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 execute audit fieldwork per Firm policies, budget, and timeline.
  • Document, validate, and assess internal control systems.
  • Determine and communicate improvements to client internal controls and accounting procedures.
  • Supervise audit staff, review workpapers, and explain 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; analyze alternative GASB principles with superiors.
  • Identify complex accounting issues and escalate for resolution.
• GAAS/GAGAS:
  • Apply professional standards and document their application.
  • Formulate and communicate the audit plan.
  • Apply GAGAS to complex issues and consult as needed.
  • Exercise audit skepticism and adjust testing scope.
  • 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 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 management and clients.
  • Prepare written findings and collect corrective action plans for UG reports.
• Methodology:
  • Apply BDO standards for quality service delivery.
  • Use BDO audit tools and technology to execute audits efficiently.
  • Identify and propose outcomes for critical issues.
• Research:
  • Use internal and external research tools for routine requests.
  • Research complex accounting areas and form initial opinions.
  • Document findings from sources like Accounting Research Manager.
  • Assist in gathering information for audit strategy preparation.
• Project Management:
  • Coordinate audit planning, fieldwork, and review with the team and client.
  • Develop audit engagement budgets and identify resources.
  • Draft Audit Engagement Planning Memorandum, audit programs, and budgets.
  • Monitor and report budget vs. actual performance.
  • Assign responsibilities to audit staff and supervise their work.
• Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • Supervise a team of 1–5 audit professionals.
  • Provide verbal and written performance feedback to associates.
  • Mentor associates through on-the-job learning.

Requirements

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

Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication.
• People development and delegation skills.
• Executive presence and ability to act as primary client contact.
• Ability to manage all audit stages (planning, fieldwork, wrap-up).
• Experience completing audits for complex organizations.
• Ability to prepare/review financial statements with GAAP disclosures.

Pay

Salaries are determined based on qualifications, experience, skills, and geography. Ranges:

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

About Us

BDO is a professional services firm offering assurance, tax, and advisory services. We prioritize flexibility, career growth, and a culture centered on meaningful connections. As an ESOP company, we share financial growth with our U.S. team through beneficial ownership. Our purpose is to help people thrive every day, delivering exceptional outcomes for clients and communities.

• Empower team members to explore their full potential.
• Leverage diverse skills and experiences to support clients.
• Celebrate innovation to transform our business and clients’ operations.
• Focus on resilience and sustainability for positive impact.

BDO offers Total Rewards encompassing compensation, benefits, and career development. Learn more about our benefits.