Foreign Service Auditor (Performance)

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is part of the U.S. Foreign Service, which is responsible for representing the United States abroad and conducting diplomatic missions. The Foreign Service operates globally, with a mission to promote peace, support prosperity, and protect American interests. It employs thousands of individuals across various roles and is committed to maintaining high standards of professionalism and integrity in its operations.

Job Overview:
As a Foreign Service Auditor (Performance), the individual will be tasked with conducting performance audits that adhere to Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS) and the specific policies and procedures set forth by the Office of Inspector General (OIG). The role requires a comprehensive understanding of both qualitative and quantitative research methods to evaluate the effectiveness of programs and operations. The auditor will be expected to prepare proposals for audits, assess program data, and communicate findings to various stakeholders, including agency representatives and senior leaders. The position demands a proactive approach to identifying relevant laws and regulations that impact audit processes and requires the ability to work collaboratively with team members to ensure that audit findings are well-supported and actionable. The auditor will also participate in interviews with key personnel to gather information and present findings in a clear and concise manner, both orally and in writing.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Foreign Service Auditor (Performance) include conducting high-quality performance audits in compliance with GAGAS, preparing audit proposals, reviewing and evaluating various reports and program data, and applying relevant laws and regulations. The auditor will communicate with agency representatives to gather information, brief team leaders on audit progress, and maintain comprehensive audit working papers. Additionally, the auditor will work closely with team members to ensure that evidence collected is sufficient to support audit findings and recommendations. The role also involves assisting senior staff in all phases of the audit process, from planning to reporting, and participating in interviews with agency officials to collect necessary information for audit conclusions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in auditing or a related field such as business administration, finance, public administration, or accounting. Alternatively, a combination of education and experience totaling at least four years in performance auditing is acceptable. Applicants should also have a certificate as a Certified Internal Auditor or a Certified Public Accountant, or have completed substantial coursework in auditing or accounting. Individuals with degrees in international affairs, public policy, or related fields are strongly encouraged to apply. Additionally, candidates must meet specific experience requirements at various grade levels, demonstrating their ability to conduct audits and analyze program data effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree in auditing or a related field. Candidates may also qualify through a combination of education and experience, which must include relevant coursework in auditing or accounting. Transcripts are required to verify educational qualifications, and foreign degrees must be evaluated for equivalency to U.S. education standards.

Experience:
The level of experience required varies by grade level. For FS-06 (equivalent to GS-09), candidates must have one year of specialized experience at the FS-07/GS-07 level or equivalent. For FS-05 (equivalent to GS-11), one year of specialized experience at the FS-06/GS-09 level is required. For FS-04 (equivalent to GS-12), candidates must have one year of specialized experience at the FS-05/GS-11 level. Experience can include both paid and unpaid work, including volunteer positions that provide relevant skills and knowledge for the auditing role.

Languages:
While the job posting does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication and reporting. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in regions where the auditor may be assigned, enhancing the ability to interact with local stakeholders and understand regional contexts.

Additional Notes:
This position requires U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a Top security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-clearance" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security clearance. Candidates must also be willing to accept worldwide assignments and travel frequently on short notice. The role is part of a limited appointment as a career candidate for a trial period not exceeding five years, during which performance will be evaluated for tenure consideration. The position is subject to random drug testing, and applicants must comply with Selective Service registration requirements. The job is filled through an alternative hiring process and is not part of the competitive civil service.