Audit Associate (Dec 2026)

About KPMG

KPMG stands as a global leader in professional services, experiencing rapid growth as the fastest-growing Big Four accounting firm in the U.S., boasting over 75 offices and 40,000 employees nationwide. Their innovative approach provides Audit, Tax, and Advisory services to renowned organizations, empowering students to explore impactful opportunities in a dynamic and forward-thinking environment.

Your Role

KPMG is currently seeking an Audit Associate to join their Audit Services team.

Responsibilities:

• Work as part of a team to play an integral role in conducting financial statement audits and serve the capital markets by helping ensure the accuracy and reliability of client financial information while upholding the principles of objectivity and independence; contribute to the overall effectiveness of our client's operations while maintaining the highest standards of our professional integrity; develop an understanding of client-specific risks through review of financial results, relevant external information, current business trends, and client transactions
• Learn to prepare clear and well-structured audit documentation regarding our understanding of the client's processes and information technology (IT) systems, including the flow of transactions, identification of risk points, and controls that mitigate the risk points
• With appropriate guidance, execute and document testing of client controls (including IT, security, programming, and governance controls) and financial statement account balances using appropriate standards and terminology; identify potential misstatements and control deficiencies, escalating matters as appropriate
• Support the execution of a high-quality audit through the performance of assigned tasks and professional client and engagement team interactions; support the use of enabling technologies in the audit, including risk assessment, data extraction, statistical-based sampling procedures, and data analysis
• Identify process improvements and audit efficiencies as part of KPMGs continuous improvement culture; support project management activities by assessing and reporting status, tracking deliverables, and coordinating action items; build and maintain professional relationships commensurate with level and experience
• Support the use of Data and Analytics (D&A) in the audit, including data extraction and analysis; utilize a range of technologies and data analysis tools to execute substantive audit procedures, including artificial intelligence (AI), Excel, Alteryx, SQL, Python, and Power BI; assist in the preparation of the related documentation

Training & Development

As an Audit Associate at KPMG, one will learn to conduct financial statement audits, prepare audit documentation, and execute testing of client controls, gaining a deep understanding of client-specific risks and controls. They will receive training through hands-on experience with risk assessment, data extraction, data analysis tools such as AI, Excel, Alteryx, SQL, Python, and Power BI, and participate in continuous improvement and project management activities.

Salary & Benefits

The salary for this position within California ranges from $74000 - $85000. 

If you join full-time in the company, you'll have these benefits:

• Variety of medical and dental plans
• Vision coverage
• Disability and life insurance
• 401(k) plans
• Personal well-being benefits for mental health support
• Personal Time Off per fiscal year based on job classification and years of service
• Firmwide breaks holiday with no requirement to use Personal Time Off
• Financial Support and Rewards
• Health and Insurance

Career Progression

KPMG fosters a supportive career development culture, offering opportunities for diverse career paths and continuous learning. Many individuals find long and fulfilling careers within the company, while others leverage their skills and experiences to excel elsewhere, enriching their résumés and maintaining connections within a powerful network, ensuring their impact endures beyond their tenure.

Work-Life Balance

At KPMG, prioritizing life outside of work is paramount, offering a comprehensive compensation package and a vibrant social atmosphere. With various sports teams, social events, and community involvement opportunities, students can immerse themselves in a dynamic environment while enjoying flexible working arrangements and dedicated support for their overall well-being, ensuring a fulfilling experience both personally and professionally.

Culture & Vibe

For over 35 years, KPMG has nurtured a distinctive culture centered on supporting individuals and their ambitions, intertwining a belief that a good culture fuels good business. This environment champions inclusivity, change, and individual expression, illuminating their services with a unique strategy. Joining KPMG promises a lifestyle of success, consistency, and professional growth within a supportive community, empowering graduates to thrive authentically and reach new heights.

About You

Qualifications:

• Must be pursuing and have obtained by the start date or have completed the following degrees/majors in the past 12 months: Bachelor of Accountancy, Master of Accountancy, or equivalent program from an accredited college or university
• Must be pursuing the state-specific education requirements to be a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the principal place of business (the state in which the office is located) for this position, with completion of required academic credits before the start date for this position
• Preferred GPA of 3.0 or above
• Coursework or minor in information systems, software engineering, computer science, or data and analytics preferred; experience with data analysis tools such as Alteryx or Power BI preferred
• Demonstrated quality service mindset and foundational knowledge of technical accounting and financial reporting standards; knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles
• Strong technical aptitude, critical thinking, and research skills; ability to navigate various computer applications, including MS Office (emphasis on Excel); aptitude to quickly learn KPMG Audit tools and applications used by our clients
• Strong communication, time management, and relationship-building skills; able to employ sound professional judgment and professional skepticism; flexible and adaptable team player; leadership experience; resourceful in delivering high-quality work; ability to demonstrate project management skills is a plus
• Must reside within a reasonably commutable distance to the office for this position and be able to travel to reasonably commutable work locations using your own means of transportation, such as a personal vehicle or public transportation
• Audit professionals are expected to work in person at a KPMG office or client site on an average of three days per week; some client site locations may require travel and overnight/extended stay (varies by office)
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for employment-based visa sponsorship now or in the future. KPMG LLP will not sponsor applicants for U.S. work visa status for this opportunity (no sponsorship is available for H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, F-1, J-1, OPT, CPT, or any other employment-based visa).

Sources

The following sources were used in researching this page:

• kpmguscareers.com
• kpmguscareers.com/why-kpmg/#benefits
• kpmg.com/ua/en/work-at-kpmg/clear-career-path
• https://www.youtube.com/@KPMGUSA