WHAT DOES AN INTERNAL AUDIT INTERN DO?
Published: Oct 1, 2025 - The Internal Audit Intern assists in performing internal audits to evaluate the company's compliance with financial, operational, and regulatory policies. This position involves supporting audit testing, internal control assessments, and Sarbanes-Oxley 404 documentation across various functional areas. The intern also contributes to plant audits, inventory observations, and ensures audit work aligns with departmental standards and procedures.

A Review of Professional Skills and Functions for Internal Audit Intern
1. Internal Audit Intern Tasks
- Audit Execution: Execute audit procedures, observations, and special projects as assigned by the Internal Audit Manager.
- Documentation: Thoroughly document audit procedures and results.
- Communication: Effectively communicate the results of audits and areas of concern to the Internal Audit Manager.
- Process Evaluation: Evaluate processes and procedures and continually work.
- Efficiency Improvement: Identify opportunities for increased effectiveness, efficiency, accuracy, and compliance with company procedures.
- Customer Service: Provide excellent customer service to internal employees as well as outside sources.
- Confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality of company information.
- Policy Compliance: Manage reserves the right to change and/or add to these duties.
2. Internal Audit Intern Functions
- Collaboration: Work alongside West’s industry experts.
- Project Management: Manage and present individual and/or group projects.
- Engagement: Actively participate in department meetings and conference calls.
- Customer Interaction: Interact with internal and external customers.
- Quality Compliance: Adhere to quality and other required standards.
- Teamwork: Collaborate with fellow West interns across multiple West locations.
- Technical Learning: Learn and master West applications and technology.
- Networking: Participate in Lunch n’ Learns, networking and philanthropic events.
- Exposure: Participate in Lab and/or Plant tours.
3. Internal Audit Intern Overview
- Control Testing: Perform control testwork as part of the Model Audit Rule Program (MAR).
- Test Execution: Execute test plans of key controls through inquiry, observation, examination, and/or re-performance under the supervision of the MAR team.
- Documentation: Obtain the appropriate control documentation and document test results according to Internal Audit testing standards.
- Audit Assistance: Perform Direct Assistance work for NLG’s financial auditors (PwC).
- Audit Program Execution: Responsible for executing an audit program.
- Data Analysis: Obtain the data from the applicable administrative and financial system and perform procedures.
- Data Validation: Ensure the completeness and accuracy of the data as noted in the audit program.
- Risk Analysis: Assist the Internal Audit Department in performing risk and control analysis on various business processes.
- Process Support: Responsible for setting up meetings with departments, updating the documentation, and helping.
- Risk Mapping: Analyze risk and risk conclusions, mapping risks to the appropriate controls, and reviewing controls to ensure that they are meeting applicable standards.
- Process Updating: Assist the Internal Audit Department in updating business processes on a rotating basis.
- Data Analytics: Utilize data analytics tools (Alteryx) to perform monitoring over specific accounts and activities.
- Outlier Investigation: Document the process, any outliers, and investigate the results of those outliers.
- Findings Presentation: Present findings to the Internal Audit Department and business areas during staff meetings and other meetings.
4. Internal Audit Intern General Responsibilities
- Fieldwork: Conduct audit fieldwork using appropriate auditing methods.
- Reporting: Provide verbal and written reports to the operations team that will identify and monitor business opportunities.
- Business Understanding: Develop an understanding of Lithia’s operating structure and accounting system.
- Knowledge Development: Remain current and increase knowledge in the areas of auditing, accounting, business, and industry trends.
- Teamwork: Work effectively both independently and collaboratively as part of the Internal Audit team.
- Performance: Meet and exceed individual objectives as defined by the supervisor.
- Time Management: Adhere to schedules and deadlines.
- Prioritization: Set priorities and perform a variety of complex and broad work assignments.
- Multitasking: Responsible for multitasking in a fast-paced work environment.
5. Internal Audit Intern Duties
- SOX Compliance: Work closely with business stakeholders and be responsible for performing various Sarbanes-Oxley 404 (SOX) activities.
- Walkthrough Support: Participate in walkthrough meetings with control owners and assist with drafting and/or updating business process narratives.
- Documentation: Update risk and control documentation within IA’s audit management software, AuditBoard.
- Control Testing: Test internal controls in accordance with DV’s SOX methodology.
