Job Description Template: Auditor

This template helps Swiss employers write a clear auditor job description. It outlines the role's core activities, lists must-have and nice-to-have skills, and shows how to structure a competitive offer—including Pensum percentage, location by canton, and language expectations.

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An auditor reviews financial records, internal controls, and compliance to ensure accuracy and risk management. Use this template to attract candidates with strong analytical skills and regulatory knowledge.

Adapt the sections below to match your company's size, industry, and audit scope. Remember to name the canton or city, state the Pensum as a percentage, and be explicit about language requirements—especially for roles in multilingual Swiss regions.

What the Role Does

The auditor conducts internal and/or external audits of financial statements, operational processes, and compliance frameworks. They identify risks, recommend improvements, and document findings in professional reports.

This role requires both technical rigour and the ability to communicate complex findings to non-specialist stakeholders. Auditors typically work with finance teams, management, and board members.

  • Examine financial records and supporting documentation
  • Test internal controls and assess their effectiveness
  • Verify compliance with legal, regulatory, and company policy requirements
  • Identify risks and recommend corrective actions
  • Prepare audit reports and present findings to management
  • Support external auditors during statutory audits

Must-Have Requirements

Look for candidates with formal accounting or auditing qualifications and hands-on audit experience. They should understand Swiss financial reporting standards and be comfortable working with audit software.

Strong attention to detail, logical thinking, and written communication are essential. The ability to work independently while meeting tight deadlines is non-negotiable.

  • Diploma in accounting, auditing, or finance (or equivalent experience)
  • Minimum 2–3 years' audit experience in a similar role
  • Proficiency with Excel and audit management tools
  • Knowledge of Swiss financial reporting rules (HRM, MRVG, or equivalent)
  • Fluent in the local language (specify German, French, Italian, or Romansh as required)
  • Swiss work permit or EU/EFTA citizenship (where applicable)

Nice-to-Have Requirements

Candidates with professional certifications—such as CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) or ACCA—stand out. Prior experience in your industry or with specific audit standards adds value.

Multilingual ability is a plus in mixed-language cantons. Experience with ERP systems or process automation strengthens candidates for modern audit environments.

  • Professional auditing certification (CIA, ACCA, CPA, or equivalent)
  • Familiarity with your industry's regulatory environment
  • Experience with ERP systems (SAP, NetSuite, etc.)
  • Knowledge of data analytics or audit automation tools
  • Working fluency in a second Swiss language
  • Exposure to fraud risk assessment or forensic auditing

What We Offer

Structure your offer clearly: state the Pensum (e.g., 80–100%), annual base salary in CHF, and any variable components. Include details about benefits, development, and working conditions.

Be transparent about employment type (permanent, fixed-term), holiday entitlement (typically 20–25 days in Switzerland), and whether a 13. Monatslohn (13th-month salary) is included. Mention professional development opportunities and team culture.

  • Pensum: [80–100%] | Base salary: CHF [amount] per annum
  • Permanent position | Holiday: [20–25] days + public holidays
  • [13. Monatslohn / variable bonus / profit sharing — if applicable]
  • Health and accident insurance [specify if employer covers full cost]
  • Professional development budget or training support (e.g., exam fees)
  • Flexible working arrangements or remote-work policy [if offered]

Frequently asked questions

Should I specify a language requirement in the job description?
Yes. Name the required language(s) explicitly—e.g., 'German (fluent), English (working level)'. In bilingual cantons like Bern or Fribourg, state which language is primary for the role. This prevents mismatches and ensures candidates can understand audit documentation and communicate with stakeholders.
What Pensum should I advertise?
State the Pensum as a percentage—typically 80–100% for full-time audit roles. If flexible, offer a range (e.g., 80–100%) to attract candidates unable to commit full-time. Be clear whether it is negotiable.
How do I make the compensation section competitive?
Research local audit salary bands via salary surveys (Lohnbuch, Michael Page, etc.). Include the base, clarify whether a 13. Monatslohn is standard in your role, and mention non-monetary benefits (training budget, flexibility, home-office policy). Transparency builds trust and reduces time-to-hire.

General information for Swiss employers, not legal advice. Have a lawyer confirm anything with legal consequences.

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