PCAOB
The PCAOB (Public Company Accounting Oversight Board) is an organization that watches over audit firms who check the financial records of public companies - those companies whose stocks are traded on the stock market. Created after some big accounting scandals in the early 2000s, it's like a quality control system for auditors. Think of it as a watchdog that makes sure auditors are doing their job properly and following all the right rules when they review company financial statements. When you see PCAOB mentioned in a resume, it usually means the person has experience working with these high-level auditing standards and procedures.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted audits in accordance with PCAOB standards for Fortune 500 clients
Led team training sessions on PCAOB compliance requirements and updates
Managed multiple PCAOB-regulated audit engagements for publicly traded companies
Typical job title: "PCAOB Auditors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find PCAOB Auditors
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a disagreement with management about a significant audit finding?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership skills, professional judgment, and knowledge of proper escalation procedures while maintaining professional skepticism and independence.
Q: What changes have you seen in PCAOB standards over the years and how have you adapted?
Expected Answer: Should show understanding of major regulatory changes, ability to stay current with standards, and experience implementing new requirements in audit procedures.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Can you explain the difference between PCAOB audits and non-PCAOB audits?
Expected Answer: Should explain that PCAOB audits are more rigorous, require additional documentation, and follow specific standards for public companies versus private company audits.
Q: What are the key components of audit documentation under PCAOB standards?
Expected Answer: Should discuss the importance of detailed work papers, evidence collection, review procedures, and maintaining proper documentation trails.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the PCAOB?
Expected Answer: Should explain that PCAOB oversees audits of public companies to protect investors and ensure accurate financial reporting.
Q: What's the difference between a public and private company audit?
Expected Answer: Should understand that public company audits follow PCAOB standards and have stricter requirements due to investor protection needs.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of PCAOB standards
- Assisting in audit procedures
- Documentation preparation
- Team collaboration
Mid (2-5 years)
- Leading smaller audit engagements
- Detailed knowledge of PCAOB requirements
- Risk assessment
- Client communication
Senior (5+ years)
- Managing large audit teams
- Advanced regulatory knowledge
- Quality control oversight
- Strategic planning of audit engagements
Red Flags to Watch For
- No CPA license or progress toward getting one
- No experience with public company audits
- Lack of understanding of independence requirements
- Poor documentation practices
Related Terms
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