- Reporting: Prepare communications summarizing testing results and significant findings.
- Process Improvement: Contribute to business process improvement recommendations and action plan suggestions.
- Efficiency Remediation: Drive operational efficiency, as well as remediate control deficiencies.
- Review: Conduct preliminary reviews of management’s Section 302 sub-certification responses.
- Data Analytics: Assist IA’s efforts to develop and implement data analytics for continuous monitoring.
- Project Support: Assist with ad hoc projects and departmental initiatives.
6. Internal Audit Intern Details
- Practical Learning: Build on classroom learning through paid work directly related to the field.
- SOX Compliance: Support the Company’s SOX 404 compliance assessment and testing activities.
- Audit Planning: Assist in forming and documenting Audit Test plans, data analytics, uploading data, and preparing document request lists.
- Audit Execution: Assist in other aspects of completing the audit plan and track/report the status of audit projects.
- Template Management: Prepare and update Audit Test Templates and Work-paper Folders.
- Presentation Support: Assist with the preparation of presentations for the Management and Audit Committee.
- Database Organization: Assist in updating and organizing the IA databases.
- Data Analytics: Assist in developing Audit Test Steps using Data Analytics scripts.
- Record Keeping: Assist in record keeping and filing of IA work papers and Audit material.
- Documentation Filing: Scan and file audit documentation in the IA shared drive.
- Logistics Support: Assist with logistics and planning for audit trips and meetings.
7. Internal Audit Intern Responsibilities
- Audit Planning: Work jointly with team members in planning and performing assigned audit projects within Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND).
- Compliance Auditing: Assist with performing compliance, operational, financial, and basic information systems audits.
- Control Evaluation: Ensure internal controls are operating efficiently and confirm operations comply with federal, state, and contractual requirements.
- Testing: Perform audit procedures/testing.
- Risk Assessment: Assist in risk assessments.
- Project Support: Provide support and input for special projects.
- Data Analysis: Analyze and retrieve data appropriate for requested projects.
- Walkthroughs: Participate in meetings with process owners throughout the audit process to perform walkthroughs and information gathering.
- Professionalism: Demonstrate professional workplace behaviors, be punctual, and present an appropriate appearance.
- Ethical Conduct: Respect company policies and demonstrate ethical conduct.
8. Internal Audit Intern Accountabilities
- Audit Execution: Support with performing operational, compliance, and other audit activities within specified time periods.
- Documentation: Clearly document procedures performed and the results, including control deficiencies to departmental standards.
- File Management: Create and maintain audit files.
- Evaluation: Evaluate audit results to determine the quality and effectiveness of internal operating policies, internal controls, regulatory requirements, administrative procedures, and reporting practices.
- Control Improvement: Identify gaps in internal controls and provide recommendations for improvements.
- Database Utilization: Use Internal Audit databases for the execution of audit work and to assist with the preparation of audit reports.
- Research: Perform research and prepare pre-audit files and background materials on auditees.
- Engagement Management: Ensure focused, efficient, and effective engagement execution.
9. Internal Audit Intern Responsibilities and Key Tasks
- Risk Assessment: Assist in identifying and evaluating the organization’s audit risk areas.
- Audit Planning: Assist in the development of the internal audit scope.
- Testing: Perform detailed testing of audit procedures, including identifying and defining issues, reviewing and analyzing evidence, and documenting client processes and procedures.
- Audit Techniques: Conduct interviews, review documents, develop and administer surveys, compose summary memos, and prepare working papers.
- Communication: Communicate or assist in communicating the results of audit and consulting projects.
- Relationship Building: Develop and maintain productive team-oriented client and staff relationships through individual contacts and group meetings.
- Professional Development: Pursue professional development opportunities, including external and internal training and professional association memberships, and share information gained with co-workers.
- Task Execution: Perform related work as assigned by audit management.
- Technical Knowledge: Understand the technical aspects of accounting and financial reporting.
- Multitasking: Perform multiple projects and work with varying team members.
- Process Improvement: Provide recommendations to improve operations and processes.
- Compliance: Achieve compliance with quality and processes standards (SOX, PCAOB, etc.).
10. Internal Audit Intern Roles and Details
- SOX Compliance: Support SOX (Sarbanes-Oxley) requirements for the Company.
