Research Auditor

Research Auditor at Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is seeking to hire a full-time staff member to fill a Research Auditor position (level will depend on experience). This position 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.

This position will independently plan, coordinate and conduct research audits, consulting or other special engagements under the director of the supervisor. The position will perform engagement fieldwork, document test work, develop work papers in accordance with Global Internal Audit Standards and identify and communicate engagement results through a formal report process. Internal department projects or responsibilities may also be assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree and five years of sponsored research administration, management, and/or compliance experience
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing to all levels of management
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build collaborative relationships and work effectively with faculty, researchers, administrators, and external stakeholders
• In-depth knowledge of federal and institutional frameworks (e.g., Uniform Guidance, NIH/NSF policies, IRB/IACUC standards)
• Working knowledge of accounting principles and auditing standards including Global Internal Auditing Standards
• Experience in research related activities, compliance programs, and internal controls related to sponsored programs 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
• Solid understanding of emerging risks in sponsored programs and academic research, research integrity principles, and regulatory compliance requirements
• Ability to organize and document engagement work papers in accordance with Global Internal Auditing Standards
• Strong writing skills and ability to adapt standard styles and formats for written audit deliverables (e.g., test narratives, audit issues and reports)
• Working knowledge of data mining and data analytic tools and methodologies
• Ability to manage several projects simultaneously and to effectively manage workload to meet deadlines
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
• Maintain integrity, objectivity, independence and confidentiality
• Ability to perform as a team member, supporting and assisting supervisor and other team members and seeking opportunities to provide support
• Self-motivated and ability to perform assigned tasks and research and meet goals and objectives independently
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

• Experience as a lead auditor
• Experience in accounting, auditing, business process analysis, or IT
• Experience in higher education
• CPA (certified public accountant), CIA (certified internal auditor), CRA (certified research administrator), or eligibility and willingness to pursue certification to be attained within 18 months of hire
• Master degree in fields related to, research, business, or IT
• Working knowledge of automated audit software

• Salary Range: $58,000-$85,000 commensurate with experience, education, and relevant certification
• Hours per Week: 40
• FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt
• Restricted Position: No
• ORP Eligible: No
• Flexible Work Arrangement: Hybrid

Note:

This description reflects the requirements and responsibilities at the time of posting and is not an offer of employment or contract.