Government Facilities Auditor in Maryland Career Overview

As a Government Facilities Auditor, you play a vital role in ensuring compliance and efficiency within public facilities. Your work involves evaluating various aspects of government properties to ensure they meet regulatory standards and operational requirements. This role is essential for maintaining transparency and accountability in the use of public resources.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Assessing building operations, safety protocols, and maintenance practices to ensure adherence to local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Conducting on-site inspections and audits to verify that facilities meet the established standards for safety, accessibility, and functionality.
  • Analyzing documentation related to facilities management, including maintenance logs, safety reports, and expenditure records.
  • Collaborating with government agencies to provide recommendations for improvements and to ensure that facilities are effectively serving the public.

Your contributions help to promote the responsible use of taxpayer funds and enhance the quality of services offered to the community, making your role integral to the overarching mission of government agencies. By identifying areas for improvement and ensuring compliance with regulations, you support the sustainability and safety of government facilities, fostering public trust and enhancing operational effectiveness.

Government Facilities Auditor Salary in Maryland

Annual Median: $82,400
Hourly Median: $39.62

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Government Facilities Auditor in Maryland

To pursue a career as a Government Facilities Auditor, you typically need an educational background that meets the requirements of the role. Here are the relevant degree programs that can prepare you for this field:

  • Accounting: A bachelor’s degree in accounting provides a strong foundation in financial principles, auditing procedures, and regulatory compliance, which are essential for performing audits in government facilities.

  • Auditing: A degree in auditing focuses specifically on the methodologies and practices used in examining financial statements and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. This degree directly aligns with the responsibilities of a facilities auditor.

  • Compliance Law: A degree in compliance law equips you with knowledge of legal frameworks and regulations that govern governmental operations. Understanding these legalities is critical in ensuring that government facilities are in compliance with all applicable laws.

  • Criminal Justice and Corrections: This program offers insight into the workings of the criminal justice system, which can be beneficial for understanding security and compliance issues within government facilities, especially those that relate to corrections facilities.

  • Risk Management: A degree in risk management focuses on identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks that organizations face. This knowledge is applicable to government facilities auditing, where evaluating operational risks is a key component of the role.

These educational qualifications lay the groundwork for a successful career as a Government Facilities Auditor by providing you with the necessary expertise in finance, compliance, and risk assessment.

Best Schools to become a Government Facilities Auditor in Maryland 2024

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY

In-State Tuition:$6,930
Out-of-State Tuition:$14,880
Admission Rate:51%
Graduation Rate:54%
Total Enrollment:13,921

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$9,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:88,891

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709

Rio Salado College

Tempe, AZ

In-State Tuition:$2,040
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,824
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:10%
Total Enrollment:17,078
Government Facilities Auditor Job Description:
  • Investigate or inspect government property to ensure compliance with contract agreements and government regulations.

Government Facilities Auditor Required Skills and Competencies in Maryland

  • Analytical Thinking: You should possess the ability to evaluate complex data and documents critically. Strong analytical skills enable you to identify discrepancies, trends, and potential areas of improvement within government facilities.

  • Attention to Detail: A meticulous nature is essential; you're responsible for examining facilities and processes thoroughly. This attention to detail helps to ensure compliance with regulations and standards.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with various auditing software and tools is necessary. You should be comfortable using these technologies for data collection, report generation, and analysis.

  • Knowledge of Regulatory Frameworks: Understanding federal, state, and local regulations that govern government facilities is vital. This knowledge allows you to assess compliance accurately and provide recommendations.

  • Communication Skills: You must be able to articulate findings clearly and concisely, both in writing and verbally. Effective communication is important for presenting reports to stakeholders and facilitating discussions.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Building strong relationships with facility managers and staff can enhance the audit process. You should approach interactions with professionalism and sensitivity.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: You will face various challenges during your audits. The ability to develop practical solutions and implement improvements is key to the role.

  • Organizational Skills: Managing multiple audits and deadlines requires excellent organizational capabilities. You should be adept at prioritizing tasks and keeping detailed records.

  • Time Management: You must efficiently manage your time to meet auditing deadlines while maintaining high-quality work standards.

  • Ethical Judgment: High ethical standards are critical when handling sensitive information. Integrity and discretion are necessary to maintain trust and credibility in your role.

Job Duties for Government Facilities Auditors

  • Examine records, reports, or other documents to establish facts or detect discrepancies.

  • Inspect government property, such as construction sites or public housing, to ensure compliance with contract specifications or legal requirements.

  • Prepare correspondence, reports of inspections or investigations, or recommendations for action.

Technologies and Skills Used by Government Facilities Auditors

Data base user interface and query software

  • Database software
  • Microsoft Access

Inventory management software

  • Inventory control system software
  • Plant Clearance Automated Reutilization Screening System PCARSS

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Reading work related information

People and Technology Systems

  • Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Government Facilities Auditor in Maryland

  • The demand for Government Facilities Auditors in Maryland is influenced by the state’s significant investment in public infrastructure and government facilities. As a hub for federal agencies and military installations, Maryland presents numerous opportunities for professionals in this field.

  • Post-pandemic, there is an increased focus on efficiency, compliance, and sustainability within government facilities. This shift has led to a greater need for auditors who can evaluate and improve facility operations, ensuring they meet regulatory standards and operational effectiveness.

