Audit Manager

At Ascend, we recognize the struggles that accounting & finance professionals face in traditional firms—from rigid hierarchies and overwhelming workloads to the elusive work-life balance. We believe your ambition should not be constrained by outdated practices or opaque career paths. Here, you're not just a number but a valued member of a community that champions both your professional and personal fulfillment. Our mission is to transform the public accounting experience into one where work-life harmony is a reality, and where your career advancement is supported by a nurturing network and robust resources. 

Backed by private equity from people-focused Alpine Investors, Ascend is building a dynamic platform for regional accounting firms that enables them to stay independent while accessing the resources of a Top 25 firm to help them grow. Ascend provides access to growth capital, robust talent acquisition and training, leading quality management resources, best-of-breed technology, AI tools, an offshore captive, shared back-office services, a catalytic leadership system, and modernized equity incentives so that firms can surmount today’s industry challenges to reach their full potential. 

For more information, visit www.ascendtogether.com.

Opsahl Dawson (ODC) is a super-regional CPA firm with four office locations throughout the Pacific Northwest (PNW). We specialize in serving the audit, internal audit and compliance needs of financial institutions in the Western United States. We are a full service firm, and also provide elite Accounting, Tax Preparation, and Bookkeeping to closely held businesses and high-net worth individuals. Our firm has 175+ people across the United States working in hybrid, remote, and fully on-site arrangements. With 35+ years of proven service, we’re the go-to CPA firm for depository and non-depository financial companies. You’ll be joining a fun team and a renowned firm that was recognized as one of 2025’s Top 10 Fastest Growing Accounting Firms by Accounting Today.

In January 2023, ODC made the strategic decision to join Ascend! With Ascend’s partnership and shared resources, ODC is well positioned for strong innovation and growth in the years to come.

Opsahl Dawson & Company (ODC) is growing, and we’re seeking an Audit Manager who is passionate about delivering exceptional client service, mentoring future leaders, and driving high-quality assurance work. Our clients span a variety of industries—credit unions and financial institutions, construction, manufacturing, nonprofit organizations, employee benefit plans, and privately held businesses.

This is an opportunity to join a collaborative, people-first culture where your ideas matter, your professional growth is supported, and you’ll work alongside one of the most experienced audit teams in the Pacific Northwest.

Client Service & Engagement Leadership

• Lead, plan, and execute financial statement audits, reviews, compilations, and specialized attestation engagements (including credit union AUPs, EBP audits, and CECL/ALM consulting-optional).
• Develop an in-depth understanding of client business operations, internal controls, and key risks to deliver meaningful insights beyond compliance.
• Manage end-to-end engagement timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
• Communicate proactively with clients and internal stakeholders to ensure a smooth engagement experience.

Team Leadership & People Development

• Supervise, mentor, train, and evaluate staff and seniors to support their technical development and career progression.
• Foster a positive team environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, ownership, and continuous learning.
• Review workpapers and deliverables to ensure compliance with professional standards and ODC quality expectations.

Technical Excellence

• Apply advanced knowledge of US GAAP, GAAS, and industry-specific accounting and auditing considerations.
• Identify complex accounting issues and provide thoughtful, well-researched recommendations.
• Maintain strong working knowledge of emerging standards, industry developments, and audit technology tools.

Firm & Process Improvement

• Contribute to department initiatives such as quality management (SQMS), process efficiency improvements, and staff training.
• Participate in business development activities as appropriate, including strengthening client relationships and identifying new service opportunities.

• CPA license (active and in good standing).
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field.
• 5+ years of recent public accounting audit experience, with demonstrated progression in responsibility.
• Strong understanding of US GAAP, GAAS, internal controls, and audit methodology.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to lead client discussions confidently.
• Strong project management, organizational abilities, and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with clients and team members.
• A positive attitude, a growth mindset, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience in one or more of ODC’s niche industries:
• Credit unions / financial institutions
• Construction
• Nonprofit organizations
• Employee benefit plans (EBP)
• Experience performing Yellow Book, Uniform Guidance, or other regulated audit engagements.
• Familiarity with ProSystem Engagement, CaseWare, or similar audit software.
• Desire to participate in firm leadership, staff development, and process-improvement initiatives.

A perceptive team-player who excels in a progressive & collaborative environment, blending sharp analytical skills with exceptional communication. A detail-oriented leader who embodies critical thinking & high standards. A proactive professional, committed to delivering outstanding service while embracing and driving curiosity & innovation. Individuals who seek to embrace the unique quality of life offered only in the PNW.

• A people-first culture that values work-life balance, teamwork, and building long-term careers.
• Exposure to specialized industries that accelerate technical growth.
• Leadership opportunities within a rapidly expanding assurance practice.
• Competitive compensation, hybrid flexibility, and robust professional development support.
• A firm that is entrepreneurial, innovative, and committed to elevating the CPA profession.

At Opsahl Dawson, we’ve designed a flexible work structure that enables both teamwork and independence, enhancing our employees’ work experience while promoting personal well-being.

This role will primarily sit out of either our Vancouver, WA or Bellevue, WA office, with hybrid flexibility.

Join our team and enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that supports well-being, health, and ongoing professional growth:

• Unlimited PTO
• Medical, Dental, Vision, & Voluntary Insurance Options
• 401(k) Matching
• Discretionary Bonus
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Flexible Scheduling Options
• Innovative Workplan System
• $500 annual Vacation Incentive
• Commitment to Professional Development
• Equity Program Eligibility at Sr. Manager Level + top performing Managers

Submit your information in the application section directly below! This will include:

• Basic contact information
• Resume/CV and optional cover letter upload
• Work eligibility and compensation
• Voluntary demographic & self-ID questions

The annual base salary range for this role is $120,000-$180,000. This range includes the anticipated low and high end of the salary range for this position. Actual compensation may vary based on various factors, including experience, education and/or skill level.

At Ascend, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Ascend hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.