Senior Audit Lead — Direct Impact & Mentorship

Cornerstone Search Partners I; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 99,000 - 121,000; Full time

Job summary

Cornerstone Search Partners I is seeking a Senior Audit Associate in Chicago. You will lead audits, mentor staff, and deliver high-quality work for a range of clients in diverse industries.

Ideal candidates have 3–4 years in public accounting, CPA-eligible, with strong leadership and communication skills; a hybrid in-office schedule is expected with frequent client sites. Daily vehicle access is preferred for site visits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting; CPA eligible (150 credit hours) preferred.
• 3–4 years of public accounting audit experience, with leadership exposure.
• Proven ability to lead audit engagements, coordinate with clients, and develop staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage audit engagements from planning through completion.
• Coordinate directly with clients to manage audit requests and timelines.
• Supervise, train, and mentor staff auditors throughout the engagement process.
• Review workpapers and ensure compliance with firm and professional standards.
• Develop an understanding of client operations, controls, and financial reporting.
• Communicate findings and recommendations to managers and partners.
• Build trusted relationships with clients through proactive communication.

Skills

Audit leadership

Client communication

Staff mentoring

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting

CPA eligible (150 credit hours)

Job description

Cornerstone Search Partners I is seeking a Senior Audit Associate in Chicago. You will lead audits, mentor staff, and deliver high-quality work for a range of clients in diverse industries.

Ideal candidates have 3–4 years in public accounting, CPA-eligible, with strong leadership and communication skills; a hybrid in-office schedule is expected with frequent client sites. Daily vehicle access is preferred for site visits.