The role of IT Auditor

These days every corporation needs to be running at its most efficient and effective to succeed, and a skilled and experienced IT Auditor can play a major role in this. The input of the IT Auditor can be vital in making sure the company gets the most from its networks, systems, processes, and applications, and uses that infrastructure to reach its full potential.

Duties and responsibilities - What does an IT Auditor do?

The various responsibilities of an IT Auditor can include:

• Developing and evaluating audit processes and reporting on their results
• Applying established audit standards throughout the infrastructure
• Auditing and assessing all aspects of the company’s network applications, including software, programs, security, and communications
• Monitoring the integrity of all processes, and formulating a cohesive audit strategy for now and into the future
• Setting a risk profile for projects and how they can impact on the business
• Overseeing audit processes on various user interfaces and applications, including client-based applications, intranets, extranets and all connected servers and networks

Qualities needed for a successful IT Auditor

This is a role that will only be open to those with a high degree of technical knowledge and an ability to understand the organisation’s computer infrastructure. Those who succeed in this role will have a natural curiosity and an affinity with the way networks and systems operate within a commercial enterprise. Problem solving will be second nature to them.

There will be times when the IT Auditor will need to make strong independent decisions, and others when liaising with colleagues will be required. Working well in a team environment and when alone are both necessary. Excellent communications skills are a must-have, and that includes being able to explain highly technical issues to non-technical individuals.

A proven track record in security testing and risk assessment will often help with an application. Successful candidates will also have to display a good understanding of cybersecurity issues, including knowledge of how a security threat can impact on the specific business of the relevant corporation.

Qualifications and technical skills - How to become an IT Auditor?

The majority of IT Auditor positions will only be open to candidates who possess a bachelor’s degree in one of a range of subjects, such as computer information systems, cybersecurity, computer science and information technology. There are various certifications that can also help in an application, including those of Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM).

Experience with a range of IT Auditor tools will also be a requirement. SolarWinds, Intruder, N-able RMM, OpenVAS, Nessus and Spiceworks Inventory are just some of the examples an employer might look for. It is also worth noting that successful IT Auditors will be adept at understanding the newest applications that are about to come on to the market.

Career development - What is the next step after IT Auditor?

There are plenty of possibilities for IT Auditors who are looking to progress their careers. Specialist Auditors are constantly in demand, as are Lead IT Auditors, Risk Assessment Managers, Information Systems Auditors and Senior IT Managers. The skills required for the role can also easily be transferred from one sector of industry to another.

Salary and remuneration - How much does an IT Auditor make?

IT Auditors, especially those with experience, can look forward to relatively high salary and benefits packages, as befits those who work in such an important role.