Consulting Associate - Public Sector Audit

Whitley Penn; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental and Vision Insurance

PTO

Maternity and Parental Leave

401(k) with Profit Sharing

Discretionary Bonus Program

Becker CPA Review Course reimbursement

Health & Wellness Program

Pet Insurance

Job summary

Whitley Penn, one of the nation’s leading audit, tax, and advisory firms, is seeking a Consulting Associate for the Public Sector Audit team in Houston. The role focuses on government and not-for-profit entities, including schools and higher education, with hands-on accounting support, compliance, and advisory services.

The Consulting Associate will contribute to financial reporting improvements, internal controls documentation, and audit readiness while maintaining strong client relationships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting (Master’s preferred).
• CPA certification or current CPA eligibility is expected or in progress.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities; detail-oriented.

Responsibilities

• Prepare bank reconciliations and assist with client accounting support.
• Conduct cash counts and asset reconciliations.
• Perform agreed-upon procedures and assist with audits for public sector entities.
• Support HB 3 school district efficiency audits and grant compliance testing.
• Document processes, test controls, and provide practical recommendations.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Excel proficiency

Multi-project management

Integrity

Education

Bachelor's in Accounting

Master's degree preferred

CPA certification or eligibility

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Accounting software

Job description

Whitley Penn, one of the nation’s leading audit, tax, and advisory firms, is looking for a Consulting Associate to join our Public Sector (Government/Not-for-Profit) Audit team! The Consulting Associate will support Whitley Penn’s Public Sector clients by providing high-quality audit support, consulting, accounting, compliance, and advisory services to governmental, school district, higher education, and nonprofit organizations. This role is ideal for individuals who are detail-oriented, analytical, and committed to helping public sector entities strengthen financial reporting, improve internal controls, prepare for audits, maintain compliance with federal and state requirements, and address operational or investigative needs with practical, client-focused solutions.

Whitley Penn has become one of the fastest growing public accounting firms by providing exceptional, personalized service that reaches far beyond traditional accounting. In addition to Audit and Tax solutions, we offer a wide range of Advisory and Consulting services. We work in collaborative teams with an emphasis on an open-door policy, entrepreneurial thinking, and a well-built culture. At Whitley Penn, we learn, innovate, and achieve by sharing knowledge, embracing new ideas, and working together. We’re looking for professionals who think like owners and want to be part of shaping a high-growth firm.

Position Details

• Title: Consulting Associate – Public Sector
• Classification: Full-time; Exempt
• Department: Audit – Public Sector
• Location: Houston
• Office Expectations/Hours: Fully in-office/on client site position; general work schedule is Monday – Friday, 8 hours/day between 8am to 5pm with overtime, as needed.

What You Will Do

• Prepare bank reconciliations, monitor accounts payable and p-card activity, and assist with accounting support for client organizations.
• Prepare capital asset reconciliations
• Conduct cash counts and perform other agreed-upon procedures as requested by clients.
• Perform agreed-upon procedures for construction manager-at-risk engagements, including testing compliance with guaranteed maximum price and contract provisions.
• Assist with Chapter 395 impact fee audits, including review of supporting documentation, compliance requirements, calculations, and related schedules.
• Support school district efficiency audits under HB 3, 86th Legislature.
• Assist with federal and state compliance testing, including Single Audit requirements, grant compliance, and related documentation.
• Perform internal control reviews, document key processes, evaluate control design and execution, and identify practical recommendations for improvement.
• Review procurement processes for compliance with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and grant requirements.
• Participate in internal audit and risk advisory engagements, including risk assessments, control testing, and business process improvement projects.
• Contribute to forensic accounting services, including fraud investigations, transaction testing, data analysis, and preparation of clear investigative support documentation.
• Assist clients with audit preparation, including preparation of schedules, reconciliations, supporting documentation, request-list tracking, and readiness for annual financial statement audits.
• Support preparation of Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports, annual financial reports, regulatory reports, and related client deliverables as needed.
• Prepare clear and accurate workpapers, reports, and client deliverables in accordance with professional standards and firm methodology.
• Maintain strong client relationships through effective communication, timely follow-up, and high-quality service delivery.
• Stay current on relevant governmental accounting standards, compliance requirements, grant requirements, and public sector industry best practices.

What You Need To Get Here

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting; Master’s degree preferred
• CPA certification or CPA eligibility with certification in progress
• 2+ years of experience in accounting, auditing, or consulting (internship experience considered).
• Familiarity with governmental accounting and compliance standards preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other accounting software.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• High level of integrity and commitment to quality.

Core Competency Requirements

• Attention to Detail – Ensures accuracy and thoroughness in all work.
• Client Service Orientation – Demonstrates commitment to delivering exceptional client experiences.
• Adaptability – Responds effectively to changing priorities and environments.
• Critical Thinking – Applies logical reasoning and problem-solving skills to complex issues.
• Team Collaboration – Works cooperatively with colleagues to achieve shared goals.

Why Whitley Penn

Benefits

Our total rewards are incredibly competitive. We work hard and recharge so that we can be our best selves for our clients. Explore some of our benefits below:

• Firm Paid Medical Insurance (Free Employee Only Coverage on 2 of 3 plans)
• Voluntary Dental and Vision Insurance
• 17 Annual Firm holidays, with extended breaks around July 4th and year end
• 20 days PTO
• Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
• 401(k) with Profit Sharing
• Discretionary Bonus Program
• Firm Paid Becker CPA Review Course & Reimbursement for Exam Fees
• Health & Wellness Program
• Pet Insurance

Whitley Penn is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to age, race, creed, gender, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Whitley Penn is a participant in E-Verify please follow the link to review disclosure notifications: https://www.dropbox.com/s/olsr5xgsgxsntu3/E-Verify%20Notices.pdf?dl=0. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.