- SOX Testing: Assist in the completion of annual SOX testing of CONMED’s controls over financial reporting that support the Company’s quarterly and annual filings.
- Documentation Management: Collaborate with business process owners to monitor changes in the business, processes, and systems to ensure timely updating of control documentation.
- Control Evaluation: Identify potential internal control weaknesses (if applicable).
- Audit Execution: Assist in the execution of the internal audit plan.
- Audit Planning: Plan audit logistics and test work.
- Evidence Testing: Obtain and test sufficient evidence.
- Issue Communication: Identify potential control weaknesses and communicate them to the auditee and IA management.
- Special Projects: Assist with special projects and/or analysis of potential value-added opportunities.
- Process Understanding: Understand business processes and personnel involved.
- Cost-Benefit Analysis: Analyze cost-benefit opportunities.
- Collaboration: Collaborate with various levels of management across the organization to develop value-added proposals to support business growth.
11. Internal Audit Intern Roles and Responsibilities
- Audit Strategy: Assist with the execution of the overall audit strategy.
- SOX Support: Provide support to the SOX team.
- Operational Auditing: Assist the operational audit team in completing various operational audit activities.
- Data Analysis: Analyze data to identify trends and anomalies.
- Management Support: Work with Internal Audit management.
- Presentation Development: Develop presentations for senior management and the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
- Confidentiality: Handle sensitive and confidential information with honesty and integrity.
- Special Projects: Responsible for participating in special projects.
12. Internal Audit Intern Responsibilities and Key Tasks
- SOX Testing: Assist with Sarbanes-Oxley compliance testing.
- Operational Auditing: Support seniors and staff in operational audits.
- Risk Analysis: Responsible for risk identification, root cause, and business impact analysis.
- Analytical Insights: Deliver analytical insights to better support audit observations.
- Reporting: Prepare clear and concise presentations and written audit reports.
- Collaboration: Collaborate and build partnerships with all levels of management.
- Process Optimization: Assist with process optimization for more effective and efficient business processes.
- Problem-Solving: Propose innovative solutions to complex problems in accounting, compliance, and project management.
13. Internal Audit Intern Additional Details
- Data Reconciliation: Update/reconcile relevant information in the Audit Tool.
- Reporting: Properly reflect data in the reports.
- Dashboard Design: Design and refresh IA-relevant dashboard metrics.
- Project Tracking: Maintain and keep track of staff assigned to projects.
- Training Organization: Organize and design IA training.
- Milestone Tracking: Keep track of relevant project milestones.
- Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements.
- Audit Participation: Participate in audit projects.
14. Internal Audit Intern Roles
- Audit Procedures: Help perform business process, information technology, compliance audit, and consulting procedures, consisting of interviewing people.
- Control Testing: Help perform observing procedures, examining documentation, documenting business processes/data flows, and testing/validating controls.
- Data Analysis: Help perform tasks utilizing computer programs to analyze data.
- Application: Apply facts obtained from audit procedures.
- Control Evaluation: Identify control weaknesses and deviations from standards.
- Documentation: Organize, document, and maintain the results of audit work performed in accordance with the Institute of Internal Auditors’ International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing.
- Communication: Effectively communicate the audit results and opportunities identified to Internal Audit leadership through verbal and written communication.
- Policy Adherence: Adhere to department policies, procedures, and expectations.
15. Internal Audit Intern Job Description
- Audit Execution: Assist in the execution of internal audits of the Company's compliance, operational, and financial policies, procedures, and processes.
- Information Integrity: Ensure reliability and integrity of information, proper recording of transactions, safeguarding of assets, and compliance with policies and procedures.
- Operational Efficiency: Achieve operational goals and objectives, and ensure effective and efficient use of resources.
- Audit Testing: Assist in the execution of compliance, operational, and field audit testing.
- Control Testing: Perform walkthroughs, internal control operating effectiveness testing, and substantive procedures.
- SOX Support: Support the Company's Sarbanes-Oxley 404 Program.
- Documentation: Assist in documenting work performed.
- Functional Support: Support all functional areas of Internal Audit, including assisting in executing operational audits, plant audits, and regular inventory observations.
- Policy Compliance: Execute work under the direction of internal auditor co-workers and in compliance with department and company policies.
16. Internal Audit Intern Role Purpose
- SOX Testing: Support the execution of Sarbanes-Oxley testing on both the business process and IT sides.
