Audit Associate

At Sweeney Conrad, our foundation of “people first” begins with our employees—because we know the success of our firm stems from the relationships within it. We consider our employees family and foster a positive work culture, encouraging a healthy balance between work and life; building a career over having a job; continuing education and skill development; and being actively involved in the communities where we live, work, and play.

Backed by private equity from people‑focused Alpine Investors, Ascend is building a dynamic platform for regional accounting firms that enables them to stay independent while accessing the resources of a Top 25 firm to help them grow. Ascend provides access to growth capital, robust talent acquisition and training, leading quality management resources, best‑of‑breed technology, AI tools, an offshore captive, shared back‑office services, a catalytic leadership system, and modernized equity incentives so that firms can surmount today’s industry challenges to reach their full potential.

Our audit team works exclusively with privately held businesses across a variety of industries, including real estate, construction, manufacturing, technology, professional services, and employee benefit plans.

As an audit associate, you’ll work alongside experienced professionals who are committed to helping you develop both technically and professionally. From your first year, you’ll have meaningful client interaction, gain exposure to a variety of engagements, and receive coaching designed to accelerate your career.

Success in this role requires a strong attention to detail while maintaining an understanding of the bigger picture. You are naturally curious, ask thoughtful questions, and seek to understand the “why” behind your work. You communicate professionally and effectively with clients and teammates, take ownership of your responsibilities, and consistently follow through on commitments. The audit associate welcomes feedback as an opportunity to learn and improve, continuously expands technical knowledge, and applies sound professional judgment.

You build trusted client relationships through responsiveness, professionalism, and reliability, and you embrace new technologies and innovative approaches that improve efficiency while delivering high‑quality work. This position is based in Kirkland, Washington.

• Participate in financial statement audits, reviews, and compilations for privately held companies
• Perform audit procedures in accordance with professional standards and firm methodology
• Prepare work papers that are accurate, organized, and support engagement conclusions
• Analyze financial information and identify unusual trends, risks, or inconsistencies
• Assist in documenting business processes and internal controls
• Work directly with client personnel to obtain information and resolve questions
• Utilize firm technology to improve audit quality and efficiency
• Collaborate with engagement teams to meet client deadlines while maintaining high-quality work
• Develop an understanding of GAAP, GAAS, and industry‑specific accounting issues
• Participate in internal training, coaching, and professional development opportunities
• Contribute to a positive team environment by supporting colleagues and sharing knowledge
• Perform other duties as assigned by the department managers

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting
• CPA eligible or actively pursuing CPA licensure
• Strong intellectual curiosity with a proactive commitment to continuous learning and professional growth
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and client needs
• A client‑first mindset with excellent interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated experience in managing multiple tasks and in organizing and prioritizing work assignments and ongoing duties
• Ability to communicate effectively and timely in writing and verbally with colleagues, clients, and other external partners
• Ability to work effectively and collaborate in a diverse team environment

Pay range: $78,250 – $80,000 per year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, and skill level.