Senior Internal Auditor II

Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (Kenya-AIST) is seeking a highly skilled Senior Internal Auditor II to join its Internal Audit and Risk Management team in Nairobi. This role is ideal for professionals exploring internal audit opportunities at Kenya-AIST or senior auditor jobs in Kenya who are passionate about strengthening institutional financial governance and compliance.

Key Job Information

• Position: Senior Internal Auditor II
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Full-time, Contract
• Experience Level: Senior (Grade 7)
• Application Deadline: 22nd December, 2025

About Kenya-AIST

Kenya-AIST is a leading national institution committed to advancing scientific research, innovation, and technological development. The Institute operates under a robust governance framework requiring meticulous internal audit, risk management, and compliance oversight. Kenya-AIST values transparency, accountability, and operational excellence in all financial and administrative processes.

The Institute fosters a collaborative work environment that promotes professional development, learning, and career growth. Employees gain exposure to high-impact auditing and governance initiatives while contributing to a culture of integrity and institutional effectiveness. Kenya-AIST is also committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring a supportive and inclusive workplace.

Job Description

The Senior Internal Auditor II plays a critical role in safeguarding Kenya-AIST’s financial integrity by conducting comprehensive audits, risk assessments, and compliance reviews. The officer ensures internal controls are adequate, identifies areas for process improvement, and supports management decision-making through detailed reporting and recommendations. This position reports to the Head of Internal Audit and works closely with finance, operations, and compliance teams to strengthen governance systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze financial records, systems, and processes to identify risks and inefficiencies.
• Conduct comprehensive audits across departments and programs.
• Undertake stocktaking, risk assessments, corruption risk assessments, and anti-corruption awareness initiatives.
• Review and evaluate internal controls, recommending improvements where necessary.
• Carry out audit checks, identify accounting errors, and perform spot-checks and cash surveys.
• Conduct audit investigations and follow-up on the implementation of audit recommendations.
• Assess compliance with internal policies, tax regulations, and statutory guidelines.
• Implement quality assurance and continuous improvement programs within the audit function.
• Consolidate primary audit reports and queries on the Institute’s financial statements.
• Perform compliance tests and monitor evaluation of audit reports.
• Provide insights and recommendations to management to enhance operational and financial efficiency.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Commerce, Economics, Business Administration, Business Management, or equivalent from a recognized institution.
• Certificate in Part III of the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or Part III of the Certified Public Accountants (CPA) Examination.
• At least eight (8) years of relevant work experience, including three (3) years in a comparable grade or position.
• Membership in the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) or other relevant professional body in good standing.
• Strong knowledge of ERP software, with relevant certification (e.g., Microsoft Certified: Dynamics 365 Business Central Functional Consultant Associate).
• Proficiency in SQL, database management, and programming languages relevant to ERP customization.
• Awareness of data protection laws is an added advantage.
• Demonstrated merit and ability as reflected in work performance and results.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in public sector or higher education internal audit functions.
• Strong analytical, investigative, and reporting skills.
• Proven ability to develop and implement audit plans and risk mitigation strategies.
• Experience in evaluating and improving internal control systems within ERP environments.

Benefits and Compensation

Kenya-AIST offers a competitive remuneration package for Grade 7 roles, with opportunities for professional development, skill enhancement, and exposure to high-impact auditing projects. Employees also benefit from mentorship programs, collaborative work culture, and career growth pathways within a leading scientific and technological research institution.

How to Apply

Interested candidates seeking Senior Internal Auditor opportunities in Nairobi or internal audit positions at Kenya-AIST should submit their applications through the Kenya-AIST online recruitment portal: https://recruitment.kenya-aist.ac.ke/. Each application must include:

• Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Copies of academic and professional certificates
• National ID or passport
• Two letters of reference, including one from a former supervisor
• Other relevant supporting documents

Shortlisted candidates will be required to provide clearance from:

• Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)
• Higher Education Loans Board (HELB)
• Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC)
• Criminal Investigation Department (CID) – Certificate of Good Conduct

Applications must be submitted on or before 22nd December, 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Kenya-AIST is an equal opportunity employer committed to implementing Article 232(i) of the Constitution.

This role is ideal for professionals seeking Senior Internal Auditor II vacancies in Nairobi or internal audit career opportunities in Kenya with exposure to financial governance, risk management, and institutional compliance.