Experienced Audit Senior, State & Local Government

About the Role

The State and Local Government (SLG) Experienced Audit Senior will coordinate day-to-day "in-charge" duties, including planning, fieldwork, and wrap-up. Responsibilities include preparing financial statements with disclosures, applying GAAP, documenting and assessing control systems, and acting as the client contact for basic questions. This role may also involve reviews and agreed-upon procedure engagements.

Responsibilities

• Control Environment:
  • Apply knowledge of policies and procedures to enhance effectiveness or mitigate risks.
  • Work with the engagement manager to ensure fieldwork is executed as planned, on time, and within budget.
  • Document, validate, and assess the effectiveness of internal control systems.
  • Determine and communicate improvements to client internal controls and accounting procedures.
  • Supervise audit staff, review workpapers, and explain any shortcomings.
• GAAP:
  • Apply Governmental Accounting Standards (GASB) to client transactions and communicate understanding.
  • Understand and communicate GASB financial statement disclosure requirements.
  • Review Basic Financial Statements, including MD&A, notes, and Required Supplementary Information.
  • Identify and apply new GASB pronouncements to client situations.
  • Analyze and discuss alternative GASB accounting principles with superiors.
  • Identify complex accounting issues and escalate them for resolution.
• GAAS/GAGAS:
  • Apply professional standards and document their application on engagements.
  • Formulate and communicate the audit plan.
  • Apply GAGAS to complex issues and consult others as needed.
  • Exercise audit skepticism and adjust testing as necessary.
  • Use BDO audit manuals and document deviations from policy.
  • Suggest improvements to internal controls and draft required communications.
  • Ensure compliance with engagement independence requirements.
  • Review required client communications for completeness and accuracy.
• Uniform Guidance:
  • Apply Uniform Guidance (UG) standards and document their application.
  • Select major programs consistent with UG standards.
  • Develop and execute audit strategies for compliance requirements.
  • Identify audit findings and communicate them to superiors and clients.
  • Prepare written findings and facilitate corrective action plans.
• Methodology:
  • Apply BDO standards for effective and efficient service delivery.
  • Use BDO audit approach, tools, and technology to execute audits with quality and efficiency.
  • Identify and propose outcomes to critical issues.
• Research:
  • Use internal and external research tools for routine and complex accounting issues.
  • Form initial opinions on correct accounting treatments and document their impact.
  • Document and organize findings from research tools.
  • Assist the engagement manager with gathering information for audit strategy.
• Project Management:
  • Coordinate timing of planning, fieldwork, and review with the audit team and client.
  • Assist in developing the audit engagement budget and identifying resources.
  • Draft the Audit Engagement Planning Memorandum, audit programs, and budgets.
  • Establish responsibilities for individual audit staff.
  • Monitor and report engagement budget vs. actual and advise on potential overruns.
• Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • Supervise a team of 1 to 5 audit professionals.
  • Provide verbal and written performance feedback to associates.
  • Coach associates through on-the-job learning.
• Perform other duties as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or equivalent (required).
• Master’s degree in Accounting (preferred).
• Three (3) or more years of prior work experience in public accounting (required).
• Prior supervisory experience (preferred).
• Experience with public sector entities and related organizations (preferred).
• Single audit experience (preferred).
• Actively pursuing CPA (required).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Products (Windows, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Experience with assurance applications and research tools.

Skills

• Proven solid verbal and written communication skills.
• People development and delegation skills.
• Executive presence to serve as the primary client contact.
• Ability to manage all stages of the audit (planning, fieldwork, wrap-up).
• Ability to perform audits of complex companies.
• Ability to prepare and/or review financial statements with disclosures in accordance with GAAP.

Pay

Individual salaries are determined based on qualifications, experience, skills, and geography. Ranges are as follows:

• National Range: $115,000 - $135,000
• Maryland Range: $115,000 - $135,000
• NYC/Long Island/Westchester Range: $115,000 - $135,000

Benefits

BDO offers Total Rewards that encompass more than traditional benefits, including:

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): Fully funded by BDO through investments in company stock, granting employees the chance to grow wealth over time as shares vest and grow in value.

Benefits may be subject to eligibility requirements. Learn more about BDO Total Rewards.

About Us

At BDO, we offer more than a career—we provide a place where your work is impactful and you are valued for your individuality. Our culture centers on flexibility, opportunities for advancement, and making meaningful connections. We are committed to helping people thrive every day by delivering exceptional and sustainable outcomes for our people, clients, and communities.

BDO is an ESOP company, reflecting a culture that prioritizes its people by sharing financially in the firm’s growth. We provide assurance, tax, and advisory services for a diverse range of clients across the U.S. and in over 160 countries through our global organization.

We empower team members to explore their full potential, leverage diverse skills and experiences, and celebrate innovation to transform our business and help clients navigate challenges. Our focus on resilience and sustainability positively impacts our people, clients, and communities.