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Explore: First year Audit Trainee
Brief description of the role
Key responsibilities and day to day tasks of the job
As a First Year Audit Trainee, I assist the audit team in reviewing clients’ financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance with accounting standards. On a daily basis, I help collect and verify financial documents, check for discrepancies, and support senior auditors during fieldwork at client sites. I am involved in testing internal controls, performing basic analytical procedures, and preparing working papers to document audit findings.
I participate in team meetings to discuss audit progress and challenges, gaining insight into different industries and business operations. Throughout my internship, I develop skills in using accounting software and audit tools, and I learn how to apply auditing principles in real-world scenarios. Additionally, I support administrative tasks such as organizing files and maintaining audit documentation, which helps keep the process efficient and compliant with professional standards.
Skills most important for success in this role
-High ethical standards are crucial in the audit profession.
-Essential for writing clear audit findings, reporting to managers, and interacting with clients.
-You’ll often juggle multiple audit engagements with strict deadlines.
-Auditing requires spotting small errors and inconsistencies in financial data
-Ability to assess financial statements, identify risks, and evaluate controls.
School subjects / tertiary courses / required certificates
Please note, even if you do not do these subjects in high school, you can still get admission into an accounting degree in a tertiary institution, however they are recommended for smoother transition into said degree in tertiary.
Accounting – Essential for understanding financial statements and bookkeeping principles.
Mathematics – Important for calculations, data analysis, and problem-solving.
Economics – Helps with understanding business environments and financial markets.
Business Studies – Provides background on how companies operate and manage resources.
English – Crucial for clear communication and report writing.
Tertiary
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounting or Auditing, Diploma in Accounting or Auditing, Bachelor of Accounting Science (BAccSci), Postgraduate Certificate in Auditing
Another note, if you are going the SAICA route then be sure to make sure the course you are doing and the institution are SAICA accredited
Kind of work environment (e.g Office based, remote, fieldwork etc)
The work environment is a mix of office-based and on-site fieldwork. When working in the office, I assist with preparing audit files, analyzing financial data, and meeting with the audit team to plan and review engagements. During audit season or active engagements, I often work at client premises, which gives me the opportunity to interact with finance teams, access records directly, and observe how different businesses operate. The role involves working in a professional, fast-paced setting with tight deadlines, especially during reporting periods. While some documentation or communication may happen digitally, the role is not remote—being physically present either in the office or at the client site is a key part of the audit process.
Potential career progression opportunities in the field
-Second-Year and Senior Audit Trainee:
As you progress, you’ll take on more responsibility — leading sections of audits, mentoring junior trainees, and handling more complex client work.
-Audit Supervisor / Team Leader:
After completing your articles or training contract, you may be promoted to a supervisor role, managing entire audit engagements and liaising with clients directly.
-Audit Manager:
Overseeing multiple client portfolios, managing audit teams, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and developing client relationships.
-Senior Manager / Director:
In charge of large accounts or industry segments, helping to grow the firm’s audit practice, providing strategic leadership.
-Partner:
Becoming a partner at an audit firm — responsible for signing audit reports, bringing in new business, and guiding the firm’s direction.
Career Switches (post articles):
Many qualified auditors move into:
^Financial Management
^Internal Audit
^Forensic Auditing
^Risk Management
^Corporate Finance
^Government or Public Sector Finance Roles
^Entrepreneurship (opening their own firm)
Are there any internships, work experience or volunteer opportunities that would help gain exerience in this field
Yes, audit firms will usually have university learners do vacation work around vacation time, i.e in January and in June / July, be on the look out for that