOE Q clearance with SCI eligibility.

Contingent upon award of Contract.

Responsibilities:

  • Plan, coordinate, and conduct Comsec audits and inventories in accordance with national policies for the protection of Comsec materials and CCI
  • Prepare audit reports, review Comsec requests, and conduct inquiries into Comsec incidents
  • Develop and deliver Comsec training and briefings
  • Perform day-to-day COR activities, including account management and coordination with the National Office of Record
  • Maintain electronic databases, records, and documentation of Comsec operations
  • Assist with Comsec key transfers and training certifications as required
  • Travel to field sites to conduct audits, inventories, training, and operational support

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of five (5) years of combined experience conducting Comsec audits and/or COR operations
  • Demonstrated experience in the protection of Type 1 encryption keys, CCI, and supporting Comsec accounts
  • Knowledge of NSA and CNSS policies and requirements for Comsec operations
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
  • Ability to maintain and manage Comsec databases and records
  • Experience providing training and guidance on Comsec protocols and procedures
  • Bachelor's degree preferred but not required

Apply