Auditor

The Auditor position is with the Packers and Stockyards Division, Des Moines, Iowa. The Packers and Stockyards Division operates within the Livestock and Poultry Program of the Agricultural Marketing Service of the USDA.

The Packers and Stockyards Division (PSD) monitors the activities of the livestock and poultry industry by conducting regulatory compliance reviews and investigations to determine whether subject persons and firms are complying with the Packers and Stockyards Act and regulations. As an Auditor you will be responsible for completing a wide variety of investigative tasks, forensic analysis, direct surveillance, and related work in support of PSD's mission.

The duties described are for the full-performance level. At developmental grade levels, assignments will be of more limited scope, performed with less independence and limited complexity. The duties may include but are not limited to:
Examines financial and operating records; review previous audit reports, formal orders and stipulations, and annual and special reports submitted by subject persons or firms. Independently makes detailed and technical on-site investigations of persons and firms to determine whether their operations are being conducted in conformity with the Act and regulations. Investigates complaints alleging monetary damages and attempts to negotiate a settlement.

Provides advice and guidance on the financial audit methodology, monitors the technical accuracy, and reviews the analysis, concepts, and conclusions upon completion of the audit. Integrates the regional plans and activities with the overall regulatory reviews and investigative work of the office. Develops procedures for handling financial complaints received from livestock shippers and other members of the livestock, poultry, and meat marketing industries.

Provides technical direction to less experienced auditors in the regional office and State officials engaged in Federal-State cooperative enforcement activities. Works with Legal Specialists and the Office of General Counsel attorneys in conducting investigations, preparing investigative reports, compiling evidence, and preparing proposed complaints. Explains the basis and application of new and existing policies and regulations to producers and farm groups, persons and firms in the regulated industries, and to State officials.

Work will be a combination of office tasks and field-based assignments. The expected travel for this position is 25-50%. This position may also be eligible for flexible work arrangements as determined by agency policy.

The basic qualification for eligibility requires a degree accounting, auditing; or a degree including auditing courses in a related field such as business administration, finance, or public administration that included or was supplemented by 24 semester hours in accounting. The 24 hours may include up to 6 hours of credit in business law.