How to Be Systems Auditor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 7, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

An effective Systems Auditor is essential for any business as they are responsible for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the company's financial information. They identify potential risks to the system, evaluate the organization's overall financial health and compliance with industry regulations, and recommend improvements. The results of their work can have far-reaching effects, such as improved security of information systems, increased efficiency of operations, and improved accuracy of financial statements.

the Systems Auditor can help the organization reduce costs associated with maintaining their systems, as well as identify areas for improvement that can help increase profitability. a reliable Systems Auditor can help protect an organization's assets and ensure the company is meeting its goals.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. A bachelor's degree in accounting, business, computer science, information systems or a related field is a great start for a career as a systems auditor.
Obtain Certification. Obtaining certification in systems auditing can open up more job opportunities and is often required for some positions. The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) offers the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification.
Gain Experience. Most employers prefer to hire individuals with experience in the field. Working as an intern or an entry-level position in accounting or information systems can provide the necessary experience to become a systems auditor.
Develop Knowledge and Skills. Experience and training will provide the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful auditor. Familiarity with accounting principles and practices, auditing standards, and computer and information systems are essential.
Maintain Certifications. Systems auditors must maintain their certifications by meeting continuing education requirements. The IIA requires that CISA-certified auditors complete 40 hours of continuing education every three years.

Systems Auditors must continually strive to stay informed and competent in order to remain professional. One of the best ways to accomplish this is to pursue ongoing professional development and training opportunities. This may include taking courses, attending conferences and seminars, research, reading industry publications, and networking with colleagues.

As a result, Systems Auditors can keep their skills and knowledge up to date, stay abreast of new technologies, and better understand the business environment they are auditing. This can lead to improved audit performance and greater credibility with stakeholders, ultimately leading to enhanced client satisfaction.

You may want to check External Auditor, Accounts Auditor, and Senior Financial Auditor for alternative.

Job Description

Perform risk assessments to identify potential security vulnerabilities and suggest remedies.
Monitor system access and utilization to ensure appropriate access levels are maintained.
Review system security logs to identify suspicious activity and investigate potential breaches.
Analyze system configuration changes to ensure compliance with security policies.
Develop audit plans and reports to document control weaknesses.
Create and update security policies and procedures.
Lead the investigation of security incidents and develop recommendations to prevent future incidents.
Test the effectiveness of IT systems, networks, and applications for compliance with security policies and regulations.
Train IT staff on security best practices and procedures.
Provide consulting services to clients on security matters.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of accounting and auditing standards, principles, and practices.
Ability to analyze financial data and identify discrepancies.
Proficiency in using computer-aided auditing tools and software.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Knowledge of organizational policies and procedures.
Attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Knowledge of relevant regulations and laws.

Data security is of the utmost importance in any organization and a Systems Auditor plays an essential role in ensuring that data is kept safe. As such, the most important skill for a Systems Auditor to possess is the ability to analyze data and identify potential vulnerabilities. With the right analytical skills, a Systems Auditor can detect potential security threats, detect suspicious activity, and ensure that the systems and processes of an organization are up to date with the latest security protocols.

Furthermore, a Systems Auditor should be able to communicate effectively with others involved in the protection of data, such as IT professionals and data security officers, in order to put into place the necessary safeguards. Finally, a Systems Auditor must have strong problem-solving skills so that they can effectively identify and address any issues related to data security. With these skills, a Systems Auditor can help maintain the integrity and reliability of an organization's data.

Senior Cost Auditor, Payroll Auditor, and Cost Auditor are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience have you had with auditing information systems?
How do you ensure that an IT system meets audit requirements?
What is your experience with developing audit plans and procedures?
How do you ensure that data is complete and accurate?
Describe a time when you identified and reported an information security risk.
What methods do you use to assess the effectiveness of system controls?
Describe your experience with assessing the integrity of critical databases.
How do you evaluate compliance with applicable laws and regulations?
What process do you use to review system access logs?
How do you ensure that an IT system is secure and reliable?

Common Tools in Industry

Risk Management Software. This software helps to identify, assess, and manage risks associated with various business processes. (eg: MetricStream)
Internal Audit Software. This software helps to automate and streamline the auditing of internal business activities. (eg: ProcessGene)
Data Analytics Software. This software helps to analyze and visualize data to uncover trends, anomalies, and insights. (eg: Tableau)
Configuration Management Software. This software helps to track and manage changes in IT systems, processes, and infrastructure. (eg: Puppet)
Vulnerability Scanning Software. This software helps to detect security weaknesses in a network or system. (eg: Nessus)
Identity and Access Management Software. This software helps to manage user access privileges and authentication. (eg: Okta)
Continuous Auditing Software. This software helps to monitor and audit activities in real-time. (eg: AuditBoard)
Document Management Software. This software helps to store, organize, and manage documents electronically. (eg: Microsoft SharePoint)

Professional Organizations to Know

Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)
Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
Institute of Management Accountants (IMA)
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
Information Systems Security Association (ISSA)
Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW)
International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)²
The Federation of European Risk Management Associations (FERMA)
The Institute of Risk Management (IRM)
The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)

We also have Senior Compliance Monitoring Auditor, Information Systems Auditor, and Operational Risk Management Auditor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Risk Assessment. A process of analyzing potential risks and creating strategies to mitigate them.
Auditing. An independent assessment of internal processes and controls to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable regulations.
Compliance. Adherence to laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
Internal Controls. Policies, procedures, and practices used to protect an organizations assets and ensure the accuracy of its financial records.
Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX). A law passed in 2002 that requires public companies to establish and maintain a system of internal controls to prevent fraud and protect investors.
GAAP. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, a set of standards that public companies must follow when preparing financial statements.
IT Audit. An independent review of an organizations information technology systems and processes to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a Systems Auditor? A1: A Systems Auditor is a professional who evaluates and audits the internal systems, processes, and controls of an organization for accuracy and efficiency. Q2: What qualifications are needed to become a Systems Auditor? A2: To become a Systems Auditor, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, information technology, or another related field. Additionally, certifications such as Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) may be beneficial. Q3: How many hours per week do Systems Auditors typically work? A3: Systems Auditors typically work a standard 40-hour work week, with occasional overtime hours depending on the workload. Q4: What is the average salary of a Systems Auditor? A4: The average salary of a Systems Auditor is approximately $78,400 per year. Q5: What are some of the duties of a Systems Auditor? A5: Some of the duties of a Systems Auditor include evaluating internal systems, processes and controls for accuracy and efficiency; developing audit plans; preparing audit reports; and making recommendations for improvement.