IT auditor

What does an IT auditor do? – Tasks and work environment

An IT auditor reviews and evaluates organizations' IT systems, processes, and internal controls to ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and internal information security requirements. The work includes analyzing IT infrastructure, process mapping, risk assessments, and reporting deviations. IT auditors often work closely with finance and IT departments, but also with external consultants and management teams. The work environment is usually office-based but may include travel for audits at different workplaces. The profession requires great attention to detail, analytical ability, and integrity.

Salary development over time

The salary of IT auditors has shown a steady upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,800 SEK per month, which increased to 48 200 in 2023 and further to 50 300 in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 5.2% over three years. The driving factors behind salary growth include increasing demand for specialized IT skills and a growing need for regulatory compliance in digital environments. Salary development is also influenced by more companies investing in cybersecurity and auditors with an IT focus becoming more sought after in the job market. Compared to other auditing professions, the salary level for IT auditors is generally higher, reflecting their technical specialization and expanding responsibilities.

IT auditor salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 50 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 39,500 SEK/month (women), 41,600 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 56,300 SEK/month (men), 50,200 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly rate: 303 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 89% of what men do (48 100 SEK/month vs 54 000 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Data is lacking, but salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as an IT auditor, a university degree in economics, systems science, or computer science is usually required, often supplemented with courses in auditing and information security. Many employers also value certifications in IT auditing and practical auditing experience. Internships and trainee programs are common at larger auditing firms, and there are opportunities to further specialize through additional education and self-study.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's degree in economics, systems science, or computer science (3 years)
• Certifications: CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor), CISSP, or similar
• Internship/trainee: Common at larger auditing firms
• Prerequisites: Good IT skills and understanding of business processes
• Self-study/online: Many supplement with online courses in cybersecurity and auditing

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for IT auditors include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work. Many employers also offer skills development, internal training, and sometimes bonuses linked to performance or project results.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as an IT auditor is moderate to high, especially in metropolitan regions where demand for specialized IT skills is significant. At the same time, there is a shortage of experienced candidates with both technical and auditing backgrounds, making recruitment challenging. The profession requires continuous skills development, as technical solutions and regulations change rapidly. Challenges also include managing complex IT environments and communicating advanced technical risks to non-technical decision-makers. Maintaining objectivity and integrity is crucial, especially in situations where business interests may conflict with the audit assignment.

Tips for aspiring IT auditors

To succeed as an IT auditor, it is beneficial to combine meticulousness with analytical skills and a strong desire to understand both technology and business processes. Building broad IT knowledge early and supplementing with courses in auditing and information security is recommended. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with both technical specialists and management, and integrity and objectivity are essential qualities. Practical experience, such as internships or trainee programs, provides valuable insights into the daily work and challenges. A passion for continuous learning helps stay updated on new regulations and technologies. Finally, networking within the industry can provide mentorship and career opportunities.

Key facts about IT auditors

• Educational level: Bachelor's degree in economics or IT, often supplemented with certifications
• Work environment: Office-based, sometimes travel and remote work
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Typical employment: Full-time, often employed at auditing firms or larger companies
• Special skills: IT security, risk management, business processes

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities open for advancement to senior IT auditor, IT audit manager, or specialized advisor in information security and risk management. Some choose to work as consultants or start their own business. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service show that opportunities for employment as an IT auditor within the auditing group are large and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Despite high demand, recruitment difficulties exist, as many leave the profession and technical requirements increase. A total of 758 job openings were reported in the latest survey, indicating good future prospects for those specializing in IT auditing.

Common questions about IT auditors

• What does an IT auditor earn?
  - An IT auditor has an average salary of 50 300 SEK per month. The hourly rate is 303 SEK.
• What education is required to become an IT auditor?
  - Usually a bachelor's degree in economics or IT plus certifications like CISA.
• Are there gender differences in salary for IT auditors?
  - Yes, women earn on average 89% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the future prospects for IT auditors?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful and expected to remain stable over the next five years.
• Who are the most common employers?
  - Larger auditing firms, banks, consulting companies, and larger companies with in-house IT departments.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an IT auditor?
  - The highest salary is 56,300 SEK per month (men), and the lowest is 39,500 SEK per month (women).
• What personal qualities are important for an IT auditor?
  - Analytical ability, accuracy, integrity, and good communication skills.