Audit Associate

Wertz & Associates; Mitchell (SD); On-site; USD 65,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

401(k) match

Health insurance

Life insurance

HSA

FSA

Summer Fridays

CPA support

Training & CE

Advancement opportunities

Job summary

Wertz & Associates in Mitchell, SD is seeking an Audit Associate to join our growing Audit & Assurance team. You will gain hands-on experience across the audit lifecycle, working directly with clients while developing technical and leadership skills for long-term success in public accounting.

This role offers exposure to GAAP/GAAS, internal controls, and financial reporting, with mentorship from experienced professionals and clear opportunities for CPA progression and career growth within a

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, or related field required.
• Master's degree in Accounting or related discipline preferred.
• CPA eligibility or pursuing CPA certification strongly preferred.
• 0–3 years of public accounting, audit, or related accounting experience.
• Strong understanding of GAAP, GAAS, and audit methodologies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Analytical, organized, and detail-oriented.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning and performing audit engagements in accordance with professional standards.
• Perform audit testing, walkthroughs, substantive procedures, and internal control evaluations.
• Prepare detailed audit workpapers that meet firm and professional requirements.
• Analyze financial records and supporting documentation.
• Assist with the preparation of financial statements and related reports.
• Communicate with clients to gather information and resolve audit-related questions.
• Build professional relationships through responsive and professional service.
• Participate in client meetings and engagement discussions.
• Assist in identifying opportunities to improve client processes and controls.

Skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Written & verbal communication

Client service mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field

Master's degree in Accounting or related discipline

CPA eligible or pursuing CPA certification

Job description

Audit Associate

Audit & Assurance | CPA Track Opportunity | Professional Growth | Client Exposure

Compensation: $65,000-$80,000 Base + Annual Bonus Opportunity

Location: Mitchell, South Dakota

Our client, a highly respected and growing public accounting and advisory firm, is seeking an Audit Associate to join its expanding Audit & Assurance team in Mitchell, South Dakota.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious accounting professional looking to launch or accelerate a career in public accounting.

Rather than being limited to back-office work, you'll gain hands-on experience throughout the audit process, work directly with clients, collaborate with experienced professionals, and develop the technical and leadership skills necessary for long-term success in public accounting.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• $65,000-$80,000 base salary
• Annual performance bonus opportunity
• Direct mentorship from experienced audit professionals and firm leadership
• Exposure to a diverse portfolio of clients and industries
• Client-facing experience early in your career
• Strong support for CPA pursuit and professional development
• Hands-on involvement throughout the audit lifecycle
• Collaborative and relationship-driven culture
• Outstanding benefits package
• Long-term advancement opportunities within a growing firm

Exceptional candidates with prior public accounting internship experience, CPA progress, or strong academic credentials may be considered above the posted compensation range.

The Opportunity

As an Audit Associate, you'll work alongside experienced audit professionals to deliver high-quality assurance services while developing the technical foundation needed for long-term career growth.

You'll gain exposure to financial reporting, risk assessment, internal controls, compliance, and client advisory services while working directly with organizations across a variety of industries.

This role offers experience in:

• Audit & Assurance Services
• Financial Reporting
• Internal Controls & Risk Assessment
• Client Relationship Development
• GAAP & GAAS Application
• CPA Development & Career Growth

Key Responsibilities

Audit & Assurance Services

• Assist in planning and performing audit engagements in accordance with professional standards
• Perform audit testing, walkthroughs, substantive procedures, and internal control evaluations
• Prepare detailed audit workpapers that meet firm and professional requirements
• Analyze financial records and supporting documentation
• Assist with the preparation of financial statements and related reports

Client Service & Communication

• Communicate with clients to gather information and resolve audit-related questions
• Build strong professional relationships through responsive and professional service
• Participate in client meetings and engagement discussions
• Assist in identifying opportunities to improve client processes and controls

Financial Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze financial data to identify risks, trends, and potential reporting issues
• Assist in drafting audit reports, management letters, and engagement deliverables
• Support compliance with accounting and auditing standards
• Contribute to the overall quality and efficiency of audit engagements

Professional Development

• Continue developing expertise in GAAP, GAAS, and audit methodologies
• Participate in training programs and continuing education opportunities
• Stay current on accounting standards and regulatory developments
• Build the skills necessary for advancement into Senior Associate and future leadership roles

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, or related field required
• Master's degree in Accounting or related discipline preferred
• CPA eligible or actively pursuing CPA certification strongly preferred
• 0-3 years of public accounting, audit, or related accounting experience
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting concepts
• Knowledge of GAAP, GAAS, and audit methodologies preferred
• Governmental audit experience is a plus
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• Commitment to professionalism, learning, and continuous improvement

Who Thrives Here?

The ideal candidate:

• Enjoys solving problems and analyzing financial information
• Wants meaningful exposure to clients and business operations
• Is highly organized and detail-oriented
• Works well independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Is motivated to earn their CPA and continue developing professionally
• Values mentorship, learning, and career advancement
• Wants to build a long-term future within public accounting

Benefits

• Annual Bonus Program
• 401(k) with generous employer match
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage
• Company-paid life insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Summer Fridays Program
• CPA support and professional development resources
• Ongoing training and continuing education opportunities
• Clear advancement opportunities

About Our Client

Our client is a growth-oriented public accounting and advisory firm known for technical excellence, exceptional client service, and a strong commitment to employee development. The firm serves a diverse client base across a variety of industries, providing audit, accounting, tax, and advisory services that help organizations achieve long-term success.

As the firm continues to grow, they are seeking professionals who want to develop their technical expertise, build strong client relationships, work alongside talented professionals, and create rewarding long-term careers within public accounting.