Principal Auditor

i-jobs; Macclesfield; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in the UK is seeking an Audit Officer for Quality Assurance in safeguarding. The role includes coordinating audits, developing an annual audit programme, and providing training. Applicants should have a professional social work qualification and minimum 5 years of experience in safeguarding multi-agency work. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential. The position offers a competitive hourly rate and involves working closely with Children’s Services and Social Care.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience of safeguarding multi-agency work.
• Ability to deliver training, especially inter-agency sessions.
• Flexible approach to travel and working across the borough.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate borough-wide audits of Children’s Services and Social Care.
• Analyse audit findings using established tools, and produce written reports.
• Represent the Safeguarding Unit at relevant meetings.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Report-writing skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

IT proficiency, particularly in Microsoft Excel

Education

Professional social work qualification (CQSW/CSS/DipSW or equivalent)

Job description

Job Title

Audit Officer – Quality Assurance (Safeguarding)

Reference

JAJB4273

Key Information

Grade 11, located at Dalton House, Cheshire East Council. Hours: 37 per week. Salary: £36.14 per hour. Start: ASAP. DSBA required.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate borough‑wide audits of Children’s Services and Social Care.
• Develop and maintain an annual audit programme in line with the Children's Directorate.
• Provide advice, training and assistance to ensure audits are conducted with the required frequency and quality.
• Analyse audit findings using established tools, and produce written reports.
• Act as a key member of the Auditor Steering Group.
• Keep up to date with policy and practice developments in child protection and related services.
• Contribute to the development and revision of safeguarding policies and procedures.
• Assist with the interpretation of management information.
• Support the production of the Children’s Services Plan and Business Plan.
• Represent the Safeguarding Unit at relevant meetings and undertake any additional duties assigned by senior managers.
• Uphold Council’s Equal Opportunities Policy and Community Strategy.
• Maintain health and safety standards in all audit activities.

Qualifications & Experience

• Essential: Professional social work qualification (CQSW/CSS/DipSW or equivalent). Minimum 5 years’ experience of safeguarding multi‑agency work.
• Desired: Extensive knowledge of current social work policy and practice; strong analytical, report‑writing and data‑analysis skills.
• Ability to deliver training, especially inter‑agency sessions.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proficiency in IT, particularly Microsoft Excel.
• Flexible approach to travel and working across the borough.

Equal Opportunities Statement

Cheshire East Council is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified and motivated individuals, irrespective of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion or belief, or disability.

Culture & Values

• Shared purpose – work together for a brighter future.
• Supported and well‑led – leaders who empower and guide.
• Fair treatment – we value and respect all staff.
• Responsibility – deliver on promises with integrity.
• Service – listen, deliver quality, and enable others.
• Teamwork – respectful, inclusive, collaborative.