Audit Associate - State and Local Government

About the Firm

CLA is a top 10 national professional services firm dedicated to creating opportunities for clients, people, and communities through industry-focused wealth advisory, digital, audit, tax, consulting, and outsourcing practices. With over 8,500 professionals across 130 U.S. locations and global reach, CLA fosters a culture that values diverse beliefs and perspectives to better serve clients and communities.

About the Role

We are seeking an Audit Associate to join our State and Local Government (SLG) practice in Southern California. The SLG group is one of the fastest-growing practice areas at CLA, with 600 professionals serving over 2,100 local, county, and state government agencies.

Responsibilities

• Perform detailed audit work, reviews, compilations, and other assurance services for clients.
• Support multiple client engagements of varying size and complexity, ensuring timely and within-budget completion while communicating progress and results to supervisors.
• Complete assigned portions of engagements with consistency, accuracy, and within tight deadlines.
• Proactively interact and communicate with clients to gather information for timely engagement wrap-up.
• Audit complex areas/transactions and prepare financial statements and related reports.
• Begin directing small audits at the two-year level.
• Collaborate with managers and principals to ensure effective communication and service delivery.
• Develop and maintain effective client relationships.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 1 year of relevant experience in professional services (completed internship(s) may qualify).
• State and Local Government audit industry experience is a plus.
• CPA or eligibility to sit for the CPA exam preferred.
• General knowledge of accounting principles and regulations impacting financial markets, analysis, and reporting of financial data.
• Understanding of internal software systems (Pfx Fixed Assets, Pfx Engagement, CCH Access Tax, XCM, etc.).
• Proficiency with MS Office products (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.).

Pay

The compensation range for this position in California is $65,000 - $110,000. Factors such as geography, experience, education, skills, and knowledge may influence pay within this range.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401k retirement plan.
• Wellness programs supporting physical, financial, social, and emotional well-being.