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Senior Internal Controls Analyst (A-123 Financial & Process Audit) 2026P-0207

Full-Time
Hybrid, Washington, DC
Posted 4 days ago

Ascension LLC is seeking a Senior Internal Controls Analyst (Financial & Process Audit) to lead and execute internal controls testing in support of federal financial reporting compliance under OMB Circular A-123 Appendix A.

This role is critical to ensuring that the client achieves and maintains an unqualified financial audit opinion by validating the design and operating effectiveness of key financial and IT controls. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in federal financial processes, audit methodologies, and risk-based internal control testing, and can independently lead walkthroughs, testing cycles, and stakeholder engagements.

This position is best suited for professionals with strong backgrounds in federal audit, accounting, or internal controls, who thrive in structured yet evolving environments and can translate regulatory requirements into actionable testing and reporting outcomes.


Position Summary

The Senior Internal Controls Analyst will support end-to-end A-123 internal controls testing, including Test of Design (TOD) and Test of Operating Effectiveness (TOE), across key business processes and IT systems.

This role requires a detail-oriented, analytical, and self-driven professional capable of:

  • Interpreting federal financial regulations and internal control frameworks
  • Conducting walkthroughs and documenting processes
  • Executing risk-based testing methodologies
  • Identifying control deficiencies and recommending corrective actions

The ideal candidate demonstrates the ability to work independently, anticipate risks, and communicate effectively with stakeholders, including finance teams, IT personnel, and senior leadership.

The role directly supports testing across business cycles such as:

  • Purchase Cards
  • Payroll
  • Vendor Accruals
  • Prepaid Expenses
  • Open Obligations
  • IT Systems (GSS, PMS)

Day-to-Day Activities

  • Conduct process walkthroughs to document financial and IT control environments
  • Review SOPs, cycle memos, and policies to identify key controls
  • Develop and execute A-123 testing plans (TOD/TOE)
  • Perform control testing using:
    • Inquiry
    • Observation
    • Inspection
    • Reperformance
    • Data analytics techniques
  • Evaluate control effectiveness and document results
  • Identify control deficiencies and develop corrective action recommendations
  • Prepare A-123 assessment reports for quarterly submissions
  • Support risk assessments and control identification activities
  • Maintain detailed workpapers and audit documentation
  • Collaborate with COR, PM, and stakeholders on testing progress
  • Provide biweekly status updates and reporting
  • Support development of training materials for internal controls testing
  • Assist in improving internal control frameworks and documentation

Job Features

Job CategoryFinance and Accounting
Minimum RequirementsBachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Management, or related field
Required Skills10+ years of experience in federal financial management, auditing, or internal controls | Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams) | Strong analytical, writing, and documentation skills
Technical SkillsDemonstrated experience with: OMB Circular A-123 compliance Federal financial reporting and audit readiness Internal control testing (TOD/TOE) Strong knowledge of: FMFIA, ATDA, GAO Green Book Federal accounting standards and financial systems Experience conducting: Process walkthroughs Risk assessments Control documentation and testing Preferred Certifications: Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) Certified Internal Control Auditor (CICA) CPA, CIA, or CISA (highly desirable)
Desired SkillsExperience with federal financial systems such as: Oracle Federal Financials, Oracle Business Intelligence (OBI), Familiarity with data analytics tools for audit testing, Experience supporting financial statement audits, Knowledge of IT General Controls (ITGCs), Ability to lead testing cycles and mentor junior staff, Strong stakeholder engagement and briefing experience
Sustainability RequirementsMust be eligible to obtain and maintain a Public Trust (Moderate Risk) | Must comply with PIV (Personal Identity Verification) requirements | U.S. Citizenship or authorized eligibility required

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