Internal Auditor

Job Description – Internal Auditor

Organization: Dakota Economic Development Corporation (DEDC)
Reports To: Director of Compliance
Location: Hybrid/Remote as applicable
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Internal Auditor serves as an independent assurance function within the Dakota Economic Development Corporation (DEDC) to evaluate and strengthen the organization’s internal controls, risk management, and compliance framework. Reporting directly to the Director of Compliance, this role performs audits, assessments, and reviews across all operational and financial functions to ensure compliance with Tribal law, applicable federal regulations, and internal policy standards.

The Internal Auditor helps protect the integrity of DEDC’s financial & compliance systems, reinforces its governance framework, and supports continuous improvement efforts through transparency, accountability, and alignment with DEDC’s mission to uphold Tribal sovereignty and economic sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

1.) Audit Planning & Execution

• Develop and execute a quarterly and annual risk-based internal audit plan in coordination with the Director of Compliance.
• Conduct operational, financial, and compliance audits to evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls.
• Identify systemic risks, inefficiencies, or areas of non-compliance impacting DEDC’s programs and lending operations.
• Ensure adherence to internal audit standards and maintain detailed working papers and testing documentation.

2.) Risk Assessment & Internal Controls

• Evaluate enterprise-wide risk exposure and assist management in developing action plans to mitigate priority risks.
• Assess the integrity of financial statements, reporting processes, and system security controls.
• Test compliance with consumer protection laws (TILA, ECOA, FCRA, GLBA) and internal policies.
• Recommend improvements to enhance accountability, transparency, and operational efficiency.

3.) Compliance Support & Coordination

• Collaborate with the Director of Compliance to ensure all business functions adhere to Tribal laws, applicable federal standards, and DEDC policy frameworks.
• Support compliance monitoring and internal review initiatives related to vendor oversight, data protection, and governance.
• Conduct follow-up audits to verify implementation of corrective actions.

4.) Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare professional audit reports for the Director of Compliance and executive management, summarizing findings, impacts, and recommendations.
• Present audit results in a clear and actionable manner that supports strategic and operational decision-making.
• Maintain tracking of open audit findings and support management in timely resolution.

5.) Continuous Improvement & Capacity Building

• Promote awareness of audit principles and risk management practices throughout the organization.
• Support development of new policies, procedures, and internal standards that enhance DEDC’s accountability and governance capacity.
• Participate in compliance and training initiatives to strengthen Tribal oversight and operational self-sufficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; Master’s or certification (CIA, CPA, or CISA) preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in internal auditing, risk management, or financial or compliance oversight roles.
• Knowledge of internal audit standards, governance practices, and compliance frameworks.
• Experience auditing consumer financial services, Tribal enterprises, or regulated industries preferred.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and investigative skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and audit or data analysis software.
• Ability to synthesize complex information and communicate clearly in both written and verbal formats.
• Demonstrated integrity, discretion, and independence in the performance of audit functions.

Core Competencies

• Audit Planning & Risk Assessment
• Compliance & Regulatory Insight
• Internal Controls & Operational Evaluation
• Financial Analysis & Data Integrity
• Reporting & Stakeholder Communication
• Ethical Judgment & Confidentiality
• Continuous Process Improvement
• Tribal Governance & Sovereignty Awareness
• Collaboration & Professional Accountability

Work Environment & Travel

• Hybrid or remote work model, depending on location.
• Occasional travel required for on-site audits, reviews, or training sessions.

Salary

Salary is commensurate with experience, and offers will be competitive based on qualifications and industry standards, with comprehensive benefits including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Retirement savings options.

Tribal Preference Policy

In accordance with DEDC policy, Tribal Preference applies to this position:

Preference applies to hiring, promotion, training, and layoffs if candidates meet minimum qualifications. Among equally qualified candidates, the most suitable in the preference category will be selected.