Information Technology Auditor, Associate or Senior

We are looking for technology-oriented people to join our team of information technology auditors working to improve information security and technology operations within state government. Information technology audits are designed to help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the states IT systems and to assess compliance with IT industry standards. Information technology auditors do not need to have strong technical expertise in specific systems or technologies but they do need to be analytical inquisitive and interested in the role of technology in government policy and operations.

Information technology auditors examine various aspects of state computer systems and technologies to identify areas of potential risk that could negatively impact operations. Information technology audit assignments address diverse topics ranging from system controls data integrity information security project management and IT governance. These assignments offer staff continuing variety challenging and meaningful work and opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

Information technology auditors perform analysis of operations and data interpret and apply various industry standards and make recommendations to state agencies to improve operations. Auditors document their analysis and findings in audit workpapers compose summaries and conclusions for their work write reports and present results to agency personnel and legislative committees. Specific tasks can include:

Assessing the risks to various state programs and systems and evaluating the controls in place to mitigate those risks

Conducting individual and group interviews with state agencies

Analyzing agency technology policies and practices

Extracting and examining database information

Evaluating information technology controls

Conducting automated systems testing

Analyzing compliance with associated laws rules policies industry standards and relevant best practices

Actively pursue certifications and continuing professional education in line with the divisions needs and personal career development.

Associate Information Technology Auditor: 0-3 years of relevant experience; starting minimum salary $69918

*Senior Information Technology Auditor: 2-5 years of relevant experience; starting minimum salary $81310

*To be considered for entry as Senior the applicant MUST have a minimum of 2 years direct work experience as a information security analyst information systems/technology auditor or demonstrably equivalent position. Education or related (but not direct) work experience WILL NOT be substituted for the direct auditing work experience for Senior-level consideration. Direct experience in information security or auditing is preferred.

These positions provide an opportunity for salary adjustments and career advancement based on merit. We offer flexible work schedules with an option for up to 24 hours of telework a week. (However the candidate must live in Helena or the immediate area as this position is not fulltime remote.) Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. A comprehensive benefits package is also offered including a state contribution of more than $12000/year for health life dental and optional vision insurance; contribution to a retirement fund; and paid vacation and sick leave.

The Legislative Audit Division is an independent nonpolitical nonpartisan audit organization in the legislative branch of Montana state government. Directed by the Legislative Auditor the office is responsible for auditing information systems governance and technology of state executive and judicial branch programs in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. The office is also responsible for conducting management and program analysis and financial audits.

Please provide the following items with your application:

1. Cover Letter

2. Resume

3. References

Provide the name and contact information for three professional references. Note that we will not contact references until after the interview process.

The office evaluates application materials and based on qualifications selects applicants for further consideration. Qualified applicants will be asked to participate in an initial online interview that includes a 24-hour period to provide a written essay question. If criteria is met the candidate will move on to a structured in-person interview which includes a case study. This position requires periodic travel and overtime. Staff must possess a valid drivers license. A criminal records background check and official transcripts will be required as a condition of employment. If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months the same applicant pool may be used for the selection. Please direct specific questions about the position to Miki Cestnik at

The use of AI throughout all phases of the recruiting process is monitored and use of AI should be noted by the applicant.

We are looking for individuals skilled in the following areas: analytical thinking and problem solving gathering and analyzing information to formulate and support decisions and opinions clear articulation in communication and presentation skills establishing and maintaining effective working relationships successful conflict resolution and self-initiative and self-motivation. Applicants should possess the ability and work ethic to function well independently but also work effectively as part of an audit team. They should also have a strong interest in learning about state government. We are recruiting Information Technology Auditors at the Associate and Senior levels; experience at hiring determines initial placement and salary. An applicant typically gains the knowledge and abilities required for this position through a bachelors degree in information systems computer science public administration mathematics business management or related field. However a relevant two-year technical degree in a discipline related to information technology will also be considered and is the minimum educational attainment required for this position. Relevant combinations of education and/or experience will be considered. Applicants with course work and/or relevant work experience in information systems auditing analysis of IT control frameworks use of data analysis software quantitative analysis management and development of information systems and information security will be given more consideration. A completed two-year degree is required by 7/1/2025.