- Data Analytics: Assist in data analytics testing areas, including compiling qualitative and quantitative data and interpreting results.
- Process Review: Review audit processes (e.g., process maps, narratives).
- Documentation: Ensure documentation is current and identify any gaps in test procedures.
- Administrative Support: Assist with general business responsibilities, duties, and administrative tasks.
- Audit Support: Assist auditors and senior auditors in planning and executing financial and operational audits and Sarbanes-Oxley assessments.
- Multitasking: Demonstrate strong initiative, organization, and team interaction skills to successfully handle multiple assignments concurrently and within department timelines.
- Business Interaction: Interact with business process owners to understand business processes, risks, and priorities, and to communicate audit progress and findings.
- Analytical Skills: Apply critical judgment, strong analytical skills, and sound, independent decision-making.
- Communication: Display strong verbal and written communication skills.
17. Internal Audit Intern Roles and Details
- Financial Fundamentals: Learn the fundamentals of financial services, auditing, and risk analysis in project settings.
- Risk Management: Gain insight into risk management through a variety of audit projects.
- Audit Procedures: Follow audit procedures and document findings for operations and compliance audits.
- Accountability: Enjoy a high level of responsibility and accountability.
- FDICIA Testing: Perform FDICIA control testing, walkthroughs with management, and branch audit procedures.
- Team Support: Support the Internal Audit team.
- Audit Testing: Responsible for performing audit testing.
- Business Communication: Frequently communicate with business owners and key executives.
- Brokerage Operations: Demonstrate aptitude to immerse within brokerage operations (FINRA).
- Data Analysis: Perform analysis on large data sets.
- Problem-Solving: Problem-solve and identify gaps or deficiencies in areas of business.
18. Internal Audit Intern Job Summary
- IT SOX Knowledge: Develop an understanding of the company's IT SOX audit approach and tools.
- Control Testing: Perform and document tests of internal controls to evaluate the effectiveness of IT internal processes.
- Documentation: Assist in the maintenance of audit documentation in AuditBoard.
- IT Audit Exposure: Gain real-world exposure to IT audits and compliance reviews.
- Deliverable Preparation: Assist in the preparation of audit deliverables to third-party auditors.
- Team Participation: Participate in team meetings along with the IT Audit team.
- Process Documentation: Document significant processes and identify risks and controls.
- Control Effectiveness: Test the effectiveness of internal controls.
- Reporting: Report test results to stakeholders.
- Stakeholder Communication: Communicate with internal and external stakeholders.
- Continuous Improvement: Participate in the team's continuous improvement program.
- Task Execution: Accomplish all related tasks.
19. Internal Audit Intern Job Description
- Audit Support: Assist with internal audits (finance and business processes) and the annual SOX programme, performing tasks such as walkthroughs of processes and testing of controls.
- Data Review: Review and analyze audit documentation and data.
- Work Paper Preparation: Own the preparation of audit work papers.
- Issue Tracking: Follow up on and track issues identified during audits.
- Audit Planning: Assist in the development of the annual internal audit plan.
- Automation: Assist in the automation of control/testing procedures.
- Risk-Based Auditing: Perform risk-based internal audits in accordance with the annual audit plan.
- Control Testing: Test the effectiveness of the internal control environment, focusing on Sarbanes-Oxley, and compliance with Company policies and procedures.
20. Internal Audit Intern Essential Functions
- SOX Testing: Assist the Internal Audit (IA) team with walkthroughs and testing of Business and IT SOX control processes with various levels of management.
- Control Evaluation: Independently perform key business processes and IT controls testing and assess their design and operating effectiveness.
- Process Improvement: Proactively look for areas to improve processes and controls within the Internal Audit team.
- Problem-Solving: Use problem-solving and critical thinking skills to quickly identify internal control deficiencies, evaluate their risk implications, and draw the appropriate conclusions to best advise Management.
- Skill Development: Develop skills related to auditing, internal controls, and accounting.
- Private Banking Auditing: Perform audit work in the Private Banking business activities under the guidance of the Internal Audit team.
- Data Analysis: Collect and analyse data/information to identify noteworthy trends or potential gaps.
- Documentation: Responsible for documenting findings clearly.
- Reporting: Communicate and report findings to internal stakeholders.
- Administrative Support: Assist in the general administration of audit engagement tasks.