Internal Auditor – Contracting Operations

Job Purpose

Audit Planning and Execution

• Execute risk-based internal audits across contracting operations, including project sites and head office functions.
• Perform end-to-end audits covering bidding, estimation, project execution, closure, procurement, subcontractor management, cost monitoring, budgeting, and variation orders.
• Identify control gaps, inefficiencies, and financial or operational risks.

Project and Cost Control Audits

• Review project budgets against actual costs and investigate variances.
• Assess controls over material usage, wastage, labor cost allocation, and equipment utilization.
• Evaluate the integrity of project reporting and cost-to-complete estimates.

Procurement and Contract Management

• Audit procurement processes for compliance with policies and delegation of authority.
• Review vendor selection, tendering processes, and contract awards.
• Evaluate subcontractor agreements, billing, and performance monitoring.
• Identify risks involving overpricing, conflicts of interest, and non-competitive sourcing.

Compliance and Site Reviews

• Review adherence to approved policies and procedures, delegation of authority, and management memos.
• Confirm that exceptions have appropriate approvals, including CEO or Chairman approval where applicable.
• Conduct site visits to verify physical progress, inventory, material controls, and high-level compliance with policies and safety procedures.
• Identify operational inefficiencies and leakages at site level.

Reporting and Advisory

• Prepare concise audit reports highlighting key risks and actionable recommendations.
• Track implementation of audit recommendations and report status to the Head of Internal Audit.
• Escalate critical findings and control weaknesses in a timely manner.
• Support improvements to internal controls, operational efficiency, and audit programs for contracting risks.

Key Skills and Competencies

• Strong understanding of contracting or construction business processes.
• Practical knowledge of project costing, BOQs, and contract management.
• Risk-based audit approach with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and conduct site audits.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and report-writing skills.
• High level of integrity and professional skepticism.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, accounting, finance, or a related field.
• 5–8+ years of experience in internal audit, external audit with contracting exposure, commercial or cost control, or project finance within contracting companies.
• Professional certifications such as CPA, ACCA, CIA, or equivalent are preferred.
• Experience with Oracle, SAP, or similar ERP systems is advantageous.