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Inside Higher Ed

Auditor, IT and Research

Inside Higher Ed, Atlanta, Georgia, United States, 30383

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Overview

Georgia State University is seeking a Research Auditor who will be responsible for assessing the effectiveness of internal controls, compliance, and risk management related to sponsored research at the university. This includes conducting audits and reviews of grants, contracts, and research administration processes to ensure alignment with federal regulations (e.g., Uniform Guidance), sponsor requirements, and institutional policies. The role involves planning and executing audit procedures, analyzing data, communicating with research stakeholders, and developing recommendations to strengthen accountability, compliance, and operational efficiency. Responsibilities

Under limited supervision, perform audit procedures related to research compliance, grants management, and sponsored program activities. Execute and document testing of internal controls and business processes, focusing on federal, state, and institutional requirements. Prepare clear, well-organized work papers that support audit procedures and conclusions. Review grant documentation, analyze financial and programmatic data, and test for compliance with applicable policies and regulations (e.g., Uniform Guidance, sponsor terms and conditions). Identify root causes of control or compliance issues and develop practical, risk-based recommendations to improve accountability, efficiency, and adherence to research requirements. Lead and participate in planning meetings and periodic status updates with research administration and departmental leadership to assess and refine the audit scope. Participate in entrance and exit conferences to communicate objectives, preliminary observations, and final results. Communicate effectively with internal audit team members to share insights and coordinate audit efforts. Engage with client personnel—such as principal investigators, grant administrators, and compliance staff—through clear and professional verbal and written communication. Prepare audit memoranda, reports, and other documentation, including recommendations to enhance compliance and strengthen controls. Demonstrate strong higher education and research acumen, independently perform data analysis, interpret trends related to sponsored research activities, and connect audit findings to broader institutional impacts. Develop and execute procedures to assess adherence to federal and sponsor regulations, evaluate internal controls, and identify risks across research programs. Provide guidance to staff auditors in designing and executing testing procedures aligned with research-specific objectives. Show strong project management skills by managing audit timelines and budgets, developing detailed audit plans, tracking milestones, and reporting progress to audit leadership. Coordinate resources and guide team members to ensure work stays on track and meets deadlines. Monitor project risks and communicate proactively to resolve obstacles. Ensure audits are completed on time and to a high standard of quality. Essential Skills & Abilities: Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to present complex research and compliance matters clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences. Experience in auditing research-related activities, compliance programs, and internal controls for sponsored projects and regulatory requirements. Expertise in evaluating compliance areas such as grants and contracts, human subjects, animal care, export controls, research data management, and financial stewardship. Knowledge of federal and institutional frameworks (e.g., Uniform Guidance, NIH/NSF policies, IRB/IACUC standards). Ability to build collaborative relationships with faculty, researchers, administrators, and external stakeholders. Understanding of research integrity principles, regulatory compliance requirements, and emerging risks in sponsored programs and academic research. Strong analytical skills to review complex data, identify compliance gaps, and develop actionable insights. Excellent organizational and project management abilities to lead multiple audits and deliver high-quality results within established timelines. Qualifications

Minimum Hiring Qualifications: Bachelor\'s degree and 5 years of sponsored research and information systems experience. Certification in a field related to internal auditing, information technology, and/or management advisory services (e.g., Certified Public Accountant, Certified Information Systems Auditor, and/or Certified Internal Auditor). Master\'s degree and 6 years of experience preferred. Details

Location: Atlanta Campus Open until filled Job Posting: 09/15/25, 7:11:37 PM Additional

Seniority level: Mid-Senior level Employment type: Full-time Job function: Information Technology Industries: Online Audio and Video Media

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