Internal Audit Associate

EquiTrust External•Chicago, IL

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

As an Internal Audit Associate, you will support the Internal Audit team in evaluating and improving the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management processes, and operational practices across the organization. Working closely with audit team members and business partners, you will assist with audit testing, documentation, and process reviews that help mitigate financial, operational, compliance, and fraud-related risks. This role is ideal for someone who is curious, detail-oriented, eager to learn, and interested in developing a career in internal audit, risk management, or financial services.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Analytical mindset with problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
Strong attention to detail and process orientation.
Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks effectively.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel; familiarity with Visio is a plus.
Basic understanding of internal audit principles, accounting concepts, or risk management practices.
Ability to build positive working relationships and collaborate across teams.
Growth mindset with a willingness to learn, seek feedback, and continuously develop professionally.

Nice To Haves

Degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business, or a related field preferred.
Prior internship or relevant experience in auditing, accounting, finance, risk management, or a related area is preferred.
Recent graduates with relevant coursework, internships, or demonstrated interest in internal audit are encouraged to apply.
Professional certifications such as CPA or CIA, or progress toward obtaining them, are a plus but not required.

Responsibilities

Assist with audit walkthroughs, control testing, and substantive testing to evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls.
Document audit procedures, findings, and supporting evidence through workpapers, flowcharts, and related audit documentation.
Develop an understanding of business processes, risks, and controls while learning internal audit methodologies and best practices.
Support audit requests related to regulatory examinations and external audits.
Communicate project status and audit-related updates to audit team members and stakeholders.
Collaborate with colleagues across departments to gather information and support audit activities.
Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and team-oriented work environment.
Participate in continuous learning opportunities to enhance audit, risk, and business knowledge.
Support additional projects and departmental initiatives as needed.