  • The growth potential for this career is notable, particularly in government contracting environments. With the rise of transparency initiatives and fiscal accountability, agencies are prioritizing audits to identify areas for improvement and achieve cost savings.

  • Geographical hotspots in Maryland include:

    • Washington, D.C. Metro Area: This area remains a prime location due to its high concentration of federal agencies and contractors, creating a consistent demand for qualified auditors.
    • Annapolis: As the state capital, Annapolis offers opportunities with state government agencies, where audits are crucial for maintaining accountability and oversight.
    • Baltimore: In addition to local government jobs, Baltimore hosts various non-profit organizations and educational institutions that require auditing services for their facilities.
  • Specific sectors that show promising growth include environmental audits, energy efficiency evaluations, and security assessments, driven by emerging federal and state regulations aimed at sustainable and secure facility operations.

  • Networking within professional organizations such as the Association of Government Accountants (AGA) and attending relevant conferences can enhance your visibility and open doors to various job opportunities in Maryland.

  • Collaborating with local universities and training institutions can also provide pathways into the field, particularly as these partnerships often lead to internships and practical experiences that can precede full-time positions.

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Government Facilities Auditor in Maryland

  • National Association of State Facilities Auditors (NASFA)
    Website: www.nasfa.org
    Overview: This organization focuses on best practices, training, and development for state facilities auditors. Explore resources, networking opportunities, and industry news.

  • Association of Government Accountants (AGA)
    Website: www.agacgfm.org
    Overview: AGA supports auditors, including those in government facilities, with professional development, certification programs, and resources relevant to government financial management.

  • Government Accountability Office (GAO)
    Website: www.gao.gov
    Overview: This organization provides reports and tools related to government auditing processes and standards, serving as a valuable resource for best practices.

  • Maryland Board of Public Works
    Website: bpw.maryland.gov
    Overview: This site features resources and information about the auditing processes and regulations specific to Maryland state government facilities.

  • Federal Facilities Council (FFC)
    Website: www.nationalacademies.org
    Overview: The FFC offers valuable information on the management of federal facilities, including guidance on auditing and oversight.

  • Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
    Website: www.theiia.org
    Overview: The IIA provides certifications, resources, and frameworks that are beneficial for auditors in various sectors, including public facilities.

  • U.S. Department of Energy: Facility Audit Guidance
    Website: www.energy.gov/management/facility-audit-guidance
    Overview: This guidance outlines auditing techniques and standards related to energy efficiency in federal facilities, vital for facilities auditors.

  • Maryland Department of Budget and Management
    Website: dbm.maryland.gov
    Overview: The department provides resources and information regarding state audits, budget assessments, and management practices applicable in Maryland.

  • American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE)
    Website: www.ashe.org
    Overview: ASHE focuses on healthcare facility management, and its resources can be useful for auditors focused on standards and compliance within healthcare environments.

  • Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA)
    Website: www.boma.org
    Overview: BOMA offers insights into building management, including parameters for auditing and compliance that can support your understanding of facility operations.

These resources will provide you with valuable information and tools relevant to advancing your career as a Government Facilities Auditor in Maryland.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Government Facilities Auditor in Maryland

  • What does a Government Facilities Auditor do?
    A Government Facilities Auditor evaluates government facilities to ensure compliance with various regulations, guidelines, and standards. This includes assessing operational efficiency, safety protocols, and financial expenditures related to facility management.

  • What qualifications are needed to become a Government Facilities Auditor?
    Typically, a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, engineering, architecture, or a related field is required. Relevant certifications, such as Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP), can enhance your qualifications.

  • Is prior experience necessary for this role?
    While some positions may require prior experience in auditing or facility management, entry-level roles may be available for recent graduates or those transitioning from related fields.

  • What skills are essential for a Government Facilities Auditor?
    Key skills include critical thinking, attention to detail, communication, analytical abilities, and proficiency in relevant software tools. Familiarity with auditing standards and regulations is also important.

  • Where can Government Facilities Auditors find employment?
    Auditors can work for federal, state, or local government agencies, as well as private firms that provide auditing services to government entities. Opportunities may also exist in non-profit organizations that deal with government projects.

  • What is the salary range for Government Facilities Auditors in Maryland?
    Salaries can vary based on experience, education, and the specific agency or organization. As of 2023, the average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $90,000 per year, with potential for higher earnings in senior positions.

  • What are the career advancement opportunities for Government Facilities Auditors?
    With experience and additional qualifications, you can advance to managerial or director-level positions within auditing departments. Some may also transition to compliance roles, risk management, or specialized governmental audit sectors.

  • What is the job outlook for Government Facilities Auditors?
    The demand for Government Facilities Auditors is expected to grow, driven by increasing regulations and a focus on accountability in government spending. This trend reflects an ongoing need for skilled professionals in the field.

  • What are the typical working hours for a Government Facilities Auditor?
    Most auditors work full-time, typically during standard business hours. However, the schedule may require flexibility, especially when meeting deadlines for audits or reports.

  • Are there opportunities for remote work in this field?
    While some aspects of auditing can be done remotely, many positions require on-site inspections and evaluations. Hybrid models may be available depending on the employer and specific project needs.

  • What professional development resources are available for Government Facilities Auditors?
    Several professional organizations provide training, certification, and networking opportunities. Consider joining associations like the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) or the Association of Government Accountants (AGA) for resources and professional growth.