Senior Internal Auditor – SOX & Controls Lead

Essex Property Trust, Inc.; Irvine (CA); Hybrid; USD 107,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

401k employer match

Paid parental leave

Annual bonus program

Housing discount

Job summary

Essex Property Trust, Inc. is seeking an experienced Senior Internal Auditor III to strengthen our control environment across corporate and property operations. You will lead SOX testing, develop risk-based audit plans, and report findings with actionable recommendations to improve controls and efficiency.

You will collaborate with stakeholders, support external audits, and participate in audits that enhance governance. Hybrid work with a mix of office and field work in California.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related discipline.
• 4+ years of progressive internal or public audit experience.
• 3+ years of hands-on Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) experience.
• CPA and/or CIA strongly preferred.
• Experience in real estate, property management, or regulated environments is a plus.
• Experience with data analytics and audit technologies.

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, and independently execute audits across property, corporate, and operational functions using a risk-based approach.
• Lead SOX planning, walkthroughs, control testing, and documentation for compliance.
• Develop and update risk-based audit plans aligned with business objectives.
• Prepare clear internal audit reports with findings and actionable recommendations.
• Partner with stakeholders to identify practical solutions and drive process improvements.
• Coordinate with external auditors and support audits as needed.
• Assist with special projects, investigations, and Audit Committee requests.
• Stay current on industry trends and maintain professional certifications.

Skills

SOX testing

Audit planning

Risk assessment

Data analytics

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

Tools

Audit technologies

Job description

Essex Property Trust, Inc. is seeking an experienced Senior Internal Auditor III to strengthen our control environment across corporate and property operations. You will lead SOX testing, develop risk-based audit plans, and report findings with actionable recommendations to improve controls and efficiency.

You will collaborate with stakeholders, support external audits, and participate in audits that enhance governance. Hybrid work with a mix of office and field work in California.