Principal Internal Auditor

The Principal Internal Auditor serves as a senior‑level individual contributor within the Internal Audit function and is responsible for leading and executing complex, risk‑based operational, financial, compliance, and strategic audits across a large, integrated healthcare system. This role functions as a subject matter resource and trusted advisor to leadership, providing independent and objective assurance over governance, risk management, operational effectiveness, and internal controls. Through the application of professional judgment, the Principal Internal Auditor assesses risk, identifies root causes, and communicates clear, actionable recommendations that strengthen the organization's control environment and decision‑making. The Principal Internal Auditor independently plans and executes complex engagements with executive and Board-level visibility, assists and advises other auditors, and supports Internal Audit leadership in achieving the department's goals and vision.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute complex operational, compliance, and financial audits across clinical and non-clinical functions within the healthcare system.
• Independently perform all phases of the audit lifecycle, including risk assessment, planning, fieldwork, testing, analysis, reporting, and follow-up activities in accordance with professional standards.
• Identify process inefficiencies, control gaps, operational risks, fraud risk indicators, and opportunities for improvement, and develop practical, risk-based recommendations aligned with organizational objectives.
• Prepare clear, concise, and well-supported audit reports and executive-level communications.
• Present audit results, recommendations, and risk implications to management and leadership audiences.

Required Qualifications

• B.S./B.A.
• 6 years of experience in internal audit, healthcare, risk advisory, compliance, finance, or a related internal controls discipline.
• Experience conducting operational audits within complex or highly regulated environments.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage audit engagements and exercise sound professional judgment.

Preferred Qualifications

• M.A./M.S.
• Advanced experience applying data analytics in audit or advisory engagements to enhance risk assessment, testing, and insight; familiarity with fraud risk assessment or investigative work is beneficial.
• Experience leading complex operational, financial, clinical, compliance, or fraud-related audits.
• Knowledge of healthcare operations, regulatory requirements, and governance structures.
• Experience working in large integrated healthcare systems, academic medical centers, or highly regulated organizations.
• Relevant professional certification (e.g., CIA, CPA, CISA, CFE, CHFP, CHIAP) strongly preferred; certification may be required within a defined timeframe following hire.