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Forensic Accounting Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Bankruptcy knowledge relevant to this position includes, but is not limited to, insolvency, regulatory and/or forensic accounting with respect to state court receivership proceedings, non-bankruptcy ...

Our Regulatory, Risk, & Forensic Operate offering supports clients by delivering Operate services ... Bachelor's degree preferably in accounting, finance, or related discipline; or equivalent ...

Our Regulatory, Risk, & Forensic Operate offering supports clients by delivering Operate services ... Bachelor's degree preferably in accounting, finance, or related discipline; or equivalent ...

Forensic Accounting information

See Iowa salary details

$53.5K

$80K

$143.7K

How much do forensic accounting jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic accounting in Iowa is $80,003.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,900.00 and $79,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you do as a forensic accountant?

A forensic accountant investigates financial records to detect fraud, embezzlement, or other financial crimes. They analyze data, prepare reports, and may testify in court, often using accounting skills, auditing tools, and certifications like CPA or CFE. Their work supports legal proceedings and helps organizations prevent financial misconduct.

Is there a demand for forensic accountants?

Forensic accountants are in high demand due to increasing financial fraud, white-collar crime, and regulatory compliance needs. They often work in accounting firms, law enforcement, or corporate environments, and certifications like CPA or CFE can enhance job prospects. The field is expected to grow as financial investigations become more complex and critical.

What are some common challenges forensic accountants face when working on financial investigations?

Forensic accountants often encounter challenges such as deciphering complex financial records, detecting well-concealed fraud, and working under tight deadlines, especially when litigation is involved. They must also remain objective and meticulous, as their findings could be scrutinized in court. Additionally, collaborating with legal teams, law enforcement, and sometimes reluctant witnesses requires strong communication and interpersonal skills. These challenges make adaptability and attention to detail essential traits for success in this role.

Do I need to be a CPA to be a forensic accountant?

A forensic accountant does not need to be a CPA, but many professionals in the field hold CPA certification or other accounting credentials. Relevant skills include strong analytical abilities, knowledge of accounting standards, and experience with financial investigations; certifications like CFE or CPA can enhance job prospects. Employers may require or prefer these credentials, but they are not universally mandatory for entry into forensic accounting roles.

What is the difference between Forensic Accounting vs Auditing?

AspectForensic AccountingAuditing
Required CredentialsCPA, CFE often preferredCPA, sometimes CIA or other certifications
Work EnvironmentLegal settings, courts, investigationsCorporate, external or internal audit departments
Industry UsageLegal cases, fraud investigationsFinancial statement verification

Forensic accounting and auditing both require CPA credentials and involve financial analysis. However, forensic accounting focuses on legal investigations and fraud detection, often working in legal or court settings. Auditing primarily involves examining financial statements for accuracy within corporate or external environments. While they share skills, their roles differ in purpose and work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Accountant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Accountant, you need a strong background in accounting, auditing, and investigative analysis, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance and often a CPA or CFE certification. Familiarity with forensic accounting software, data analytics tools, and advanced spreadsheet applications is essential for conducting thorough investigations. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting complex financial data and presenting findings to stakeholders. These skills are vital for accurately identifying financial discrepancies, supporting legal proceedings, and maintaining the integrity of financial systems.

What is forensic accounting?

Forensic accounting is a specialized field of accounting that involves investigating financial records to detect fraud, embezzlement, or other financial crimes. Forensic accountants use their expertise in accounting and auditing to analyze financial data and present their findings in legal proceedings if necessary. They often work with law enforcement agencies, lawyers, and courts to help resolve disputes or prosecute criminal cases. Their work may also include tracing assets, calculating damages, and providing expert testimony in court.

How much do forensic accountants earn per month?

Forensic accountants typically earn between $4,000 and $8,000 per month, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of cases they handle. Senior professionals with specialized certifications like CPA or CFE may earn higher salaries, especially in larger firms or consulting roles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Accounting jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Forensic Accounting jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Accounting jobs in Iowa? For Forensic Accounting jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Accounting jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Accounting jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Forensic Accounting job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,003 per year, or $38.5 per hour.
Auditor

$89K/yr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

This is a public notice flyer. Applications will not be accepted through USA Jobs. If you are interested in applying, please see the official announcement on the DOJs Legal Careers page by following the links below:
  • U.S. Trustee Program | Auditor Recruitment
  • https://www.justice.gov/ust/employment-opportunities/Auditor-Recruitment
Qualifications:Qualifications

Selective Placement Factor

Applicants must be eligible for an Excepted Service appointment under Schedule B, 213.3210 (e). This appointment authority requires that the selectee possess knowledge of the bankruptcy process. Bankruptcy knowledge relevant to this position includes, but is not limited to, insolvency, regulatory and/or forensic accounting with respect to state court receivership proceedings, non-bankruptcy insolvency proceedings and/or non-judicial reorganizations, liquidations, or termination of a business and its assets as well as the financial analysis of the viability of a business entity. This knowledge may have been acquired through a combination of professional experience, academic coursework, internships or externships, volunteer service, or similar activities.

Failure to demonstrate knowledge of the bankruptcy process in the resume will result in disqualification.

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Degree: accounting; or a degree in a related field such as business administration, finance, or public administration that included or was supplemented by twenty-four (24) semester hours in accounting. The twenty-four semester hours may include up to six (6) credit hours in business

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Combination of education and experience: at least four (4) years of experience in accounting, or an equivalent combination of accounting experience, college-level education, and training that provided professional accounting knowledge. The applicant's background must also include one of the following:

  1. Twenty-four (24) semester hours in accounting or auditing courses of appropriate type and quality. This can include up to six (6) hours of business law;
  2. A certificate as Certified Public Accountant or a Certified Internal Auditor, obtained through written examination; or
  3. Completion of the requirements for a degree that included substantial course work in accounting or auditing, at least fifteen (15) semester-hours. Applicant does not need to fully satisfy the twenty-four semester-hour requirement provided that:
    1. The applicant has successfully worked at the full-performance level in accounting, auditing, or a related field, e.g., valuation engineering or financial institution examination;
    2. A panel of at least two higher-level professional accountants or auditors has determined that the applicant demonstrates a knowledge of accounting and related fields equal in breadth, depth, currency, and level of advancement to that which is normally associated with successful completion of the four (4) year course of study described; and
    3. Besides nonconformance to the requirement of twenty-four (24) semester hours in accounting, the applicant's education, training, and experience fully meet the specified requirements.

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Specialized Experience Requirement

Specialized experience is defined as performing a variety of audits in a professional, pre-professional, or academic setting that utilize advanced auditing techniques and involve reporting findings. In their resume, an applicant must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the lower grade level or pay band in the Federal service, or similar experience in the private or public sector as a professional auditor carrying out tasks and duties that involve:

To qualify for a GS-12: preparing, examining, or analyzing accounting records and financial statements/reports to assess accuracy, completeness, and conformance to procedural standards.

To qualify for a GS-13: applying an understanding of auditing principles, business operations, and financial statements. Preparing audit plans to most appropriately gather and evaluate pertinent data.

To qualify for a GS-14: applying auditing principles, concepts, practices, and analytical methods and techniques. Providing recommended actions in accordance with industry and regulatory standards.

Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER